My greatest teacher was not a vocal coach, not the work of other singers, but the way Tommy Dorsey breathed and phrased on the trombone.
Interpretation
Frank Sinatra attributes his musical education to the unique style of Tommy Dorsey rather than traditional teaching methods.
In this quote, Frank Sinatra emphasizes that the most impactful lessons he learned about music came not from formal instruction or other singers, but from observing Tommy Dorsey's approach to playing the trombone. This suggests that experiential learning and the ability to absorb inspiration from others can be just as valuable, if not more so, than conventional learning methods.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of learning from role models in any field.
With few exceptions, every major pop singer in the US during her generation has been touched in some way by her genius. It is Billie Holiday who was, and still remains, the greatest single musical influence on me. Lady Day is unquestionably the most important influence on American popular singing in the last twenty years.
When lip service to some mysterious deity permits bestiality on Wednesday and absolution on Sunday, cash me out.
There have been many accolades uttered about Elvis' talent and performances through the years, all of which I agree with wholeheartedly. I shall miss him dearly as a friend. He was a warm, considerate and generous man.
Dare to wear the foolish clown face.
I want to wake up in a city that never sleeps
I think my greatest ambition in life is to pass on to others what I know.
When you pay your money to see me, I want you to have the best concert you can have from me.
We are all spirits. We get depressed. But music makes you want to live. I know my music has saved my life.
When I play, maybe 'Back o' Town Blues,' I'm thinking about one of the old, low-down moments - when maybe your woman didn't treat you right. That's a hell of a moment when a woman tell you, 'I got another mule in my stall.'
I'll never be Bob Dylan. He's the master.
Rock n' roll means so much more to people; it enriches the culture. Also, it inspires people; there's no half-feeling. When I first got into it, I was inspired by people who had come before me, and I found myself in the position of handing that on.
We all have idols. Play like anyone you care about but try to be yourself while you're doing so.
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