In Memory of Josef Skvorecky and a Story of Nazi Musical Censorship

Boing Boing recently had a story on Josef Skvorecky, a Czech radical who died recently in Canada at the age of 87.  He once wrote about the rules the Nazis enforced on jazz performers during World War II. These rules were not  only bizarre but a frightening illustration of art in an authoritarian environment.  

For example:

1.    Pieces in foxtrot rhythm (so-called swing) are not to exceed 20% of the repertoires of light orchestras and dance bands;

2.   In this so-called jazz type repertoire, preference is to be given to compositions in a major key and to lyrics expressing joy in life rather than Jewishly gloomy lyrics;

3.   As to tempo, preference is also to be given to brisk compositions over slow ones so-called blues); however, the pace must not exceed a certain degree of allegro, commensurate with the Aryan sense of discipline and moderation. On no account will Negroid excesses in tempo (so-called hot jazz) or in solo performances (so-called breaks) be tolerated;

This reminded me of a recording by Canadian violinist Hugh Marsh read by Robert Palmer from a 1987 album entitled Shaking the Pumpkin which recites these rules and tips the hat to Skvorecky.  Hear the song here.