Gillespie, John Birks "Dizzy"

Autograph manuscript of "Night in Tunisia," as used in performance, 2 pages (12 1/2 x 9 1/2 in.; 317 x 241 mm), comprising 42 measures, plus repeats, the piano part notated in pencil on twelve systems of two staves, the trumpet part added in red crayon an octave higher than sounding, some erasures and annotations ("…(omit interlude)…"), with details of harmony added between the staves, [n.p., n.d.]; minor soiling and wear.

Condition as described in catalogue.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Dizzy Gillespie's "Night in Tunisia," one of the greatest jazz standards of the twentieth century, here in a manuscript used in performance.  Gillespie and Frank Paparelli wrote "Night in Tunisia" (also known as "Interlude") in 1942.  He recorded it numerous times with various ensembles, but his Sextet's 1946 Victor recording is probably the definitive version.  It was named to the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004.  In addition to Gillespie himself, the song has been recorded by a Who's Who of jazz royalty: Art Blakey, Charlie Parker, Stan Getz, Dexter Gordon, June Christy, Miles Davis, Maynard Ferguson, Ella Fitzgerald, Lambert Hendricks & Ross, the Modern Jazz Quartet, Anita O'Day, Sonny Rollins, Cal Tjader, Jimmy Smith, Sarah Vaughan, and many others.

Gillespie manuscripts are seldom offered for sale.  The present manuscript, used during performance, reveals much about Gillespie's working methods.