#hamptons chauffeur

[ridesoho]

Hamptons Car Service: Your Guide to Luxury and Convenience

The Hamptons, with its stunning beaches, upscale lifestyle, and exclusive retreats, is a haven for those seeking relaxation and indulgence. Whether you're a resident, a frequent visitor, or planning your first trip, transportation plays a vital role in ensuring your journey is as luxurious and seamless as your destination. This is where Hamptons car services come in, offering unparalleled comfort, reliability, and sophistication.

Why Choose a Hamptons Car Service?

When heading to the Hamptons, convenience and style are paramount. Opting for a professional car service ensures you experience:

Stress-Free Travel: Forget the hassle of navigating traffic or finding parking. With a car service, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive.

Luxury and Comfort: Most services offer high-end vehicles, from sleek sedans to spacious SUVs, ensuring a first-class travel experience.

Reliability: Professional drivers are punctual and well-versed in the best routes to avoid delays, so you arrive on time, every time.

Safety: Experienced chauffeurs prioritise your safety, offering peace of mind during your journey.

Customised Experience: Whether you're travelling solo, with family, or in a group, car services can tailor their offerings to meet your needs.

Popular Routes for Hamptons Car Services

Hamptons car services are ideal for various routes and occasions. Here are some of the most popular:

1. From New York City to the Hamptons

The journey from NYC to the Hamptons is a quintessential escape for city dwellers. A car service provides a smooth, door-to-door experience, avoiding the stress of public transport or self-driving.

2. Airport Transfers

Many visitors arrive at nearby airports like JFK, LaGuardia, or MacArthur. A car service ensures a hassle-free transfer, with chauffeurs ready to assist with luggage and navigate the quickest routes.

3. Local Transportation Within the Hamptons

Exploring the Hamptons’ charming towns, vineyards, and beaches is best done in style. A car service allows you to hop between destinations effortlessly, from East Hampton to Montauk.

Features of a Premium Hamptons Car Service

When selecting a car service, look for the following features to ensure a top-notch experience:

Luxury Fleet: Choose services offering a range of high-end vehicles, including limousines, SUVs, and executive sedans.

Professional Chauffeurs: Drivers should be experienced, courteous, and knowledgeable about the Hamptons and surrounding areas.

24/7 Availability: Reliable car services operate round the clock, catering to late-night arrivals or early-morning departures.

Online Booking and Transparent Pricing: Convenient booking options and clear pricing structures are signs of a professional service.

Customised Packages: Whether you need hourly rentals, point-to-point transfers, or corporate services, flexibility is key.

How to Choose the Right Hamptons Car Service

With several options available, finding the perfect service can be overwhelming. Here are some tips:

Read Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction.

Compare Prices: While luxury comes at a cost, ensure you’re getting value for money.

Check Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the service provider is licensed and insured for added security.

Assess Customer Support: A responsive customer service team is a hallmark of a reliable car service.

Top Occasions for Using a Hamptons Car Service

Whether you're celebrating a special event or need reliable transport, car services are ideal for:

Weddings: Arrive in elegance on your big day.

Corporate Events: Impress clients or attend meetings without worrying about logistics.

Wine Tours: Enjoy the region’s finest vineyards without the need for a designated driver.

Weekend Getaways: Travel in comfort for a relaxing escape.

Benefits of Booking Early

The Hamptons is a popular destination, especially during summer. Booking your car service in advance ensures:

Availability of your preferred vehicle.

Potential discounts for early reservations.

Peace of mind knowing your transport is sorted.

Final Thoughts

A Hamptons car service transforms your journey into an indulgent experience, blending luxury, convenience, and reliability. Whether you're heading to the Hamptons for leisure or business, investing in a professional car service ensures every moment of your trip is stress-free and memorable.

Book your Hamptons car service today and let the journey be as exquisite as the destination itself.

[hamptons-vip-ride]

Exploring the Benefits of Westhampton Car Service

When it comes to traveling in and out of Westhampton, whether for business or leisure, choosing the right Westhampton car service is essential. The Hamptons VIP Ride offers premier car services, including Westhampton chauffeur services, to ensure that your journey is comfortable, reliable, and stress-free. With a fleet of luxury vehicles and professional drivers, you can experience seamless travel to your desired destination.

What is Westhampton Car Service?

Westhampton car service is a professional transportation service that caters to the needs of travelers, whether for airport transfers, private events, or leisure travel. The service provides comfortable, safe, and timely rides, allowing passengers to avoid the hassle of public transport or parking. For those traveling from Westhampton to LaGuardia, the journey is made easy with personalized service, ensuring on-time arrivals without the stress of navigation.

Why Choose Westhampton Car Service?

Professional Drivers: With Westhampton chauffeur services, you get experienced, courteous drivers who are familiar with local routes, ensuring timely arrivals and a smooth ride.

Luxury Fleet: We offers a wide range of luxury vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and sprinter vans, to ensure you travel in comfort and style.

Convenience: Whether you're traveling from Westhampton to LaGuardia or need a ride for a special occasion, we ensures a seamless experience from start to finish. Their reliable service guarantees you won't miss a flight or event.

Airport Transfers: Westhampton to LaGuardia transfers are made easy with Hamptons VIP Ride, providing a fast, comfortable, and hassle-free way to get to the airport. With a commitment to punctuality, you can rely on them for smooth airport transfers.

Personalized Service: Whether it's a business meeting, wedding, or wine tour, we offers tailored services to fit your unique travel needs.

Conclusion

Choosing Westhampton car service from Hamptons VIP Ride ensures you enjoy a luxurious, hassle-free travel experience. Book today to experience the best in car service and enjoy your journey with ease!

[hamptonschauffeur]

Hamptons Chauffeur Services offers first-rate transportation that is easy to customize to your needs. Our range of opulent cars and SUVs ensures comfortable, dependable, and reasonably priced transportation. North Fork (Jamesport, Mattituck, Cutchogue, Greenport), Westhampton, Hampton Bays, Southampton, Water Mill, Bridgehampton, Sag Harbor, East Hampton, Quogue, Sagaponack, and Shelter Island are just a few of the places we serve. Whether you're going to a large airport or New York City, we guarantee a seamless and first-rate service from beginning to end.

[quickluxuryride]

Beyond Transportation: Elevate Your East Hampton Experience with Chauffeur Services

East Hampton, nestled on the eastern end of Long Island, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, upscale amenities, and a lifestyle that exudes sophistication. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, navigating this charming town can be transformed into a luxurious and stress-free experience with the help of professional chauffeur services.

The Essence of Chauffeur Services in East Hampton

1. Personalized and Professional Service:

Chauffeur service in East Hampton offer a blend of personalized attention and professionalism. Experienced chauffeurs prioritize your comfort, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.

2. Luxury Fleet Options:

Elevate your transportation experience with a luxurious fleet of vehicles. From sleek limousines to sophisticated sedans, chauffeur services provide options that align with your style and preferences.

3. Efficient and Reliable:

By opting for chauffeur services, you gain access to a reliable mode of transportation. Professional chauffeurs are well-versed with the local routes, ensuring punctuality and efficiency in every journey.

Benefits of Choosing Limo Service in East Hampton

1. Sophistication and Style:

A limousine service in East Hampton adds a touch of sophistication to your travel experience. Arrive at your destination in style, making a lasting impression.

2. Special Occasions:

Limos are perfect for special occasions. Whether it's a wedding, anniversary, or a glamorous night out, a limo service East Hampton enhances the celebratory atmosphere.

3. Relaxation and Comfort:

Enjoy the journey as much as the destination. With a limo service, you can relax in plush interiors, sip on refreshments, and unwind while your professional chauffeur takes care of the road.

Choosing the Right East Hampton Limo Service

1. Research and Reviews:

Before selecting a limo service, conduct thorough research. Read reviews from previous clients to ensure the service provider meets your expectations.

2. Fleet Options:

Assess the fleet options available. Choose a limo service that provides a diverse range of well-maintained vehicles to suit your specific needs.

3. Transparent Pricing:

Transparent pricing is essential. Look for a service provider that offers clear and upfront pricing without hidden costs, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Conclusion: A Luxurious Journey Awaits

In conclusion, beyond mere transportation, chauffeur services and limo services in East Hampton redefine the travel experience, adding a touch of luxury and convenience. Whether you're exploring the town, heading to an event, or celebrating a special occasion, the right chauffeur service ensures a journey that matches the town's sophisticated ambiance.

Elevate your East Hampton experience with chauffeur services that prioritize your comfort, style, and overall satisfaction. Embrace the luxury of personalized transportation, and let every journey in and around East Hampton be a reflection of your discerning taste and appreciation for the finer things in life.

For Original post Content: - https://froodl.com/beyond-transportation-elevate-your-east-hampton-experience-with-chauffeur-services

[hamptonsviprid]

Ride in Style: Hamptons VIP Ride, Your Premier Car Service!

Experience luxury travel with Hamptons VIP Ride! Our premier car service ensures a smooth and stylish journey in the Hamptons. Whether it's an airport transfer or a special event, rely on our professional chauffeurs and a fleet of top-tier vehicles for a VIP experience. Impeccable service, punctuality, and comfort are our priorities. Elevate your transportation with Hamptons VIP Ride. Book now for an unparalleled travel experience.

[legendslimonyc]

At Legends #Limousine Worldwide our #chauffeurs are always dressed to impress. Let us cater your next #wedding, #prom, or corporate event & experience the first-class service that you deserve.

Reserve your ride at www.legendslimousine.com or call 1-888-LEGENDS now.

#RideLegendary

[blissfullyecho]

2025 is:

Baccarat Rouge 540, La Perla lingerie, Chanel No. 5, caviar and oysters, first-class lounges, Soho House memberships, Hermès Birkins, Dior sunglasses, Van Cleef, Cartier, Tiffany, Ritz-Carlton spa days, Nobu dinners, St. Barts holidays, Pilates reformer classes, Montblanc pens, bulletproof coffee mornings, St. Regis afternoon tea, skiing in Aspen, sailing on a Sunseeker yacht, dating men wearing custom-tailored suits, handwritten thank-you notes written with custom stationery by Smythson, interior design consultations, negronis by the fireplace, silk pillowcases, cashmere throws, helicopter rides to the Hamptons, fine art auctions at Sotheby’s, private wine tastings in Napa, chef’s table dining experiences, Le Labo Santal 33, Rolls-Royce chauffeured rides, horseback riding in the English countryside, Ladurée macarons, Rolex watches, a Montauk beach house, Louboutin heels, afternoon reads of The Financial Times, medical-grade skincare routines, investing in blue-chip stocks, attending Paris Fashion Week, tennis matches at Wimbledon, and Courchevel ski chalets.

[darkfictionjude]

You mentioned that Luce has lived a life of luxury and I was wondering more about their lifestyle. Did they go to private school and/or have private tutors? Did their family summer at the Hamptons, have a membership at a country club, attend charity fundraisers, have drivers that drove them around NYC, own a yacht lol, etc.? Or is some of this stuff more WASP culture?

Also did wealthy mafia families mingle with old money families in New York or were they looked down upon/excluded for being new money and/or too overtly involved in crime (as opposed to white collar crime)?

Yeah private school was a thing, summers in Greece, tennis, parties held by important government officials, chauffeurs, yachts, private airplanes the whole jazz.

They did mingle but there were sneers and glares but never overt hostility due to fear of Antonio. The powerfully white families of the upper west side are good enough at turning the other cheek if they can get something out of it

[wellourgerdes]

Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace Tour – Luxury Chauffeur-Driven Day Trip

Private Chauffeur Driven Tours Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace Tour Luxury Chauffeur Driven Day Trip Explore two of England’s most iconic royal palaces in one unforgettable day with a private chauffeur-driven tour. Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest inhabited royal residence, offers a glimpse into British monarchy and history. Meanwhile, Hampton Court Palace, once home to King Henry…

[limoservicehampton]

Finding the Perfect Limousine Assistance

The Hamptons, an attractive paradise on Long Island South Fork, is synonymous with luxury, elegance, and style. Whether you’re planning a winery tour, attending a wedding, or simply need reliable airport transportation, hiring the right limousine or car service can elevate your experience. Here’s why choosing the perfect Hamptons Limo Service is essential and what to look for in a provider.

Why Hire a Limousine Assistant in the Hamptons?

Benefit and Comfort

Traveling the Hamptons’ busy summer streets or making your way from one event to another can be stressful. A professional limousine service allows you to relax, travel in style, and arrive at your destination refreshed.

Punctuality

Time is a luxury, and top-achieving car services understand the importance of prompt arrivals. Professional chauffeurs ensure you’re never late, whether it’s for flights or a special event.

Luxury

From large care to executive transportation, Hamptons limo services offer a range of vehicles that blend sophistication with comfort. These vehicles often come with premium characteristics like leather interiors, a complete package, and Wi-Fi.

Safety and Competence

When you book a limousine service, you gain the assurance of skilled drivers familiar with local routes. This ensures both safety and efficiency, allowing you to enjoy your trip without trouble.

Top Services to Think About

If you're looking for dependable transporting in the Hamptons, here are some services that stand out:

Hamptons Car:

A thorough-service provider specializing in wine tours and luxury airport transportation.

East Hampton Car Assistance:

Known for their executive black cars and sedans, perfect for corporate meetings or airport transportation.

Southampton Limo Firm:

Contributing customized packages for weddings, prom nights, and special events.

Hamptons Important Ride:

A versatile service catering to group travel, with vehicles spanning from sprinter vans to luxury stretch limousines.

Popular Occasions for Limo Assistance

Wine Tours

Explore the North Fork or Hamptons’ grapevines in a chauffeured limousine, enjoying tastings without the worry of driving.

Weddings and More

Make a grand entrance on your special day with a luxury limousine. Many companies also offer tailored packages to meet your wedding necessities.

Airport Transportation

Whether flying into JFK, LaGuardia, or Islip, limo services ensure smooth transfers to and from the Hamptons with luggage assistance and timely pick-ups.

Corporate Meeting

Impress your clients or colleagues with luxury transportation that reflects professionalism and trustworthiness.

Choosing the Right Limousine Assistance

When selecting a car service, consider the following factors:

Fleet of Vehicles:

Ensure the business offers the type of vehicle you need, from class sedans to stretch limousines.

Reputation:

Read reviews and testimonials to measure the quality of service.

Pricing:

Transparent pricing and no hidden fees are signs of a truthful provider.

Available Within 15 Minutes:

Make sure the company can accommodate your schedule and destination necessity.

Contact With the Best of the Hamptons

Whether it’s for a winery tour, a wedding, or simply exploring the scenery of East End, a limousine service adds a touch of elegance and ease to your journey. Companies in Southampton ensure you travel in luxury, offering unforgettable experiences tailored to your necessities.

Explore the Hamptons in style and make every moment memorable with professional limousine services. After all, nothing complements the charm of the Hamptons better than the luxuriousness of a premium ride.

[elitelimoli]

Experience the Pinnacle of Comfort and Luxury with Elite Limo LI’s Private Car Service on Long Island

Long Island, a picturesque haven stretching from the vibrant cityscape of New York City to the serene beaches of Montauk, is best experienced in style and comfort. For those seeking a premium travel experience, Elite Limo LI’s private car service offers unparalleled luxury, convenience, and reliability. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes our private car service the ultimate choice for discerning travelers on Long Island.

Unmatched Luxury and Comfort

At Elite Limo LI, we understand that luxury is about more than just a ride—it’s about the experience. Our fleet of vehicles is meticulously maintained and features a selection of high-end models to suit every preference. Whether you choose a sleek sedan, a spacious SUV, or a sophisticated limousine, you can expect plush interiors, cutting-edge amenities, and an immaculate presentation. Every ride with Elite Limo LI promises a sanctuary of comfort, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey.

Professional Chauffeurs

Our chauffeurs are more than just drivers; they are ambassadors of our commitment to excellence. Each chauffeur undergoes rigorous training to ensure they deliver the highest standards of service. Punctuality, discretion, and courtesy are the hallmarks of our team. With extensive knowledge of Long Island’s roads and traffic patterns, our chauffeurs ensure a smooth and efficient journey, whether you’re heading to a business meeting, a special event, or exploring the island’s attractions.

Personalized Service

We pride ourselves on offering personalized service tailored to meet your specific needs. From the moment you book with Elite Limo LI, our team works diligently to accommodate your preferences and requirements. Need a specific vehicle? Have special requests for amenities or stops along the way? Our team is dedicated to ensuring your complete satisfaction. We offer 24/7 customer support to assist with any changes or special requests, providing a seamless and stress-free experience.

Versatile Transportation Solutions

Elite Limo LI’s private car service is ideal for a wide range of occasions and purposes:

Airport Transfers: Begin or end your journey with a hassle-free airport transfer. We serve all major airports in the New York City area, including JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark, ensuring timely pickups and drop-offs.

Corporate Travel: Impress clients and colleagues with our executive car service. Arrive at meetings, conferences, and corporate events in style and on time.

Special Occasions: From weddings and proms to anniversaries and birthday celebrations, make your special moments even more memorable with our elegant transportation options.

Wine Tours: Explore Long Island’s renowned North Fork wine country with our customized wine tour packages. Enjoy the region’s best vineyards without worrying about driving.

Sightseeing and Leisure: Discover the beauty and attractions of Long Island with a private tour. Whether it’s the historic landmarks of Sag Harbor, the beaches of the Hamptons, or the charm of Port Jefferson, our chauffeurs will guide you to the best spots.

Safety and Reliability

Your safety is our top priority. Our vehicles are equipped with the latest safety features and undergo regular maintenance checks to ensure optimal performance. Our chauffeurs adhere to all safety regulations and best practices, providing a secure and reliable journey. Additionally, we utilize real-time traffic monitoring and GPS tracking to avoid delays and ensure timely arrivals.

Easy Booking and Transparent Pricing

Booking with Elite Limo LI is simple and convenient. Our user-friendly online reservation system allows you to book your ride in just a few clicks. Alternatively, our customer service team is always available to assist with reservations over the phone. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees, so you can plan your travel budget with confidence.

Experience the Elite Difference

When you choose Elite Limo LI’s private car service, you’re choosing a commitment to excellence in every aspect of your journey. From luxurious vehicles and professional chauffeurs to personalized service and a focus on safety, we strive to exceed your expectations. Discover the elite difference and elevate your travel experience on Long Island. Book your private car service today and experience the pinnacle of comfort and luxury.

[ridesoho]

MacArthur Airport Car Service: The Ultimate Guide to Convenient and Comfortable Travel

Traveling to or from MacArthur Airport can be a stressful experience without the right transportation plan. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a business traveler, or a vacationer, choosing the right car service is a game-changer. In this guide, we’ll explore why MacArthur Airport car services are the best choice for seamless and comfortable travel, what to look for in a top-notch car service, and how to make the most of your journey.

Why Choose a Car Service for MacArthur Airport?

1. Stress-Free Travel Experience

Navigating through traffic, finding parking, and hauling luggage can turn a simple trip into a logistical nightmare. A professional car service eliminates these hassles, allowing you to relax and focus on your journey.

2. Punctuality Is Guaranteed

Car services specialize in timeliness. With advanced tracking technology, they monitor your flight and ensure you’re picked up and dropped off right on schedule, regardless of delays or early arrivals.

3. Luxury and Comfort

Most car services offer a fleet of premium vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and even limousines. These vehicles are equipped with plush interiors, climate control, and amenities that elevate your travel experience.

4. Professional Drivers

Licensed and experienced chauffeurs ensure your ride is not just smooth but also safe. They are familiar with the best routes, avoiding traffic congestion and roadblocks.

What to Look for in a MacArthur Airport Car Service

1. Fleet Options

A reliable car service should offer a variety of vehicles to match your needs—whether it’s a solo business trip, a family vacation, or a group outing. Look for companies that maintain their vehicles impeccably for maximum reliability and comfort.

2. Transparent Pricing

Pricing should be clear with no hidden fees. Top providers often offer a flat-rate pricing structure for airport transfers, so you know exactly what to expect.

3. Easy Booking Process

The best car services feature user-friendly online booking platforms or apps. Being able to book, track, and modify your reservation with ease is a major advantage.

4. 24/7 Availability

Flights operate around the clock, so your car service should too. Choose a provider that offers round-the-clock service, ensuring you have a ride whenever you need it.

5. Positive Reviews and Reputation

Check customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of service. A company with a strong track record of satisfied clients is more likely to meet your expectations.

Benefits of Booking a MacArthur Airport Car Service in Advance

1. Guaranteed Availability

Booking ahead secures your ride, especially during peak travel seasons when transportation demand spikes.

2. Peace of Mind

Knowing your transportation is pre-arranged allows you to focus on your travel plans without last-minute scrambling.

3. Customized Service

Advanced bookings often allow you to specify preferences, such as the type of vehicle or additional amenities like Wi-Fi or refreshments.

Top Destinations Served by MacArthur Airport Car Services

A quality car service doesn’t just take you to and from the airport; it connects you to the most popular destinations around the region, including:

• New York City: Enjoy a smooth and luxurious ride to the heart of the Big Apple.

• The Hamptons: Travel in style to this iconic getaway destination.

• Long Island’s Wineries: Indulge in a scenic drive to enjoy wine tastings and vineyard tours.

• Connecticut and New Jersey: Reach nearby states effortlessly for business or leisure.

Tips for a Perfect Car Service Experience

1. Provide Accurate Flight Details

Share your flight number and schedule during booking so the service can track your flight and adjust pickup times accordingly.

2. Confirm Your Reservation

Double-check your booking details to ensure everything is accurate, from the pickup time to the vehicle type.

3. Be Ready for Pickup

To keep the process smooth, have your belongings packed and ready before the driver arrives.

4. Communicate Special Requests

Need child seats, extra luggage space, or a specific vehicle? Inform the car service in advance so they can accommodate your needs.

Why MacArthur Airport Car Service Outshines Rideshares

While rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are popular, they lack the reliability, professionalism, and luxury of a dedicated car service. Here’s why a car service is the superior choice:

1. Fixed Rates: Car services offer transparent pricing, while rideshare prices fluctuate due to surge pricing.

2. Trained Chauffeurs: Unlike rideshare drivers, chauffeurs are extensively trained to prioritize safety, comfort, and professionalism.

3. Premium Vehicles: Car services feature well-maintained luxury cars, ensuring a high-quality ride every time.

4. Dependability: Car services are more reliable, especially for early-morning or late-night flights when rideshares might be scarce.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Travel with MacArthur Airport Car Service

MacArthur Airport car services redefine the travel experience by offering unmatched convenience, luxury, and professionalism. Whether you’re heading to a business meeting, a family vacation, or a special event, investing in a top-tier car service ensures your journey is smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable.

Next time you’re traveling to or from MacArthur Airport, consider booking a car service that matches your needs and elevates your experience. Because in the world of travel, the journey should be as remarkable as the destination.

[hamptons-vip-ride]

How to Choose the Best Car Service in Westhampton

1. Look for Professional Chauffeurs

One of the key factors when choosing a Westhampton car service is the professionalism of the chauffeurs. You want to ensure that the drivers are punctual, knowledgeable about the best routes, and maintain a polite behavior throughout the ride. Hamptons VIP Ride offers expert Westhampton chauffeur services that cater to your specific needs, ensuring a smooth and stress-free journey.

2. Vehicle Quality and Variety

Make sure the service offers a wide variety of well-maintained vehicles. Whether you prefer a luxury sedan, SUV, or sprinter van, you should have options that cater to your style and comfort. We provides a range of top-tier vehicles to choose from, ensuring that you can find the perfect fit for your trip.

3. Convenient Airport Transfers

If you need to travel between Westhampton to LaGuardia it's essential to choose a service that specializes in airport transfers. Reliable car services should be able to track your flight and adjust pick-up times as necessary, ensuring timely arrivals and departures.

4. Flexibility and Customization

A great car service should be flexible and able to accommodate your schedule and travel preferences. Whether you need a one-way trip or round-trip service, a top car service like Hamptons VIP Ride can customize the ride according to your needs. You can also schedule a personal driver for your special events or corporate needs.

5. Competitive Pricing and Excellent Customer Service

Finally, pricing is always a consideration. Look for a Westhampton car service that offers competitive rates without compromising on quality or service. We provides transparent pricing, excellent customer service, and no hidden fees, ensuring a worry-free experience for every trip.

Choosing the right Westhampton car service involves considering factors such as chauffeur professionalism, vehicle quality, flexibility, and pricing. With Hamptons VIP Ride, you can be assured of a premium experience for airport transfers and local travel in Westhampton.

[nycstatelimous]

Luxury Travel with Limo NYC: Seamless Journeys from NYC to the Hamptons

In the bustling heart of New York City, where time is a valuable commodity and style is non-negotiable, the allure of luxury travel takes center stage. Among the myriad options available, Limo NYC emerges as the epitome of sophistication, offering an unparalleled experience that extends beyond mere transportation. With an array of services tailored to meet the discerning needs of clientele, the journey from NYC to the Hamptons becomes an affair to remember.

The Essence of Limo NYC: Unmatched Elegance and Comfort

When it comes to limousine services, Limo NYC stands out for its commitment to excellence. The fleet boasts a collection of meticulously maintained vehicles that redefine luxury travel. From sleek sedans to spacious SUVs, each vehicle is a testament to both style and substance. The interiors are designed with comfort in mind, featuring plush leather seats, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and amenities that cater to the most discerning passengers.

Embarking on a journey from NYC to Hamptons car service with Limo NYC is not just a means of transportation; it's a statement of refined taste and an investment in an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a business executive seeking a seamless ride or a couple celebrating a special occasion, Limo NYC ensures that every moment of the journey is marked by elegance and comfort.

NYC to Hamptons Car Service: Punctuality Redefined

One of the distinguishing features of Limo NYC is its unwavering commitment to punctuality. The team understands the importance of time, especially for busy professionals and those with tight schedules. The NYC to Hamptons car service is meticulously planned, ensuring that passengers reach their destination promptly without compromising on the luxurious experience.

The chauffeurs at Limo NYC are not just drivers; they are seasoned professionals who prioritize safety, courtesy, and efficiency. With an in-depth knowledge of the routes and a dedication to providing a smooth ride, they elevate the entire travel experience. Passengers can relax and enjoy the scenic journey from NYC to the Hamptons, confident in the knowledge that they are in capable hands.

Point to Point Limo: Effortless Convenience

For those seeking a hassle-free travel experience, Limo NYC's point to point limo service is the epitome of convenience. Whether it's a business meeting, a social event, or a leisurely getaway, the point-to-point service caters to the unique needs of each passenger. The seamless transition from pick-up to drop-off allows individuals to focus on their priorities while leaving the intricacies of travel in the capable hands of Limo NYC.

[havewereadthis]

"Jende Jonga, a Cameroonian immigrant living in Harlem, has come to the United States to provide a better life for himself, his wife, Neni, and their six-year-old son. In the fall of 2007, Jende can hardly believe his luck when he lands a job as a chauffeur for Clark Edwards, a senior executive at Lehman Brothers. Clark demands punctuality, discretion, and loyalty—and Jende is eager to please. Clark’s wife, Cindy, even offers Neni temporary work at the Edwardses’ summer home in the Hamptons. With these opportunities, Jende and Neni can at last gain a foothold in America and imagine a brighter future.

However, the world of great power and privilege conceals troubling secrets, and soon Jende and Neni notice cracks in their employers’ façades.

When the financial world is rocked by the collapse of Lehman Brothers, the Jongas are desperate to keep Jende’s job—even as their marriage threatens to fall apart. As all four lives are dramatically upended, Jende and Neni are forced to make an impossible choice."

[jpbjazz]

LÉGENDES DU JAZZ

JAKI BYARD, DE LA TRADITION À LA MODERNITÉ

‘’Jaki had all these toys and whistles and bells and things that he was playing from the piano, and also screaming and yelling from the piano in joy. I remember thinking, 'This guy's out of his mind.' After the set, I went up to him, introduced myself, and said that I would be studying with him. He said something to the effect of, 'get ready'.’’

- Jason Moran

Né le 15 juin 1922 à Worcester, au Massachusetts, John Arthur ‘’Jaki’’ Byard Jr.  était le fils de John Byard Sr. et de Geraldine Garr. Byard est issu d’une famille de musiciens. Le père de Byard, qui était chauffeur de profession, avait joué de la trompette et du trombone dans des ensembles de corps et clairons au début du siècle. Au début des années 1920, John Byard Sr. avait aussi été membre du premier groupe de jazz professionnel de Worcester, le Mamie Moffit and Her Five Jazz Hounds. À la fin des années 1920, lorsque l’orchestre était passé sous la direction du batteur Boots Ward et avait changé de nom pour devenir les Nite Hawks, John Sr. en faisait toujours partie.

JEUNESSE ET ÉDUCATION

Né le 2 septembre 1897 à Truro, en Nouvelle-Écosse, John Byard Sr. était le fils de William H. Byard et de Jessie Martin. Il est mort à Oak Bluffs, au Massachusetts en 1968. Jaki expliquait: "My father played bass horn, trumpet. As a matter of fact, that's how I learned to play. He showed me how to finger the trumpet."

En 1921, John Sr. avait épousé Geraldine M. Garr. Né à Norwich, au Connecticut, en 1899, Geraldine était la fille de Craig Garr et de Malvina Hannibal, une pianiste qui jouait dans les cinémas lors de la projection de films muets. Dans sa notice biographique sur Byard, le New England Conservatory of Music écrivait: "As silent picture shows were replaced with the technological advances of the 'talkies,' or movies with their own sound, her job grew obsolete and she was able to bring the piano from the silent movie house to their home." Byard confirmait: "My grandmother used to play. She used to play for the movie houses. That's how we got the piano, because after the [silent] movie industry folded up, they gave her the piano. And my grandmother gave my mother the piano. They put the piano in my house and that's how I got started." C’est d’ailleurs sa grand-mère Malvina qui avait encouragé Jaki à faire une carrière musicale.  La mère de Jaki, qui gagnait sa vie en travaillant dans une confiserie, a joué du piano à l’African Methodist Episcopalian Zion Church.

Jaki avait grandi à Worcester dans de quartier afro-américain de Laurel/Clayton. Plusieurs musiciens de jazz étaient originaires de Worcester, comme Wendell Culley, qui avait joué de la trompette dans les grands orchestres de Noble Sissle, Cab Calloway, Lionel Hampton et Count Basie. Culley était aussi l’auteur de plusieurs classiques du jazz comme ‘’Lil’ Darlin.’’ Culley avait une soeur, Zara, une actrice qui s’était fait connaître dans le rôle de la mère de George Jefferson dans le feuilleton du réseau CBS, The Jeffersons. Parmi les autres musiciens de jazz qui avaient connu Byard à Worcester, on relevait les noms d’Emil Haddad, Barbara Carroll, Don Asher, Don Fagerquist et Harry Sheppard. Tous ces musiciens avaient plus tard reconnu avoir été fortement influencés par Byard.

Jaki avait commencé à jouer du piano à l’âge de six ans. Après que son père lui ait fait cadeau de sa trompette, Jaki avait tenté d’imiter les meilleurs trompettistes de l’époque, comme Roy Eldridge et Walter Fuller. Jaki avait huit ans lorsqu’une professeure de piano nommée Grace Johnson avait commencé à lui donner des leçons.

La mère de Jaki avait aussi encouragé son intérêt pour la musique. Elle le laissait écouter du jazz à la radio et lui prêtait de l’argent pour qu’il puisse assister à des concerts de jazz lorsque des musiciens étaient de passage dans la région. Jaki avait un frère, William, et une soeur, Jesse.

Jaki était tellement passionné par le jazz qu’il se rendait souvent à pied jusqu’au lac Quinsigamond pour aller entendre les grands orchestres de Benny Goodman, Lucky Millinder, Fats Waller et Chick Webb. Il écoutait aussi énormément la radio. Des décennies plus tard, Byard avait expliqué: ‘’Those were the things that inspired me – I guess it stuck with me". Dans une autre entrevue, Byard avait précisé:

"My mother used to give me seventy-five cents to go see the bands that were playing at Quinsigamond Lake---ten cents for the streetcar each way, fifty cents to get into the dance, five cents for a coke. I would walk to the dance so that I could drink five cokes. I'd stand in front of the band all night and listen. Fats Waller, Lucky Millinder, Chick Webb with Ella Fitzgerald, the Benny Goodman Quartet with Teddy Wilson, Lionel Hampton, and Gene Krupa. That would be about 1936. And I was tuning in on the radio broadcasts of the big bands from hotels, 11:30 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Ellington, Basie, Fatha Hines, Jimmie Lunceford, Benny Carter. Those were the things that inspired me.’’

À l’époque, les musiciens de jazz favoris de Byard étaient Earl Hines, Jimmie Lunceford et Count Basie. Byard avait ajouté:

"Of course there was Stan Kenton, Woody Herman and that crew. Teddy Wilson was a favorite too. He was with Benny Goodman. My father used to listen to him every night. He'd say, 'Come here and listen to this man. Do you know who he is?' 'Yeah, I know who he is.' 'Do you know what he is?' I'd say, 'What?' He'd say, 'He's us—he's a colored boy.' He didn't say ‘black’ then."

Après avoir fréquenté la Elizabeth Street School, Byard avait poursuivi ses études au Commerce High School. Byard n’avait jamais reçu de formation musicale proprement dite, même s’il avait étudié l’harmonie en 1941 au Commerce High School. Selon Robert Bliss, c’est à cette époque que Byard aurait décidé d’étudier non seulement l’harmonie et l’orchestration, mais d’apprendre à jouer de plusieurs instruments. Bliss expliquait:

 "He figured this was the way to learn that range and color of the primary jazz instruments—trumpet, saxophone, and drums. He picked up other instruments along the way—the guitar, violin, vibes, and bass." En plus de jouer de plusieurs instruments de musique, Jaki excellait également au basketball.

Jaki a amorcé sa carrière professionnelle à l’âge de seize ans en jouant du piano dans les groupes de Doc Kendross et Freddy Bates. Comme Jaki l’avait expliqué dans une entrevue accordée au Worcester Magazine, "One of my first gigs was in Grafton with a guy named Doc Kentross (dentist). The day I made the gig I came running out of the high school and fell on my hand. I had to get six stitches and played that night."Les Nite Hawks de Freddy Bates se produisaient régulièrement au Nile Café sur Summer Street, un établissement qui se vantait d’être le premier club de jazz opéré par des Afro-Américains. Byard avait précisé: "There was a guy named Pete Price (pianist). I took his place. I was about 18 years old. We used to play up in Holyoke, Springfield … on the road."

UN LABORATOIRE: LE SAX-TRUM

Fondé en 1938 par Jes saxophonistes Howie Jefferson, Barney Price et d’autres musiciens de jazz de Worcester comme Jaki Byard, Dick Murray, Ralph Briscott, Ed Shamgochian et Harold Black, le Saxtrum Club est considéré comme un des premiers collectifs de jazz opéré par des musiciens de couleur aux États-Unis. Durant près d’une décennie, la coopérative avait accueilli de nombreuses jam sessions et était rapidement devenue le centre de ralliement de plusieurs artistes locaux, régionaux et nationaux.

Décrit par Rockie Blunt comme un petit club mal éclairé, le Saxtrum Club était situé à l’intersection des rues Glenn et Clayton. Le principal objectif de la fondation du club était de fournir un lieu aux musiciens de jazz pour tenir des jam sessions. Lors d’une entrevue accordée en 1998 au Worcester Magazine, Byard prétendait avoir créé ce nom en juxtaposant les premières lettres des instruments des deux principaux fondateurs du club, le saxophone et la trompette. Il précisait: "Yeah, that's my name. I named that club: Sax-trum. First, it was a small candy shop. Then we moved it to another place that was a soda shop—a big room. Saxtrum club, yeah! We used to jam."

Byard avait déclaré au sujet de Jefferson, qui était de huit ans son aîné: "Yeah, Howie Jefferson. He's sort of my mentor, you know. He's the one that brought me into this business. He's the one that got me to play trumpet with the Nite Hawks. Then the piano player quit, so they asked me to play because I used to tinkle around a bit. So I ended up playing piano."

Selon Rockie Blunt, d’autres musiciens de jazz originaires de Worcester comme Barbara Carroll, Don Asher, Emil Haddad et Don Fagerquist étaient des habitués du club. Parmi les autres musiciens locaux qui participaient aux jam sessions, on relevait les noms de Rockie Blunt, Tony Finelli, Rod Ford, Gretchen Morrow, Bill Toney, Franny O'Connor, Eddie Dolbare, "Miff" George, Kenny Proctor, Alice Price, Pete Price, Bobby Hold, Dave Robertson, Joe Ferrazano, Phil Scott, Murray Guralnick, Al Mercury, Hal Drellinger, Moe Batchelder, Bert Hardin, Morgan Sorrell, Dick Hill, Chet Lavallee et Don Fancy.

Selon Blunt, il s’agissait d’une des premières tentatives visant à éliminer les barrières raciales non écrites entre les musiciens de couleur et les musiciens blancs.

Plus la réputation du club augmentait, plus il commençait à attirer de gros noms. Parmi les ‘’grosses pointures’’ qui avaient participé aux jam sessions, on remarquait Gene Krupa, Cozy Cole, le percussionniste de l’orchestre de Cab Calloway, "Chu" Berry, le saxophoniste ténor de Calloway, Roy Eldridge, le trompettiste de l’orchestre de Gene Krupa, Charlie Ventura, les chefs d’orchestre Tommy Reynolds, Sam Donahue et Johnny ‘’Scats’’ Davis, sans parler des musiciens de Duke Ellington et de Count Basie. Blunt poursuivait:

"And the sessions lasted until dawn when the younger jazz musicians finally went home, cleaned up, ate and went off to school ... and the bi-timers collapsed into their hotel rooms to rest for the next day's three live shows. It was a time of truly almost perpetual music. The exhaustion factor never entered the picture. Musicians lived, ate, breathed and were almost totally consumed by their music."

Lorsqu’on lui parlait des jam sessions qui avaient lieu aux SaxTrum, Byard répondait: "Oh, yeah, practice—played, played and played. We got a hold of a piano and that was it. And we had a jukebox. We used to run rent-socials to pay rent. $3 admission. We had a drum set there."

Byard a aussi travaillé avec un groupe de pratique au Saxtrum, le Sal-Salah. Le nom du groupe était une contraction des noms des trompettistes Sal Siam et Bob Salah. Byard précisait:"I played piano with that band. It was pretty interesting, pretty interesting musical ventures, then." Parmi les autres membres du groupe, on retrouvait Dick Reed, Paul Gervais, John Milocz, Harold Black, Cal Gould, Paul Benson, Al Bond, la chanteuse Janet Athy et Murray Guralnick, un futur membre de l’orchestre de Gene Krupa. Selon la Prospect House, le groupe se serait également produit dans les salles de danse de Danny Dugan et Johnny Hines, dans la basse-ville de Worcester.

C’est d’ailleurs en travaillant avec Sal-Salah que Byard avait acquis la confiance qui lui avait permis de continuer à composer et d’écrire des arrangements. Il expliquait: "I remember doing Earl 'Fatha' Hines arrangement of 'You Can Depend on Me' and Jimmie Lunceford's 'Chopin's Prelude'''.

Selon Byard, la ville de Worcester offrait un environnement idéal aux amateurs de jazz. D’après Asher, le dimanche après-midi au Plymouth Theater, "you could see a movie, the Fats Waller sextet, and a stage show back by the Charlie Barnet or one of the Dorseys [Tommy and Jimmy]—for 50 cents."

Selon le saxophoniste Michael Marcus, qui avait joué avec Byard dans les dernières années de sa vie, même Cecil Taylor serait venu le voir à jouer à Worcester. Marcus expliquait: “Cecil’s father used to bring Cecil to hear Jaki when he was like 16 years old.” Marcus citait aussi une déclaration de Byard dans laquelle il se vantait d’avoir inventé le free jazz. Selon Marcus, Byard aurait affirmé: “Man Cecil Taylor, I invented that style of playing. I would play that style [James P. Johnson, Erroll Garner, Earl Hines] with my left hand and then I’d play Charles Ives and Stravinsky in my right. I was playing free like that 10 years before Cecil. I invented that style.”

Si Cecil Taylor avait été influencé par Byard, c’était surtout dans son utilisation de l’atonalité, car Taylor a joué très peu de swing et absolument aucun stride. Quoi qu’il en soit, les sympathies de Byard pour les oeuvres de Charles Ives et d’Igor Stravinsky lui avaient été d’une aide précieuse lorsqu’il s’était installé à New York et avait rejoint les rangs de l’avant-garde au début des années 1960.

DÉBUTS DE CARRIÈRE

En 1941, dans l’espoir de faire avancer sa carrière, Jaki avait quitté Worcester pour aller s’installer à Boston. Devenu musicien à plein temps, Byard était maintenant prêt à élargir ses horizons au-delà des limites étroites de sa ville natale de Worcester. Comme l’écrivait Don Asher, "Jaki Byard had split for Boston and more challenging vistas – we had all known his talent was too large for Worcester; the only surprise was that he had stayed so long…"

Après l’attaque de Pearl Harbor de décembre 1941, Byard avait été mobilisé par l’armée. Après avoir rencontré des musiciens qui avaient également été mobilisés comme le batteur Kenny Clarke et le pianiste Ernie Washington, Byard avait décidé de se joindre au groupe de l’armée. Cependant, comme ce dernier avait déjà un pianiste, Byard avait dû se replier sur le trombone. C’est donc un peu par la force des choses que Byard avait commencé sa carrière de multi-instrumentiste.

Au cours de son séjour dans l’armée, Byard avait continué de suivre des cours de piano. Durant cette période, Byard avait été particulièrement influencé par le pianiste Ernie Washington, avec qui il partageait les mêmes barraquements. Byard avait effectué une partie de son service militaire en Floride, où il avait servi de mentor au jeune saxophoniste Cannonball Adderley et à son frère, le trompettiste Nat Adderley.

Après avoir été démobilisé en 1946, Byard était retourné à Boston, où il avait étudié la musique en autodidacte, en concentrant plus particulièrement sur le travail de ses deux pianistes favoris, Bud Powell et Erroll Garner. Après avoir joué durant deux ans avec le violoniste Ray Perry, Byard avait collaboré avec le violoniste et trompettiste Ray Nance, qui l’avait encouragé à apprendre le saxophone ténor. En 1947, Byard avait fait partie du groupe du saxophoniste alto Earl Bostic. Byard avait alors formé un groupe de bebop avec Joe Gordon et Sam Rivers.

La découverte du bebop avait été toute une révélation pour Byard. Il expliquait: “I remember being on a Bud Powell kick at about twenty five years old. That’s when I decided to get into music more and listen to everything. Bebop was an age of revelation. It made everyone want to study more.”

Après être parti en tournée durant un an, Byard avait travaillé durant un an avec le saxophoniste Charlie Mariano dans un groupe qui jouait près de Lynn, au Massachusetts. Byard avait enregistré un album avec le groupe en 1953. De 1952 à 1955, Byard avait aussi été membre du grand orchestre d’Herb Pomeroy comme saxophoniste ténor, avec qui il avait enregistré en 1957. Byard avait également commencé à composer et à écrire des arrangements pour le groupe.  Au milieu des années 1950, Byard avait aussi joué comme pianiste solo à Boston. Très en demande comme musicien, Byard avait également commencé à enseigner, même s’il n’avait jamais eu de formation académique formelle lui-même.

Après quelques années, Byard avait recommencé à jouer du piano en solo. Il s’était installé à New York où il avait enregistré en décembre 1960 un premier album sous son nom intitulé ‘’Blues for Smoke.’’ L’album n’avait été publié aux États-Unis qu’en 1988.

De 1959 à 19620, Byard avait aussi joué avec le groupe de Maynard Ferguson. Même si Byard était un des musiciens et arrangeurs préférés de Ferguson, il s’était senti à l’étroit dans la formation, car ses tentatives d’expérimentation étaient souvent limitées par les goûts plutôt traditionnels des autres membres du groupe.

En 1960, Byard s’était joint au groupe de Charles Mingus. Mingus avait exercé une grande influence sur Byard, car il le poussait constamment à expérimenter de nouveaux rythmes et harmonies. Byard, qui avait enregistré plusieurs albums avec Mingus, était devenu un de ses pianistes les plus réguliers avec Don Pullen. Dans les notes de l’album de Mingus ‘’Portrait’’, Byard avait décrit sa première rencontre avec Mingus. Il écrivait:

‘’I first met Mingus in 1956 in the Athens of America — Boston. He was appearing at a joint on Commonwealth Avenue called Storyville. I was at the joint across the street. Its formal name was The Stables, but we used to call it the Jazz Workshop. Tuesdays and Thursdays, I played tenor sax with Herb Pomeroy’s big band; the other nights, I played intermission piano. Mingus and his sidemen would drop by frequently — to check us out, I guess. Since his group was called the “Jazz Workshop,” of course there had to be a few words with regard to who had a better right to use that title. The matter was usually discussed by Mingus and Varty Haratunian, who was sort of the coordinator of financial affairs at The Stables. Even during an argument, their conversations were conducted very intelligently: For example, Varty might explain that our group was actually the “Jass Workshop,” to which Mingus would respond “Yeah, take the ‘J’ off and that’s what you have for a workshop!”

Loin de s’intéresser uniquement au jazz, Byard avait continué d’étudier les oeuvres des compositeurs classiques au cours des années 1960, et plus particulièrement celles de Stravinsky et Chopin. Au cours de sa carrière, Byard s’était également intéressé aux oeuvres d’autres compositeurs classiques comme Debussy, Rachmaninoff et Bartok.

En 1960, Byard avait aussi collaboré à l’enregistrement du disque du multi-instrumentiste Eric Dolphy intitulé ‘’Outward Bound.’’ Byard avait écrit au sujet de Dolphy:

‘’What can I say about this gentleman? His mind, as you can hear, was very active, musically intelligent, innovative, and emphatically involved with precision and decision. Eric was not only multi-faceted in his musical approach, but was also a most introspective individual. His thoughts, harmonically and melodically, were always on top of the chord of the seventh, especially on alto. We had many conversations about this intriguing approach to improvisation. (I could go into the technical aspects of this subject, but this would probably involve writing a whole book!) Without doubt, we were always ready to go into space together — from my very first musical association with Eric, when I played piano on his first album, Outward Bound. Actually Eric was largely responsible for me becoming involved in the recording industry and joining the Mingus Dynasty.’’

C’est d’ailleurs Dolphy qui avait aidé Byard à signer un contrat avec les disques Prestige. Cettte collaboration avait donné lieu à la publication de l’album ‘’Here’s Jaki’’ en 1961. Plusieurs des albums enregistrés par Byard avec Prestige mettaient en vedette le contrebassiste Richard Davis et le batteur Alan Dawson. Le trio avait été décrit par le critique Gary Giddins comme "the most commanding rhythm section of the '60s, excepting the Hancock-Carter-Williams trio in Miles Davis's band", même s’il n’existait alors que sur disque.

Parmi les autres albums enregistrés par Byard à cette époque, on remarquait ‘’Jaki Byard With Strings !’’, un album en sextet qui mettait en vedette les compositions et les arrangements du pianiste. Les capacités novatrices de Byard étaient particulièrement évidentes sur la pièce "Cat's Cradle Conference Rag", dans laquelle les musiciens du groupe interprétaient cinq standards ‘’based on similar harmonies simultaneously". Un autre exemple de l’approche parfois inhabituelle de Byard face à la composition se retrouvait dans la pièce-titre de l’album ‘’Out Front !’’, qu’il avait écrite en pensant à la façon de jouer de son collègue pianiste Herbie Nichols. Même si la musique de Byard était très appréciée des critiques, cette popularité ne semble pas s’être reflétée sur les ventes de disques.

Parallèlement à sa carrière en tant que leader de ses propres formations, Byard avait également continué de collaborer avec d’autres musiciens. En 1963, Byard avait joué et enregistré avec le saxophoniste ténor Booker Ervin. Byard a aussi collaboré avec d’autres grands musiciens de jazz comme Don Ellis, Charlie Mariano et Booker Little. En 1965, Byard avait travaillé avec un autre collaborateur de Mingus, le multi-instrumentiste Rahsaan Roland Kirk. Byard avait également continué de collaborer avec Mingus, notamment lors de l’enregistrement des albums ‘’The Complete Town Hall Concert’’ (1962), ‘’Mingus, Mingus, Mingus’’ (1963) et ‘’The Black Saint and the Sinner Lady’’ (1963). Byard avait aussi fait une tournée en Europe avec Mingus en 1964. En 1970, Byard était d’ailleurs retourné jouer avec Mingus, notamment dans le cadre d’une autre tournée en Europe. Faisant le bilan de sa collaboration avec Mingus, Byard écrivait:

‘’My entire association with Charles Mingus was an honor and a treat — including all the moods, temperaments, personality clashes, cooperation, and feelings of accomplishment and self-gratification. I can’t find any superlatives strong enough to define what those years meant to me. I left Mingus in 1968 primarily because of domestic obligations, and also because I felt an urge to pursue in my own ways some obligatory missionary work in the growing jazz community. But I continued to appear with him, off and on, until 1976.’’

Lors d’un séjour en Europe en 1970, Byard s’était joint aux Jazz Messengers d’Art Blakey dans le cadre d’une série de concerts sur le continent. Deux ans plus tard, Byard avait fait partie d’un petit groupe dirigé par le batteur Elvin Jones. De 1966 à 1969, Byard avait aussi enregistré trois albums avec le saxophoniste Eric Kloss.

Après avoir remporté en 1966 le prix  du magazine Down Beat décerné au musicien le plus prometteur, Byard s’était joint en 1969 au New England Conservatory à l’invitation de son président, le chef d’orchestre et historien Gunther Schuller, qui l’avait chargé de prendre la direction des études de jazz, qui deviendrait plus tard l’Afro-American Music and Jazz Studies Department. Byard avait continué d’enseigner au Conservatoire jusqu’en 1977. Byard donnait aussi des cours et des lectures dans d’autres écoles et universités, comme la Manhattan School of Music (1989-1999), la New School for Social Research de New York, le Bennington College, la Hartford School of Music, le Brooklyn Conservatory, l’Université du Massachusetts, l’Université Harvard (où il fit aussi des lectures durant trois ans), l’Université de Pittsburgh, l’Université du Maryland, la Hartt School of Music (à partir de 1975), la New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music et le Bismark Jr. College. Byard donnait également des cours privés.

DERNIÈRES ANNÉES

Lorsque Duke Ellington était tombé malade en 1974, son fils Mercer avait demandé à Byard de prendre sa place au sein de l’orchestre. Byard avait d’ailleurs reçu le Duke Ellington Fellowship Award de l’Université Harvard en 1973. La Duke Ellington Society lui avait aussi décerné un prix pour la qualité de ses performances.

Au milieu des années 1970, Byard avait décidé de former un big band parmi ses étudiants. Surnommé les Apollo Stompers, l’orchestre se produisait au Ali’s Alley, un club de la basse-ville de New York, lorsqu’il avait été élu meilleur groupe résident de la ville.

À un certain moment, Byard avait créé deux groupes parmi ses étudiants du New England Conservatory of Music, chacun des groupes devant prendre place sur des côtés opposés de la scène. Lors d’une entrevue accordée à Royal Stokes, Byard avait expliqué en plaisantant: "I called it the Stereophonic Ensemble, and the effect was very interesting because I could bring that band down and this band up and you could hear the difference---just like listening to a stereophonic performance. That was one of my dreams." Par la suite, Byard avait décidé de créer un autre big band avec des musiciens qu’il connaissait à New York.

Reconnu pour ses connaissances de l’histoire du piano jazz, Byard avait formé plusieurs jeunes pianistes prometteurs comme Jason Moran, Larry Goldings, D.D. Jackson, Hal Galper, Bruce Barth, Myra Melford, Alan Pasqua, Ted Rosenthal, Joel Weiskopf et Steve Wilson. Byard a aussi influencé plusieurs non-pianistes, comme les saxophonistes Jamie Baum, Sue Terry, Marty Ehrlich, Ricky Ford et Michael Moore. 

Moran s’était inscrit à la Manhattan School of Music  expressément pour étudier avec Byard. Moran, qui avait succédé au pianiste Billy Taylor comme directeur du département du jazz du Kennedy Center de Washington, D.C., raconte comment il avait rencontré pour la première fois Byard lors d’une performance des Apollo Stompers:

‘’Jaki had all these toys and whistles and bells and things that he was playing from the piano, and also screaming and yelling from the piano in joy. I remember thinking, 'This guy's out of his mind.' After the set, I went up to him, introduced myself, and said that I would be studying with him. He said something to the effect of, 'get ready'.’’

Moran avait étudié avec Byard durant quatre ans. Moran a toujours été reconnaissant envers Byard pour l’avoir aidé à développé ses habilités, sa connaissance de l’histoire du jazz, ainsi que son désir d’expérimenter différents styles musicaux. Il expliquait:

“Jaki Byard seemed to represent everything-- all tradition, all modernism, all conceptual ideas-- and also have the facility to apply all of it without it ever feeling odd. He kind of taught me in that way: He taught me tradition and history without wagging his finger in my face.”

Sans Byard, Moran n’aurait probablement jamais enregistré son album de 2014 intitulé "All Rise: A Joyful Elegy", un disque louangé par la critique sur lequel il interprète des versions actualisées des classiques de Fats Waller.

Un autre étudiant, Fred Hersch, avait décrit Byard comme un enseignant à la fois organisé et chaotique: s’il faisait durement travailler ses étudiants, Byard avait souvent un comportement assez excentrique et oubliait même parfois qu’il devait se présenter à ses cours. Hersch, qui a été mis en candidature à douze reprises pour un prix Grammy, avait ajouté:

‘’He could play like Fats Waller or Bud Powell and demonstrate the mechanics of each technique. He had a profound and detailed understanding of why each pianist sounded the way he did—to this day I'm not sure where he got such vast knowledge. For that ability alone he was ideally suited to teaching. He was also funny as hell and great company. He taught from the deep well of experience he had accumulated over many years as a professional musician—he had a lot to teach . . .

I learned a lot from Jaki simply being in his presence. As a musician and as a person his spirit was fearless—he didn't let stylistic constrictions get in his way of playing whatever he felt—and he was not the least bit ostentatious. He had an unmanicured view of jazz and life in general [...].

In the course of a lesson with me, he might play in half a dozen styles. But no matter what tune he played or what style he played in, the music was definitely his. Jaki had his own approach to line, to rhythm, to color, and to touch. I learned quite a lot from watching him over the keyboard, playing piano duets with him, and just simply listening to him . . . what I took away from Jaki was what I learned being next to him while he played, watching him use the whole instrument, top to bottom, style by style, in a way that always had his own musical signature.’’

Le compositeur classique Bruce Wolosoff, qui a suivi les cours de Byard au New England Conservatory of Music, le considérait également comme un de ses plus importantes influences. Le pianiste et auteur-compositeur Grayson Hugh a aussi étudié avec Byard au début des années 1970 et lui avait toujours été reconnaissant d’e l’avoir aidé à développer ses capacités harmoniques.

Un autre étudiant, Marty Ehrlich, avait un jour écrit au sujet de Byard: ‘’The man was touched by genius. Musicians all knew it. He was not cut out to conquer the world. We are all the beneficiaries of his generosity and brilliance.”

Dans les années 1980, le piano était toujours le principal instrument de Byard, même s’il continuait de jouer du saxophone alto et ténor à l’occasion. Même s’il donnait toujours des cours de contrebasse, de batterie, de guitare, de trombone et de trompette, il avait cessé d’en jouer professionnellement. À la même époque, on voyait souvent Byard se produire à New York, que ce soit en solo, en duo ou en trio. En 1988, Byard avait aussi collaboré avec le Mingus Big Band, un groupe qui avait été mis sur pied par la veuve de Mingus après la mort du compositeur en 1979.

De 1989 à 1991, Byard avait joué et enregistré avec un de ses anciens étudiants, Ricky Ford. Il avait aussi continué de se produire sur scène et d’enseigner durant les années 1990. À la fin de sa vie, Byard s’était particulièrement concentré sur l’interprétation de standards.

Byard avait toujours été un musicien très créatif. Comme l’écrivait en 1983 le magazine People, "As a solo pianist, Byard mixes his styles liberally, not only from song to song but often within songs." Trois ans plus tard, lors de la parution de l’album ‘’Rhythm is Our Business’’ que Byard avait enregistré avec Jordan Sandke, le même magazine avait commenté: "Crossing generational and stylistic lines with gleeful disregard, this album is an engaging bit of chamber jazz. The group wanders happily from New Orleans style to swing to bop."

Influencé par plusieurs styles musicaux, Byard avait toujours eu des goûts très éclectiques. Interrogé par Len Lyons dans le cadre de son ouvrage ‘’The Great Jazz Pianists’’ publié en 1983, Byard avait expliqué: ‘’I go from Bach, to outside, back to inside, and all over the place. I analyzed Chopin, Beethoven, Ravel, Stravinsky, and piano rolls.” Même si Byard ne détestait pas le free jazz, il était profondément enraciné dans la tradition. Comme l’écrivait Lyons, “More than any other pianist. Byard alludes explicitly to the jazz piano tradition in his playing.”

Le 11 février 1999, Jaki Byard a été retrouvé mort dans ses circonstances mystérieuses à sa résidence de Hollis, dans le Queens. On lui avait tiré une balle dans la tête. Même si les filles de Byard se trouvaient dans la maison au moment du meurtre, elles ne s’étaient aperçues de rien. La police n’avait constaté aucun signe d’infraction, qu’il s’agisse de vandalisme, de vol ou de la moindre bagarre. Byard avait vu sa famille pour la dernière fois à 18 heures. Il avait été assassiné vers 22h. L’arme du crime n’a jamais été retrouvée.

Le mystère de l’assassinat de Byard n’a jamais été résolu. L’épouse de Byard, Louise M. Caruso, étant décédée en 1994, il laissait dans le deuil ses deux filles Denise et Diane, et son fils Gerald, ainsi que quatre petits-fils et six arrière-petits-fils.

Après la mort de Byard, un de ses anciens étudiants, la flûtiste de jazz Jamie Baum, avait formé un groupe en son honneur composé principalement de musiciens qu’il avait formés. Baptisé The Jaki Byard Project ou ‘’Yard Byard’’ en référence à la composition de Charlie Parker, le groupe était composé notamment de Baum, d’Adam Kolker, de Jerome Harris, de George Schuller et d’Ugonna Okegwo. L’orchestre interprétait des pièces que Byard avait composé lors de sa collaboration avec Baum, mais qu’il n’avait jamais interprétées lui-même.

Byard avait exercé une énorme influence sur le monde du jazz. Multi-instrumentiste, il excellait non seulement au piano, mais aussi à la trompette, au trombone, à la contrebasse, au vibraphone, à la batterie et aux saxophones alto et ténor. Reconnu pour un style éclectique qui amalgamait des styles aussi différents que le ragtime, le stride et le free jazz, Byard était aussi compositeur et arrangeur. Le critique Gary Giddins décrivait ainsi le style de jeu de Byard:

"His tone [...] is unfailingly bright. His middle-register improvisations are evenly articulated with a strong touch and rhythmic elan [... he] likes ringing tremolos and portentous fifths [... and] barely articulated keyboard washes that float beyond the harmonic bounds but are ultimately anchored by the blues". 

Dans les notes de pochette de la compilation de Booker Ervin ‘’The Freedom and Space Sessions’ (1979), le critique Stanley Crouch écrivait au sujet de Byard:

“He amalgamated the past with the most adventurous new harmonies and rhythms, evolving a style that always offered the possibilities of numerous improvisational perspectives. His playing rumbles and waddles, often summoning the dark tremolos of the church, the spunk and kick of stride piano, and the nearly seamless blisters of sound in Tatum and Powell. And all of this periodically careens into new musical worlds where some of Europe’s harsher harmonic responses to modern life are given a lilt even as they curse the age.” 

Le saxophoniste Jed Levy avait également été très impressionné par Byard. Il affirmait: “I’ve been fortunate to play with many great musicians, but there are two people who I wouldn’t hesitate to use the word ‘genius,’ and Jaki Byard was one of those people – it goes beyond his piano playing, his writing…he looked at nature and made music out of it.” 

Byard jouait une grande variété de styles, les amalgamant souvent dans une même performance, ce qui donnait souvent des effets assez comiques, et voire même surréalistes. Pianiste polyvalent, Byard était aussi à l’aise avec le répertoire d’Art Tatum qu’avec celui de Fats Waller, de Thelonious Monk ou de ce Cecil Taylor. Lorsqu’on le questionnait sur l’humour qu’il insérait dans ses performances, Byard expliquait que cela ne signifiait pas que sa musique n’était pas sérieuse: "I might do it with humor, but it's still serious because I mean what I'm doing". 

Après avoir décrit la musique de Byard comme étant en avance sur son temps, le critique Dan Lander avait ajouté qu’il avait même influencé les pianistes du 21e siècle: ‘’Byard's grasp and integration of historical forms, his ability to embrace tradition and risk taking, was visionary, impacting on a new generation of jazz musicians who understood the history of jazz as a material to build on and work with, at the service of creating something new, rather than as an unmovable weight, fixing them to the past.’’ Quant au jeu de Byard au saxophone ténor, il était influencé par celui de Lester Young et de Ben Webster.

L’une des plus impressionnantes compositions de Byard était la pièce ‘’European Episode’’, dont il avait enregistré des extraits sur son premier album comme leader en 1960. Byard avait de nouveau enregistré la pièce en 1964 sur l’album ‘’Out Front !’’, avec le saxophoniste Booker Ervin et le trompettiste Richard Williams. Il s’agissait d’un ballet en six parties qui avait été inspiré par un séjour en Europe de Byard, notamment à Bruxelles, Paris et Milan.

Travailleur infatigable, Byard avait toujours cherché à s’améliorer. Il avait toujours continué d’apprendre d’étudier, même en poursuivant sa carrière de professeur. En 1995, le maire de New York, Rudolph Giuliani, lui avait remis un prix à l’occasion du 100e anniversaire de la Harlem Week, pour son travail avec les Apollo Stompers.

Lors de sa carrière d’une durée de soixante ans, Byard a enregistré au moins trente-cinq albums comme leader, et plus de cinquante comme accompagnateur.

En 1980, Byard avait été l’objet d’un court documentaire intitulé ‘’Anything for jazz’’, dans lequel on le voyait jouer et enseigner ainsi que partager des moments d’intimité avec les membres de sa famille.

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