His discussion of the Metheny material was most interesting to me. One thing that this revealed is what an accomplished musician Jason is. I was thinking in particular of an interview I read with PMG bass player Steve Rodby who referred to classical musicians as little more than secretaries who are more like typists than musicians. He was trying to make a point that Jazz musicians have so much more to learn and playing Jazz is much more demanding (at least that’s what I think he was trying to say). Well after hearing Jason discuss his early listening habits and his ear training (which apparently involved extensive dictation and transcribing), I think we can lay this criticism of Rodby’s to rest.

But I wish you could have asked Jason about doing a future project with Metheny. We have seen recent collaborations with Sharon Isbin and Larry Coryell as well as Barrueco and DiMiola. How about Vieaux and Metheny? Wouldn’t that be exciting? Of course they are both touring junkies who are probably so busy with their schedules mapped out for years that they couldn’t find time to do it. But it would be an exciting project don’t you think?

Regarding Jason’s teaching on efficiency, he would always drill me about the ‘efficiency of motion’. His process is extremely analytical and precise looks at every aspect of the learning a piece holistically. Jason’s approach coupled with John’s musical thinking was amazing. I am glad to see Jason’s success, he deserves it. One of the hardest working musicians out there.