Odriozola, Ricardo

Preface

Odriozola, Ricardo – Cannonball! The Music, Words and Images of Judge Smith (book)

Foreword by David Jackson
I’m David Jackson, probably best known as the saxophone player from ‘Van
der Graaf Generator’. I’ve known Judge Smith since 1968 and I was suggested
by his school mate (and my friend) Max Hutchinson for the band ‘Heebalob’.
Ever since then, I’ve worked with Judge off and on, gaining sporadic insights
into his seemingly infinite and unusual creative talents. Along with a host of
myriad others revealed inside the book, when Judge beckons we know we are
needed and we come running! We know we will all get involved in an unusual
project involving something weird and wonderful; with something challenging
and totally unforgettable!
I had forgotten that once long ago when Judge was in an atypical musical
fix, it was actually myself who suggested that he talk to Ricardo Odriozola in
Norway. They got on like a house on fire, as I had done with Ricardo after we
had met at a Peter Hammill gig, a long time ago now.
Ricardo is also immensely talented. He is a great violinist, composer,
conductor, teacher, facilitator and communicator with a captivating reach that
extends well beyond his many languages. He came to Judge’s rescue then – and
has since come on to do so much more with him! Ricardo’s revealing insights
into Judge’s unique workings and method have made me listen to everything
by Judge in a completely new light.
Judge Smith has created an enormous body of dramatic and musical work that
is all exceptionally original and unique. He is the untrained music maestro and
has deliberately avoided learning notation and ‘those rules’. His imagination is
unlimited and there is always a high level of virtuosity on display. He always
wins enormous respect – and love – and inspires the diverse range of the
collaborators, music colleagues, bands, choirs, orchestras that he engages with
on his incredible musical and dramatic journeys.

read more (German preface not available) … > HERE