Meaning: The quote, "Dizzy used to tell me that I am playing too hard. He used to say to not give everything. Miles used to tell me that too," by Freddie Hubbard, offers a glimpse into the advice and guidance the renowned jazz trumpeter received from two iconic figures in the world of music: Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis.

Freddie Hubbard, a trumpeter and composer, was a prominent figure in the jazz scene during the mid-20th century. Known for his technical prowess, innovative style, and dynamic performances, Hubbard was highly regarded by his peers and audiences alike. His career intersected with those of Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis, both of whom were influential figures in the development of jazz music.

Dizzy Gillespie, a pioneering figure in the world of bebop and modern jazz, was known for his virtuosic trumpet playing, distinctive bent horn, and charismatic stage presence. As a mentor to many young musicians, Gillespie was known for his playful yet insightful approach to guiding emerging talents. His advice to Hubbard about "playing too hard" and "not giving everything" may reflect his emphasis on musical finesse, control, and the importance of restraint in expression.

Miles Davis, another influential figure in the jazz world, was known for his groundbreaking innovations in jazz music, particularly in the realms of modal jazz and jazz fusion. Davis' approach to music was characterized by a sense of coolness, understatement, and an economy of notes. His advice to Hubbard likely echoed similar sentiments to those of Gillespie, emphasizing the importance of space, nuance, and the strategic use of musical energy.

In interpreting the quote, it's important to consider the context in which Hubbard received this advice. As a young and talented trumpeter with a penchant for fiery and energetic playing, he may have been prone to exuberant and unrestrained performances. Both Gillespie and Davis, as elder statesmen in the jazz world, likely recognized the potential pitfalls of excessive exuberance and the benefits of tempering passion with control.

The advice offered by Gillespie and Davis can be seen as a reflection of their own musical philosophies. Gillespie, known for his virtuosic playing and exuberant personality, understood the value of technical mastery and precision in musical expression. His encouragement for Hubbard to "not give everything" may have been an admonition to preserve energy and creativity, to avoid expending all of one's musical resources in a single performance.

Similarly, Davis' emphasis on restraint and economy in musical expression aligns with his own stylistic tendencies. His advice to Hubbard may have been rooted in the belief that true musical impact often arises from the strategic use of silence, dynamics, and subtlety. By advising Hubbard to temper his playing, Davis may have been guiding him towards a deeper understanding of musical communication and expression.

In conclusion, the quote by Freddie Hubbard offers a glimpse into the valuable guidance he received from two jazz legends, Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis. Their advice, though simple in words, carries profound implications for the art of musical expression. It underscores the importance of balance, control, and nuance in creating impactful and meaningful music. As Hubbard navigated his own musical journey, the wisdom imparted by Gillespie and Davis likely influenced his artistic development and contributed to his legacy as a pioneering figure in the world of jazz trumpet playing.