This Ain't No Viola Joke
Abstract
While jazz violin and cello have garnered increased attention in recent scholarship, jazz violists remain significantly overlooked in research and music history. Contrary to misconceptions about the scarcity of accomplished jazz violists, recordings since the 1960s showcase proficient violists excelling in a spectrum of styles, including swing, Latin-influenced, bebop, blues, and avant-garde improvisation. Jazz violists such as Harry Lookofsky, Leroy Jenkins, Jimbo Ross, Irene Sazer, Kartrina Wreede, Danny Seidenberg, Keith Barry, Mat Maneri, and Jim Nolet have made noteworthy contributions.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Musicology and Musical Analysis
Music History and Culture
Diverse Music Education Insights
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 55–64
- Publication date
- 12 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter