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Alaadeen: Jazz legend, teacher, author

By Chris Cooke

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kios/local-kios-890712.mp3

Omaha, NE – Fans of Kansas City jazz are no doubt familiar with Ahmad Alaadeen. The 75-year-old saxophonist, who goes just by his last name, has performed with the likes of Billie Holiday, Miles Davis, and the Count Basie Orchestra. He studied flute at the Kansas City Conservatory of Music. His career spans more than 50 years, both as a musician and a songwriter. He's taught jazz, and now Alaadeen can add another accomplishment to his list, that of author. His book "The Rest of the Story" is a primer for young jazz musicians to find their sound and learn the art of improvisation. Omaha Public Radio's Chris Cooke recently spoke with Alaadeen about his book and his celebrated jazz career.