SAMMONS JAZZ REMEMBERS

1938 - 2007

trust, respect, and timing                      “Jazz Essentials,” 19 October 2007 photo montage by diane pilot\edat’art©

         Marchel Ivery is one of the true virtuosos in the field of jazz; a legend in his own time, and one of the most listenable musicians around. The old sax he has played for many years seems a continuation of his very being; an expression of his mind, body and soul as natural to him as our own voices are to most of us.

          In a conversation with percussionist, Andrew Griffith, the essence of the man was revealed. "Humility. That's the key to Marchel's success," stated Griffith . "He is generous to a fault. He gives us the freedom to express ourselves completely, and trusts us to play sensitively to the rest of the band, "Andrew continued. "That's what it's all about trust; trust and respect." . . . And timing. Not just in the musical sense, but in life in general, a principle he has always tried to apply. . . . He is quick to respond to any situation, usually with the same style and grace as is displayed in his playing. Summing up for most any performer playing with Marchel Ivery, Andrew Griffith said, "I feel like I'm the most blessed musician in town."

         The youngest of eleven children growing up in Ennis's 4th ward on Freeman Street , he learned from all those around him, of music, of love and compassion in tough times. Just keeping body and soul together was a tall order for most people during the depression and the ensuing war. . . .    

 It was during the tough times, however, that the music "fed" the family. "I had 4 brothers and 6 sisters, all with talent. Those girls could sing! And my mother, well she had a really beautiful voice,” said Marchel. When you can sing and laugh together, the hard times don't seem so bad. "I was young enough that I didn't realize the dynamics of the times completely, but I knew there was something going on that affected us all," Marchel continued.

“Jazz Essentials,” Sammons Center for the Arts, 19 October 2007 photo by diane pilot\edat’art©        

    Later, in the Army, “I was sent to Paris France for a tour of duty, and while I was there it all kind of happened for me," he continued. “I was spending more and more of my time watching and learning from all the jazz greats of the time who were living in Paris, and even when I was working and studying on duty, my mind just kept going back to the music." As he began to play with several of the professionals in Paris, he began to seriously think, "Can I really make a living doing this?" "Is it all about fame and money, or is it about the artistry?" Marchel Ivery decided that the artistry was the ruling feature, and that the money would take care of itself.

         When it comes to the style he developed over the years, Ivery believes strongly that one's own identity means more in the long run, and that integrity in all things is where real success is.

         "I don't know that I am different than anyone else, but I am a kind of spiritual being, and believe in not trying to control everything around me," Ivery said. "Just let life flow at it's own pace. Things go easier that way, especially in communicating with others."

          What advice would he give to aspiring performers? "Be prepared for rejection, disappointments, and bad days. There may be some unseen benefits in this that will contribute to future success. It's all part of the Journey," Ivery stated. "If you have no bumps in the road, you never know how good your shocks are! Every beautiful endeavor has a price tag. The main drive should be love. Once you are in love with one thing, it is difficult to imagine loving something else." This attitude usually leads to doing whatever it is well, and the rest just falls into place. This goes for anything a person does.

         The love Marchel Ivery has for his music and for mankind is a shining beacon for all to follow, whether in professional or personal life. This is truly a man who brings richness to life's tapestry with every fiber of his being. Blessed is the man who has music in his soul, for he shall impart riches to all.

Sammons Jazz Member: catherine crandell - 1998 [excerpted, OCT 2007]

CHARITABLE FUNDS INFORMATION

Sammons Center for the Arts

announces two funds established in memory of Marchel Ivery:

The Hope and Gloria Fund

The Marchel Ivery Fund for the Presentation and Preservation of Jazz

Mail checks to:

Sammons Center for the Arts

3630 Harry Hines Blvd.

Dallas, TX  75219

Or call 214/520-7789 for further information.

Contributions to both funds are tax deductible

SAMMONS JAZZ in memoriam

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