Would Feuermann Have Played Jazz?

Marika Hughes, the granddaughter of cellist Emanuel Feuermann, imagines what her grandfather could have achieved had he lived longer, particularly in the realm of jazz. She notes his fascination with jazz and improvisation, suggesting that he might have revolutionized string playing had he collaborated with jazz legends like Charlie Parker. She reflects on his exceptional skill on the cello, mentioning how his cadenzas felt improvised and expressive, even if they were written down. This speculative conversation highlights her belief that Feuermann’s musical prowess could have significantly influenced the evolution of jazz in string performance.