The Importance of Ego in the Music Business

It is impossible to deny the instinct to be proud of our accomplishments within our medium. We experience these feelings of pride perhaps as a result of artistic ingenuity, professional accomplishments, or even accolades from those involved in the press industry.  I...
Listen Up

Listen Up

In a technologically saturated culture, I have become astonished with the overwhelming need of our society to require instant gratification in nearly all aspects of life.  One of the distinct challenges of being an artist in virtually any medium, regardless of...

The Danger of Working With Jazz Education Materials

Over the past 20 years or so, I have had the privilege of being a self employed freelance jazz musician and educator.  I have seen a multitude of students from the beginning level and their progress to the  professional level, both through private instruction and...

November Gigs at the Blue Note, Smalls and more…..

Hi Friends,  It’s been a while since I have blogged on my website, so I thought I would put together a quick one about some upcoming gigs that I am very excited about.  Without trying to be too formal, I will quickly mention a few and you can always check back...

Andrew Beals Quartet and Akiko Tsuruga

Had a ball playing at Hotoke as part of the New Brunswick Jazz Project with Akiko Tsuruga’s quartet featuring Joe Magnarelli and Jerry Weldon the other night.  Very excited about playing with Andrew Beals quartet at the 9th note.  Hope to see you...