Zappa University
Every summer for the last seven years, Arthur Barrow has served as a valuable resource in Joseph Klein’s classroom, where Klein immerses UNT students in the world of Frank Zappa — from the music of The Mothers of Invention to the political and social implications of the lyrics.
A nice article in North Texan Online with Barrow’s story (did I mention he’s my favorite bassist?) Some more:
Frank Zappa’s band played for BBC Radio in 2003 on the 10th anniversary of his death:
Frank Zappa Anniversary Session Mar Vista Philharmonic
Albert Wing: tenor sax
Bruce Fowler: trombone
Walt Fowler: trumpet and flugelhorn
Kurt McGettrick: baritone sax, bass clarinet and flute
Tommy Mars: Hammond organ, Fender Rhodes and vocals
Vinnie Colaiuta: drums
Arthur Barrow: bassRecorded by Bob Stone
Produced and mixed by Arthur Barrow
Recorded at Lotek Studio, Mar Vista, Los Angeles on 7 th November 2003
Gee… ever heard about it, anyone?
January 11th, 2008 at 5:12 pm »
The long FZ tail reaches out.
The best thing that could happen to FZ, who was world famous when he lived ( unlike many other great artists), might be :
- musicians playing his scores. See for instance FZ on ://www.sheetmusicplus.com/
- musicians taking FZ ideas further. This is essential.
- ( sorry ’bout that, however it’s valuable) FZ being explored at music academies as “an excercise” for students.
January 11th, 2008 at 6:22 pm »
Bob Stone is an asshole.
January 11th, 2008 at 6:23 pm »
I’ll second that!
January 11th, 2008 at 6:48 pm »
If what Barrow’s entered was called “Zappa University,” where each tour seemed like a semester, then what would the 1988 tour be known as?
January 11th, 2008 at 11:24 pm »
I think I remember listening to that band on BBC Radio 3 and I probably taped it. It was OK but I can’t have all that impressed with it because I haven’t a clue where I put the tape. The main thing I was pleased about was that the BBC were commemorating Frink as a ‘serious’ composer. They broadcast some other programmes about the great man
I wonder if the BBC got permission from the Z*T? Come to that, has the University of North Texas got permission for its summer school? And how come that news article uses Zopper’s name?
January 14th, 2008 at 9:47 am »
Arthur was in the band at my first FZ show. I felt bad when he wasn’t on the next tour. A very memorable performer doubling on bass & keyboards. I still remember his Doors keyboard jam.
I love the audition stories. Keep them coming!
January 19th, 2008 at 12:23 pm »
I missed it!!