Espresso Jazz  provides this page for jazz commentary.

HORNS AND STRINGS

The rich historical partnership of wind instruments supported by strings, has its origin in classical chamber music. These small ensembles, with their intimate interplay, make them ideal models for jazz players. Both the Mozart Quintet K492 and the Brahms Opus 115, scored for string quartet and clarinet, are exquisite works that set forth most of the musical nuances possible in this context, with a minimum of artifice, and a great sweep of emotional range.

In jazz, the first notable use of strings is found in Artie Shaw's very musical swing band of the late 1930s. In Shaw’s band, improvised solos were effectively played over string accompaniment. "Stardust" and "Moonglow" are exquisite recorded examples of the horn-string combination with truly "classic" Shaw clarinet solos and first class improvisations by trumpeter, Billy Butterfield, and trombonist, Jack Jenney. No less than Charlie Parker recorded with strings, playing music of such beauty that it belies the tortured spirit of this jazz giant. Trumpeter, Bobby Hackett's Music For Lovers recordings almost drown in the strings that underpin his playing, but his horn sound is so beautifully burnished that it is hard to dismiss. The fiery jazz clarinetist, Kenny Davern, lovingly caresses several American standards in his recent Arbors label album with strings. Davern’s ravishing sound astonishes those who know his quirky, creative individualism. You can be sure, when you hear your favorite jazz player over a string ensemble, you will hear a different side of the musical spirit, one that literally "reaches for the stars".                                           

 - Bob Sparkman

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