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Herbie Hancock's secret of great musicianship: Do your math and science homework!

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If you've taken even the slightest interest in popular music over, oh, the last half-century or so, you've doubtless encountered the artistry of Herbie Hancock. Whether it's his suave jazz standards like “Watermelon Man" or his inspired guest stints as a pianist and keyboardist on scores of pop collaborations--his funky, elegant solo midway through Stevie Wonder's “As" makes his keyboard sound like it's talkin' in tongues--Hancock has placed his mark on modern music like few other performers.

Now he's got a new gig as creative jazz chair of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. In that capacity, he'll be responsible for programming jazz concerts at the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Hollywood Bowl, bringing in guest artists and possibly commissioning new pieces.

So what are some keys to the professional success and longevity of Hancock, who turned 70 in April and seems as occupied as ever?

Well, one of them is: Study your math and science. As a self-described “techie," Hancock says his lifelong embrace of electronic experimentation has helped him stay on top as well as take advantage of evolving musical developments.

Here's part of what he had to say on the subject during a recent interview at his Westside home:

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