Keith Jarrett

 

The Art of Improvisation - A Documentary About Keith Jarrett                            Directed by Michael Dibb/Written by Ian Carr (2005)                                         Running Time: 1 Hr. 25 Min.

I stumbled upon a used DVD copy of this illuminating and comprehensive documentary about Keith Jarrett which was largely written (and with interviews conducted) by the late musician/author Ian Carr who had written the excellent 1991 biography [Click on 'See More' to continue] about the pianist, titled 'Keith Jarrett: The Man and His Music'.

Carr provides some very insightful discussions with Jarrett who is always self-effacing and incredibly self-critical. One could see how his inner drive and intensity, even back in 2005, had already taken a physical and emotional toll on his health. The documentary is filled with great film clips from all points in his career -- including live footage with Charles Lloyd, Miles Davis, and in a classical piano duo configuration with Chick Corea (performing Mozart). Also, Keith's brother, guitarist Scott Jarrett, offers honest assessments of his brother's personality and contributions.

There is much ECM-related content here via on-screen interviews with the Standards Trio, Gary Burton, and members of both the American and European quartets. One aspect of Jarrett that is rarely explored on film is his acumen on other instruments: in this documentary, there is substantial footage of Jarrett playing and discussing his approach to the soprano saxophone as well as segments of him playing percussion and discussing his lesser-known recordings such as 'Spirits'.

Even though many people, here, have commented on his surly temperament, you can't come away from viewing this film without great admiration for the musician. Highly recommended!