"Conduction" Innovator Dies at 65

NY Times Article
So, looking back on my past few blogs, I realized I have been talking a lot about politics. Not that that's bad, because debate is always good. But, I think this time I'll turn my attention to another area that is of great importance to me: music.
I'll start of by saying I had never heard of this before, but was more than impressed when I heard about the technique.
"Conduction," a style of music related to jazz but applicable to all genres that was created by Butch Morris, is his own adopted term for "conducted improvisation." Now, for those of you who may already be moving onto the next blog, at least check this out. You don't have to watch the whole thing, but please at least get a feel for the style.youtube Conduction
Which brings up the question: How? Well, some basic communication between bandsmen and  the conductor is worked out. Some of these signals, such as ones to influence tempo, dynamics, or balance, are common to all conductors. Others came from jazz and big band groups, including Morris's peers in the jazz world. And some were invented by Morris to help his purpose.
Now for those of you who aren't music fanatics like me, let me just say that taking something (improvisation in this case) and applying it to classical, pop, rock music, etc., was plain unheard of. In fact, the NY Times reports that Morris originally was rejected, as many people were unwilling to adapt to this new style. However, he went on to perform with "classical orchestras,  electronic instruments and music boxes; dancers, actors and visual artists; and gatherings of 19 poets or 15 trumpets." This is a very unique and innovative concept, certainly objectively notable in the music world.
Mr. Morris began playing in high school. He later joined the Navy, and after serving,  studied music, traveled abroad, and finally settled down in New York. He earned most of his income from commissions and writing music for dancers, movies, etc. He is survived by his brother and sister, and one son.
This is truly a unique concept, and while it may not be as popular as other genres of music, it can be universally applied and appreciated.
God Bless America