Episode 88: Absolute Pitch –what is it, who has it, and what ’s it good for?

Today you will learn a lot about absolute or ‘perfect’ pitch, and hear selections by jazz musicians who possess this faculty.  Also a demonstration from a child who has it, and some descriptions by musicians as to how it has been helpful as well as limiting.   As well, I’ll discuss how it differs from ‘relative’ pitch, and why the two so often end up being confused. You’ll hear music by Ryan Keberle, Bing Crosby and Joe Sullivan, Keith Jarrett, Oscar Peterson, Charlie Puth, Paul Shaffer w. Gil Parris, Ella Fitzgerald, Gary Burton, and Vancouver Island’s Adrian Dolan.   You’ll also hear Adrian talk about his absolute pitch. I get a chance to share my own experience with absolute pitch as well.