Dan Wilson stands as a beacon in the contemporary jazz guitar landscape. Praised by luminaries like Pat Metheny, and a Grammy nominee, Wilson has solidified his position as a leading voice on his instrument. Far from the bustling jazz scenes of New York City, Wilson’s roots are deeply embedded in Akron, Ohio, a place that shapes his unique musical perspective and connection to the natural world. This interview delves into the world of Dan Wilson, exploring his journey in Jazz For Guitar, his influences, and the wisdom he imparts to aspiring musicians.
From Akron to International Acclaim: The Roots of a Jazz Guitarist
While some might associate jazz with the urban sprawl, Dan Wilson’s story begins in Akron, Ohio. This grounding in a less conventional jazz hub has contributed to his distinctive musical identity. He proudly identifies as an “Akronite,” and this connection to his hometown is as strong as his passion for jazz guitar.
Beyond music, Wilson’s life is enriched by a deep connection to nature. An avid outdoorsman and hunter since childhood, this aspect of his life might seem at odds with the sophisticated world of jazz, but it informs his perspective in interesting ways. Hunting, a tradition passed down through generations in his family and church community, instilled in him a sense of discipline and patience that undoubtedly translates to his meticulous approach to jazz guitar. Interestingly, his church background wasn’t just about outdoor pursuits; it was also his early training ground in music, highlighting the unexpected intersections in his life that shaped his artistic path in jazz for guitar.
“Vessels of Wood and Earth”: A Metaphor for Musical Collaboration in Jazz
Wilson’s album, Vessels of Wood and Earth, released on Christian McBride’s Brother Mister label, reveals a depth of conceptual thinking that underpins his music. The title itself is drawn from a biblical verse, reflecting on the idea that true strength and value often reside in the unseen foundations, rather than the outwardly impressive. For Wilson, this concept serves as a powerful metaphor for the collaborative nature of a jazz band. He emphasizes that while the spotlight often falls on the bandleader, it’s the collective effort and interplay of all musicians that truly brings the music to life. This philosophy underscores the importance of ensemble playing in jazz for guitar and the supportive roles that contribute to a cohesive and resonant sound.
Sharing the Stage with Jazz Giants: Learning from the Masters
Dan Wilson’s career is marked by collaborations with some of the most revered names in jazz. Working alongside Christian McBride, Joey DeFrancesco, Monty Alexander, and many others has been instrumental in his growth as a jazz guitarist. He speaks with deep gratitude about the profound impact these musicians have had on him. Wilson emphasizes that the bandstand itself is an unparalleled learning environment. The lessons gleaned from playing with masters like Jimmy Cobb, Russell Malone, and Lewis Nash are invaluable, representing a form of musical education that no classroom can replicate. These experiences have shaped his approach to jazz guitar, imbuing his playing with a depth and understanding honed through real-world interaction with the giants of the genre.
Grammy Recognition and the Pursuit of Live Jazz Energy
The Grammy nomination for Project Freedom was a significant milestone in Wilson’s career, a moment he describes with a sense of “bewilderment” and excitement. While appreciative of the recognition, Wilson humbly notes that the recorded album only captured a fraction of the live energy and dynamism of that particular band. This highlights a core tenet of jazz for guitar and jazz in general: the magic often happens in the spontaneous interplay of live performance. Wilson’s focus remains on capturing the authentic, ephemeral energy of live jazz, a quality that transcends studio recordings and speaks directly to the heart of the music.
“Tip City” and Pandemic Projects: Creative Outlets and Musical Camaraderie
Joining Christian McBride’s “Tip City” band in 2017 marked another significant chapter for Wilson. The opportunity arose through connections with Terri Pontremoli and, surprisingly, through Pat Metheny’s long-standing recommendation. This collaboration underscores Wilson’s growing reputation within the highest echelons of jazz guitar.
During the pandemic, a new project emerged, a trio with Cliff Barnes and Dave Throckmorton. This “pandemic band” became a vital creative outlet during a challenging period. Wilson’s admiration for Barnes and Throckmorton is evident as he describes their unique musicality and the rare chemistry they share. This ensemble, born out of a desire to continue creating music in difficult times, is slated for a future Mack Avenue recording project, promising further exploration of Wilson’s evolving sound in jazz for guitar.
The mention of a 2016 performance with Chris Potter further emphasizes Wilson’s standing among top-tier jazz musicians. He describes Potter as a “musical force of nature,” highlighting the awe-inspiring experience of sharing the stage with such an innovative improviser.
Teaching and Influences: Passing on the Torch of Jazz Guitar
While primarily focused on performing and recording, Dan Wilson is also dedicated to education through his website, danwilsonguitar.com. This platform serves as a hub for aspiring jazz guitarists to learn from his expertise and experience.
Reflecting on his own journey, Wilson cites a diverse range of influences. His family provided the foundational support that allowed him to cultivate his musical talents. Arthur Lee Gale, a pioneering guitarist within his church community, was an early and formative influence. On record, he draws inspiration from giants like Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, Joe Henderson, and Kenny Kirkland, showcasing the breadth of his musical appreciation and its impact on his approach to jazz guitar.
The Natural Approach: Technique, Practice, and Musicality in Jazz Guitar
Dan Wilson’s playing is often described as “natural” and “effortless,” drawing comparisons to the legendary George Benson. This seemingly innate musicality is, in fact, the product of dedicated practice and deep immersion in music. Wilson recounts practicing up to eight hours a day during his formative years, alongside consistent performance experience in church services. This combination of focused practice and real-world application honed his technique and solidified the guitar as his primary mode of musical expression.
When it comes to practice, Wilson prioritizes building repertoire over purely technical exercises. He believes that technical skills are most meaningful when applied to actual songs and musical contexts. This approach emphasizes the importance of musicality and expression in jazz guitar, ensuring that technique serves the music, rather than existing as an end in itself.
While acknowledging Wes Montgomery’s iconic octave playing, Wilson notes that he uses octaves more sparingly, though they were once a more prominent feature of his playing. This reflects a process of stylistic refinement and a focus on developing his own unique voice within the jazz guitar tradition.
Gear Talk: Simplicity and Reliability
When it comes to equipment, Dan Wilson maintains a refreshingly pragmatic approach. He humorously admits to being “the worst” with gear, prioritizing functionality and tone over obsessive equipment chasing. He is an endorser of Benedetto guitars, renowned for their craftsmanship and quality, and typically relies on a Fender Deluxe amp for its natural tube breakup. This emphasis on essential, high-quality gear underscores that, for Wilson, the focus remains firmly on the music and the player, rather than being overly concerned with equipment minutiae.
Future Horizons and Advice for Aspiring Jazz Guitarists
Looking ahead, Dan Wilson is planning performances with Lewis Nash, sparked by a musically electrifying experience in Vail, Colorado. This collaboration promises exciting new developments in his ongoing musical journey.
For young musicians aspiring to reach his level in jazz for guitar, Wilson offers practical and insightful advice: immerse yourself in the music of your heroes. He recommends learning the “book” – the repertoire – of musicians you admire and seeking opportunities to connect with them. Demonstrating familiarity with an artist’s music is a powerful way to make a lasting impression and open doors to learning and mentorship.
Dan Wilson’s journey in jazz for guitar is a testament to dedication, collaboration, and a deep connection to both musical tradition and personal roots. His story offers valuable lessons and inspiration for anyone passionate about exploring the rich and rewarding world of jazz guitar.
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