a few thoughts from the other half of the Steve Lacy Duo, Danilo Perez

Steve Lacy showed us that being a jazz musician is the work of a lifetime. His compositions and improvisations are full of wisdom and life. He taught us the power of words through his music. Hearing his soprano playing was a life changing experience, because he approached his sound, improvisation and technique as if he believed it was a test of man's sincerity.

As a friend he was a very encouraging, caring and generous man with a great sense of humor. As a teacher he was a great educator who inspired all of us inside and outside the classroom, with the genius of his musical phrasing and his brilliant remarks.

Last year while playing a duo concert in New York, he took me to an exhibition of a great Chinese painter. His detailed comments about the paintings offered a great lesson in color subtlety and form. I found myself contemplating his words of wisdom all afternoon. That night after the very inspired concert we played he said; "Danilo we were painting tonight."

He was very kind to me and to many people who knew him. As he would say the music and the artist become one as we get older.

Steve, thanks for inspiring and sharing your gifts with the world. Your great musical legacy will live in our hearts and minds forever.

God bless Steve and his dear Irene.

Steve Lacy New York Times Obit [PDF Download]

Steve Lacy Modus Operandi: Official Home Page

Steve Lacy On His Art