Awards/Feedback
This page comprises three awards I received during my writing career, followed by responses to my work – as both a writer and a musician. I am deeply grateful for these kind, supportive words. – ZS
Awards
The Los Angeles Jazz Society’s Jazz Communicator Award, Oct. 9, 1994.
Certificate of Commendation from the City of Los Angeles, which states: “Zan Stewart…for his many distinguished years as a jazz writer, historian and outstanding communicator of jazz, the true music form in America; for his deep commitment, enthusiastic and personal involvement and numerous contributions to supporting, informing, and promoting jazz music and its uniquely creative musicians and artists; thereby playing a significant role in the cultural enrichment of millions of people throughout the world and enhancing the quality of life for the City of Los Angeles,” Oct. 9, 1994.
The ASCAP-Deems Taylor Award “in recognition of the excellence of his liner notes “Out There: The Angelic Passion of Eric Dolphy” (included in the 9-CD box set, The Complete Prestige Recordings [Prestige Records]), Dec. 9, 1996.
Responses to Zan’s writing
“Thank you so much for telling my story and putting it in such a beautiful, interesting and supporting way.”
“Thanks again Zan. It's always nice to have notes with the same degree of integrity as the music. Let's do this again soon!”
“Zan Stewart’s knowledge of, and passion for, the saxophone informed the great essay on Sonny Stitt found in this 28-page booklet...”
“Thank you so much for your support, kind words, and for being such a positive force in this music.”
Responses to Zan's music
"Hey Zan, it is understandable that you jazzbos rate events in terms of fans and money, but there is another perspective. If jazz is wanted in the neighborhood there could be no more comfortable, cozy and enjoyable way to absorb a few tunes from musicians who care about their work. Arriving at break time, the place was too crammed to walk into, and some young lady of indefinite persuasion on the side walk was telling us, 'Good, yeah, really good, man'. Granted, it's tiny and it was a ten-minute crowd but owner Eric Whittington must have liked that and he sold a few books too. Second set there were three young couples with babes or toddlers, relaxing and focusing on the melodies. A couple of little old ladies and a couple of random single browsers who sat down. Cafe music with books that catch your eye, neighborhood folks, right up there with the French neighborhood cafes where Piaf got her start, and wished she had finished. And a couple of songs stuck in the old head, can't ask for more than that. Even appeared that the group enjoyed hanging after, far as I could tell. Cheers."
"That was fun, fun, fun, fun, fun!"
.“You played that good.”
“People ought to come down here and find out who you really are.”
“Don’t sound that bad to me…Keep doin’ what you’re doin’, keep cookin’.”
“Great show!”
“Thanks for that old school jazz. Made us very happy.”
“You guys are a bunch of funky 'mf-ers'. Thanks for keeping the flame alive.”
“Thanks for coming down the other night. Sounded good, man!”
“Keep doing what you’re doing.”
“You sounded great. The tone is happenin'. Keep on the path and see where it takes you."
“I liked your sound."
"Beautiful Stuff. Your band kicks ass!"
