Milt Buckner takes the A Train twice (1975)
Milt Buckner in the 1970s. Location, exact date and photographer
not identified. From the Otto Flückiger collection.
For some weeks in 1975 Milt Buckner had an engagement at the Hotel Novapark in Zurich, entertaining the hotel guests of the bar on piano and organ. My friend Otto Flückiger took the opportunity and made the one hour train drive to Zurich to talk to Milt and maybe record him. Otto was at the Novapark on November 6 and November 8. All in all 34 tracks were recorded by Otto – Buckner had a wide repertoire: From Siboney to Yes, We Have No Bananas. I especially like the two joyous renditions Buckner plays of Strayhorn’s “Take the A Train”, which I am presenting you here. It is to be hoped that more people than Otto realized what a great musician they heard here.
So here’s Milt Buckner playing Take The A Train on November 6, 1975:
And here is the November 8 version:
Enjoy!
October 7, 2012 at 5:52 pm
Milt Buckner was not only a great musician, but a dedicated caring father to one of the best friends that I have ever had. I grew up in Defiance, Ohio and was fortunate to have known him. Hearing his music always brings back wonderful memories.
October 7, 2012 at 5:54 pm
Thanks for sharing these two nice versions
October 14, 2012 at 10:42 pm
I got both the Nov 6 & 8th total recordings from or friend Otto. I think I can remember that he told me that Hans Philippi was also with him at the sessions. What a wonderful memory. And as Otto used to say, what joyfull grunzes……