Oral History Interview: Joan Wildman (0487)

Abstract

In her 1994 interview with Chad Lauber, Professor Joan Wildman discusses her experiences in jazz performance, jazz education, and new music. Wildman details her pedagogical approach to fostering improvisational skills and administering a well-rounded musical education in UW’s Jazz Studies Program, which she has pioneered since her arrival at the School of Music in 1977. Wildman also shares her experiences as a female pianist in the jazz scene, her philosophies for composing and performing, and her discoveries as an early adapter of synthesized instruments. This interview was conducted for inclusion into the School of Music 1994 Project within the University Archives’ Oral History Collection.