A VINE STATE OF AFFAIRS

The legend and reputation of the late Maury Stein--Vine Street, Hollywood, longtime purveyor of musical instruments--is global (“Touching All Basses,” by Dave Gardetta, So SoCal, Oct. 20). As an example, 15 years ago, I was working with Stan Getz at the Keystone Korner in San Francisco. Maury was coming up from L.A. to visit with us. I mentioned this to the club owner, who had never met Maury, and he beamed: “Wonderful--my favorite person.”

The article mentioned me as having been Frank Sinatra’s pianist for many years. I did work for Sinatra, and I loved it, but it was not for that long a period. His primary pianist over the long haul has been Bill Miller, who has filled the bill perfectly.

And regarding those back-room jam sessions at Maury’s store, it should be noted that many other fine players participated, including saxophonists Warne Marsh, Pete Christlieb, Phil Woods and “Mr. Music,” the late Al Cohn.

Lou Levy

Studio City