Storyville Records is proud to present one of master saxophonist Phil Woods’ most impressive projects, Bird With Strings … And More! The recording of this album took place in Tonhalle Zürich on June 13, 2005 with the help of pianist Ben Aronov, bassist Reggie Johnson, drummer Douglas Sides and the fantastic Zürich Chamber Orchestra. The beautiful and characteristic sound of jazz and pop supported by a string orchestra is a very special and rare experience. Bird With Strings … And More! uses the classic album Charlie Parker With Strings as a point of departure. Charlie Parker, also known as Bird, recorded the original Charlie Parker With Strings in 1949 with a rhythm section plus a very small string section.
On this recording, PW has written all new arrangements based on the original scores, and expanded the original arrangements to a much larger string section of 24/30 pieces and added a small woodwind section of oboe, flute and clarinet. Woods also proceeded to write a dozen extra arrangements with the same instrumentation. PW pays perfect tribute to Bird and his original project, but with his very own sound signature, sometimes warm and sometimes volcanic.
PW was not only an extraordinary alto saxophonist, but also an incredible composer and arranger. He is a modern jazz giant and one of the most important alto saxophonists in the history of jazz. Woods was known for a lyrical and beautiful sound making him one of the most popular musicians in mainstream jazz. This is emotional music for lovers, so savor the moment and relax in the company of one of the true masters!
