"My harmony is passable but is usually made more eloquent at the hands of Steve Hamilton"
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Bill Bruford, renowned for his work as a drummer with bands like Yes, King Crimson, and his own tasks, is understood for being extremely articulate about his craft. When he says, "My harmony is passable but is usually made more eloquent at the hands of Steve Hamilton", he's likely talking to the collective nature of music, particularly jazz and progressive rock, where the input from numerous artists raises the entire.
The phrase "My consistency is satisfactory" suggests that Bruford sees his own ability to develop harmony-- whether melodic, balanced, or conceptual-- as qualified yet not remarkable. As a drummer, Bruford might be highlighting the constraints of his main instrument in regards to adding to harmonic advancement straight. Drums traditionally focus on rhythm and characteristics, offering little in the way of tune or harmony in a conventional sense.
The mention of Steve Hamilton, who is an experienced jazz pianist and composer, suggests a collaboration where Hamilton's expertise complements and enhances Bruford's contributions. Hamilton's capability to craft elaborate harmonic progressions likely brings a richness and sophistication to the music that Bruford feels he could not accomplish alone. It reflects a humility and understanding that while specific talent is substantial, collaboration often produces superior art.
Bruford's option of the word "eloquent" is especially telling. It indicates not just a technically innovative harmonic input from Hamilton, but likewise a beauty and expressiveness. Bruford seems to be acknowledging that his musical ideas end up being more articulate, meaningful, and possibly more widely comprehended when translated through, or built on, Hamilton's unified sensibilities.
Eventually, this quote underscores the charm of synergy in music. It celebrates the idea that while individual ability is important, the real magic typically takes place when skills mix, creating something more profound and eloquent than the sum of its parts.
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