Multi-istrumetalist Lloyd Miller on 38 istruments, 1965-2000s

[worldartsdocmiller]

Read about the unbelievable adventures of Dr. Lloyd Miller traveling and performing through the Middle East and beyond by going to the jazzscope website and clicking on Sufi, Saint & Swinger.

[FernandRaynaud]

Thanks for the reply. I wonder if the reason you can play "in style" on each instrument is because you are a medium, or because there are a finite number of general "schools", so that, for instance, once you know the Maqam system, the neighboring Persian, Turkish etc, are not that far off, the same with European Baroque, Chinese and so on. If so, how many "base" systems would you say there are?

[worldartsdocmiller]

My parents frequently locked me in my room where I learned all their instruments: clarinet, sax, banjo and piano from following the keys of our player piano. I got a cornet and later a trombone and learned those too. Me and my friend Spencer Dryden (of Jefferson Airplane, gag!) made a band of 5 and did lawn concerts in the 40s. In 1962, I followed a path my master Dr. Safvat advised: I abadoned all bad habits: booze, cigs, coffee, tea, went almost vegan. I sought God all day and still do. L.M.

[FernandRaynaud]

Can you please explain to us here, to what you attribute your remarkable chameleon-like ability to "channel" so many different musical idioms? Surely you didn't have time in your 71 years to spend a decade at the feet of a master of each of these distinct cultures?

[goodcyrus]

5 stars! and thank you for sharing all these great experiences. Maybe you should record some educational clips and share your knowledge of music. e.g. I am curious why you play the piano with single fingers. I cannot see an improvement on speed, efficiency but possibly sound quality?

[palmerkeen]

Wow, I've never heard retuned Persian piano like that before...any chance you'll post the full video?

Great stuff, Dr. Miller!

[ormoluinhen]

what a legend! lloyd forever!

[haveajerk]

I have to say that I envy you a little, Dr.

[pacerman265]

if this video isnt a hidden treasure i dont know what is! Your incredible.