Fontessa
Context
Eleven-minute short suite by John Lewis inspired by the commedia dell'arte: a prelude, then three pieces for Harlequin, Pierrot, and Pantaloon, each in a different jazz style, with a three-note motif representing Columbine. Lead track of the MJQ's first album on Atlantic (1956), produced by Nesuhi Ertegun. The group would draw an entire album from it, "The Comedy" (1962).
In the genealogy of jazz
This track belongs to Third stream, Cool (Birth of the Cool). Among the origins and influences of Third stream: Cool (Birth of the Cool).