Meet the CJO: Musette Vincent
I don't need time. What I need is a deadline.
Duke Ellington
In addition to all the fantastic musicians who you’ve seen at our concerts, behind the scenes, we have a dedicated board of directors, who love music and are passionate about the CJO and what we do for the region. This week, we are meeting one of our board members, VP of Development, Musette Vincent, who brings a unique perspective to the CJO through her family history.
Her father, Virgil Vincent, was a jazz pianist who settled in the Cleveland area in the late 40’s, after touring around the country for ten years. From his touring days, he encountered many great artists such as Dorothy Donegan, Art Tatum, Moms Mabley, and Marian McPartland (to name a few), and in Cleveland, he was a regular fixture in the music scene, until his death in 2009.
Q & A with Musette Vincent
How long have you been with the CJO? About 4 years
What has been your favorite concert with the CJO? Mardi Gras, hands down, by a mile! (February 2020)
What was your introduction to jazz? My daddy was a jazz musician (pianist Virgil Vincent) and my mom, a huge aficionada.
Why did you choose the instrument that you play? Piano - I didn't have a choice.
What is your favorite jazz album? Miles Davis, Kind of Blue.
Which jazz musician would you most like to have a beer with, and why?
Duke Ellington because he was smart and hot! And it wouldn't be beer!
Why do you think jazz should be taught in schools? Discipline and play - learn the rules, break them. And just as good for math skills as classical.
Who are your top musical influences?
Steely Dan and the Allman Brothers
What is your guilty pleasure music? 80's hair bands
Tell us something interesting about you that others may not know. I was a singer in a rock and roll band.