ROUBEN, ROUBEN : CHOPPING WOODY

It’s always painful to see one of your heroes put-down in print.

A. James Liska’s review of the Woody Herman Sextet at the Vine St. Bar & Grill went further than usual in heaping scorn on a musician whose accomplishments should make him off-limits to that kind of thing (Jazz Review, Jan. 9).

Liska comments that Woody Herman is “but a shadow of his former musical self. Somewhat worn out--out of tune--lacking ideas on the clarinet and vocally void in musicianship and emotion, Herman has been reduced to an act whose very musical move can be appreciated only from a nostalgic perspective.”

Putting aside the trite phrases, one wonders at the lack of both respect and perspective.

Woody, constantly surrounding himself with exciting young musicians, has remained a growing giant among leaders and performers. Without him, many of our greatest players, most innovative developments, most exciting records would have been forever undiscovered. He has been an inspiration to several generations.

Liska should show a little respect, then relax and simply enjoy the good times Woody continues to provide. His is a mature talent we should all celebrate.

FRED M. HALL

Ojai

Hall hosts the nationally syndicated radio show “Swing Thing.”