ALEX DARQUI’S JAZZY SMOOTH BOLD COURT!
ALEX DARQUI was born in Tiaret, Algeria of a French Father and Algerian Mother. He lived mostly in France during his early childhood, then moved to the French West Indies. It is there, on the Island of Guadeloupe that he began studying piano at the young age of six. His teacher, Mrs. Bochot as he recalls, also taught him painting, and he became interested in tennis as well. “We moved to America, says Alex, where I continued piano lessons with Mr. LaPorta. Tennis was also part of my life and still is. My dream came true in having a family and raising a son.” Alex has been teaching Jazz and classical piano for the past thirty years at the College and University level in the South Florida area.
Alex Darqui was introduced to me by his good friend Rich Franks, another wonderful musician with whom, along with John Patitucci, they honoured their friend Jaco Pastorius by recording an album entitled For our Friend, album which I call the perfect album.
Alex, welcome and thank you for participating in this project. I sincerely appreciate your taking time to answer the following questions:
No. 1) What is music to and for you? (generally and personally)
To me generally, music is a gradual process of evolution at work. For me personally , music is a goal of mine which constantly requires practice, research, towards enlightenment.
No. 2) What inspires you?
What is inspiring to me is the musical freedom that I have in order to reach my musical goals.
No. 3) When you are playing, creating, where does it take you? I mean where does your mind travel?
When I am playing and creating, my mind focuses melodically, harmonically and rhythmically. These musical forces guide my travels.
No. 4) Do you think music, playing music, visual arts and health are related and if so, how?
Health and music brings to mind numerous examples of composers that have not had good health, but, have composed some of the best music. Yes I do believe that health is a primary factor for the playing of music. Visual arts, music and the playing of music are totally related. They each require dedication and patience.
No. 5) How do you feel when you are playing music?
When I am playing music,I would like to convey to the listener what I am hearing and feeling at that moment.
No. 6) Do you identify to your music and if so, on what level?
I identify in composing.For it is in that process where the creating source lies.
No. 7) Under what conditions do you work best?
I work best under all conditions because of the fact that each offer many challenges. To me all best conditions also range from being able to practice, compose and perform.
No. 8) Does playing music help you connect with your higher self, whatever that may be for you?
Playing music helps me connect with the idea of total freedom. Then, only through dedication and devotion will musical development start and continue to grow.
No. 9) How do you feel about creativity in the public school system?
In regards to the public school system,the visual arts and musical programs are not unified enough.Some schools have programs and some schools do not. However I find that the College and University systems have wonderful arts and music programs. That is just fine,but,with the experience that I have as a College and University piano teacher,the arts and music programs should have been introduced to the student at an earlier age.
No. 10) In your opinion, what could a simple solution to improve creativity in
the public school system?
A simple solution would be for the world to unite and provide a beautiful environment for the young people, which in turn would surely develop the creative process.
No. 11) How do you feel about improvisation?
Improvisation should grow naturally in accordance to the progress of one’s musical development and enlightenment. It is a lifetime process.
No. 12) What is jazz to you?
Jazz to me is part of musical history which has produced many different styles. Jazz harmony owes a great deal to western music. Blues is an original musical form. Jazz and blues are related. Jazz rhythm is also original and owes much to the African rhythms and tribal songs.
No. 13) What made you choose the instrument you play? Or what attracted you to that instrument if I can put it that way?
The piano was introduced to me by my family at the age of six. By the age of thirteen I had decided that it would be my life’s work.
No. 14) What are you hoping to convey to the listener through your music?
That the listener should be open minded and that his or her opinion will be valued by me.
Alex, thank you so much for sharing with us your thoughts and feelings. There is no doubt in my mind that anyone who has had the privilege of studying under you has become an excellent musician. Until our paths cross again, be blessed!
TO THE READER :
Your comments are always very much appreciated, thank you and enjoy!
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Comments
Thank You Michele Andree for the interview with Alex Darqui. Alex is the greatest pianist/teacher/friend I have ever known. A true original in every sense of the word. Unparallelled inspiration beyond measure as both friend and musician.
Rich Franks
Michele, thank you for interviewing this great artist. There’s not enough room in a brief comment to explain what an education and inspiration it was for me to work with Alex and Rich. Alex’s harmonic vocabulary and originality are truly astounding, and he’s always a total gentleman. Bravo!
Dear Alex,
How beautiful you play for these past many years. It was a delight to spend 7:13 minutes with you via facebook and youtube this morning, especially including Jaco.
More, More We all want more of you, Alex.
Love, Lee
Thank you for this wonderful tribute to one of the nicest human beings I recall ever meeting. Alex was always so kind to me although I was so beneath him in terms of talent and understanding. When he played, I would seem to listen more intently as he was always pushing the melodic envelope which piqued my curiosity. The man is a gift.
Alex, you are a visionary! We go back 1992 WPB. I’m very glad you gave me a chance to be heard. I look forward to creating more music with you in the near future! Thanks for your Soulful Kindness…in “Allowing”….PEACE!
SAMM
Alex, I miss playing with you!
LONG TIME NO SEE HOPE ALL .IS WELL .GIVE ME A HELLO. DOING A GIG WITH IRA FEB 26 IN PORT ST LUCIE .IM LIVING IN SEBASTIN THE PAST 12 YEARS ENJOYED MICROCOSIM FRANK
Alex, I ferreted out your info in reviewing Jaco’s bios.
I had a hard time attempting to put a timeline on your West Palm Beach “gig” but thanks to Jeff and SAMM, I figured 1992! Yikes! At any rate, what a highlight for weary eyes and ears.
I live in a community that has a private Facebook page. I asked if anyone knew of a good piano teacher for me and your name was suggested. I was at a beginning Intermediate level but haven’t touched a piano because I was renting a house for 15 months until my house was ready for me to move in. The piano had been in storage and is now in my house for the last 4 months.but I still haven’t touched my piano. I need to take lessons to become motivated again.Thanks, Sarah Lipp
Hi Mr. Darqui:
My cell number is: 301-346-1700
I’d like to know if you could take me on as your piano student.
Thanks,
Sarah Lipp
lippdancer@gmail.com
Helll Mr Darqui!
It has been a long time since studying Jazz Piano wth you at Palm Beach State College. Hope all is well you with as so much has happened. If you still keep in touch with John Porter, I’d like to hear from the both of you.
Thanks,
Junio
Jabraham1@berklee.edu
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