Meaning: The quote you've provided is a reflection by jazz pianist Marian McPartland on advice she received from fellow musician Mary Lou Williams. In this quote, McPartland discusses how Williams used to tell her that playing a minor tune can help to align one's emotions and thoughts when feeling uncertain or not "feeling right" about what they are doing. McPartland expresses some skepticism about the truth of this statement but acknowledges that she still follows this advice and plays a minor tune when she is in such a state.

Marian McPartland's reflection on the advice she received from Mary Lou Williams offers a glimpse into the world of musicians and the ways in which they navigate their emotions and creative processes. This quote not only sheds light on the personal experiences of McPartland but also touches upon broader themes related to the emotional and psychological aspects of music-making.

Mary Lou Williams, a highly influential jazz pianist, composer, and arranger, was known for her innovative approach to music and her mentorship of younger musicians. It is worth noting that Williams herself had a deep understanding of the emotional and spiritual dimensions of music. Throughout her career, she explored various musical styles and genres, and her wisdom and insights were valued by many aspiring musicians, including Marian McPartland.

The advice that Williams shared with McPartland reflects the belief that music has the power to heal, soothe, and bring clarity to one's thoughts and emotions. The suggestion to play a minor tune as a way to realign one's feelings and thoughts implies an understanding of the evocative and emotive qualities of music. In Western music theory, minor keys are often associated with melancholy, introspection, and a sense of depth. It is possible that Williams saw the act of playing a minor tune as a way to tap into these emotional qualities in order to process and address inner turmoil or uncertainty.

The idea that playing a minor tune can help one to "fall into place" suggests that music has the capacity to bring a sense of coherence and harmony to a person's inner world. For McPartland, this advice seems to have resonated on some level, as she admits to following it despite her uncertainty about its veracity. This speaks to the power of musical practices and rituals in providing comfort and a sense of grounding, even if their underlying mechanisms are not fully understood.

In the context of jazz, a genre known for its emphasis on improvisation and emotional expression, the relationship between music and the internal state of the musician is particularly significant. Musicians often draw on their personal experiences and emotions to inform their playing, and the act of performing can be deeply intertwined with their psychological and emotional well-being. In this light, Williams' advice to McPartland can be seen as a form of self-care and emotional regulation, using music as a tool for introspection and self-understanding.

Beyond the personal significance of this quote, it also invites broader contemplation on the ways in which music serves as a source of solace, reflection, and emotional release for both musicians and listeners alike. The idea that playing a minor tune can serve as a means of centering oneself highlights the therapeutic potential of music, a notion that has been explored in various cultural and spiritual traditions throughout history.

In conclusion, Marian McPartland's reflection on the advice she received from Mary Lou Williams offers a glimpse into the emotional and psychological dimensions of music-making. The quote underscores the belief in the emotive and healing power of music, particularly in the context of jazz and improvisation. It encourages contemplation on the ways in which music can serve as a means of emotional regulation and self-expression, providing comfort and clarity in times of uncertainty and inner turmoil.