Watch Solos: The Jazz Sessions - Andrew Hill

Solos: The Jazz Sessions - Andrew Hill is a documentary film that musically takes us through the life of jazz pianist and composer, Andrew Hill. The film is directed by Chris Felver, an American filmmaker who also directed documentaries like John Cage: I Have Nothing to Say and the award-winning Ferlinghetti: A Rebirth of Wonder. The film is a part of the Solos: The Jazz Sessions documentary series that capture some of the most influential jazz musicians of our time. The film takes us through an hour of Andrew Hill's solo piano performance as he plays ten improvised pieces. The music is arranged into a single continuous performance that makes the film feel like a concert that you are attending.

Andrew Hill was one of the most innovative jazz pianists of his time. He was born in 1931 in Chicago, Illinois, and began playing the piano at a young age. He was influenced by pianists such as Thelonious Monk, Bud Powell, and Earl Hines. He began his musical career playing with jazz legends like Charlie Parker, Johnny Griffin, and Kenny Dorham.

The film shows Andrew Hill playing his own compositions, each rendered in his unique style. As the pianist plays, he tells the story of his life and how he developed as a musician. He talks about his upbringing, his early musical influences, and how he came to develop his own unique style of jazz music.

One of the interesting things about the documentary is that it was filmed at the Hill's home in Jersey City. This takes the performance out of a concert hall and gives it a more intimate feeling. As Andrew Hill performs, his facial expressions and hand gestures show his emotions, making it a more personal experience for the viewer.

The film not only focuses on Andrew Hill's music but also on the impact he had on jazz as a whole. Many jazz musicians consider him to be one of the most innovative and groundbreaking pianists of his generation. He was known for his use of unconventional harmonic and rhythmic structures, which have influenced many jazz pianists that followed him.

Another fascinating aspect of the documentary is the use of various camera angles. The camera takes you up close and personal with the pianist, showing each key he plays, and then zooms out to show his entire body at work. This gives viewers a sense of the power and energy Hill brings to his performances.

Solos: The Jazz Sessions - Andrew Hill is an excellent film for those who enjoy jazz music and want to learn more about one of its innovators. The documentary is beautifully shot, and the performances are outstanding. Andrew Hill's unique style of jazz piano playing is awe-inspiring, and the film captures the essence of his playing and the impact he had on the jazz world.

In summary, Solos: The Jazz Sessions - Andrew Hill is a musical journey into the life of one of the most innovative jazz pianists of our time. Through his music and stories, we get a glimpse into his life and musical influences. The film is a must-watch for any jazz lover who wants to experience the power and beauty of Andrew Hill's music.