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INTERVIEWS
Listen to all the interview episodes done on 30 Albums for 30 Years (1964-1994)
25- Aaron Irwin Interview
Saxophonist, multi-woodwind instrumentalist and composer Aaron Irwin is from central IL. Recognized as a “lyrical alto saxophonist and a compelling original composer” (Steve Futterman, The New Yorker), Irwin is a sought-after commodity in both the jazz and commercial worlds. His latest recording (After) will be released on Adhyâropa Records in May of 2024, featuring longtime bandmates Mike Baggetta on guitar and Jeff Hirshfield on drums. He has eight other recordings as a leader with instrumentations spanning from trio to sextet. In addition to his groups, Irwin has performed with many leading jazz voices in the New York music community including the Grammy-nominated Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society, Jamie Baum’s Septet +, Bob Sabin’s Tentet, The Mike Fahie Jazz Orchestra, the mixed wind group Weathervest, as well as pop artists Kristen Chenoweth, Rufus Wainwright, Josh Groban, Idina Menzel, and The Roots. Irwin maintains a busy schedule as a freelance musician, performing in jazz clubs, concert halls, and Broadway theatres, working with many of New York’s finest musicians and bands.
24 - Billy Mohler Interview
Billy Mohler is a Grammy-nominated bassist, producer, and songwriter who works with legends like Lady Gaga, Sia, Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Macy Gray, Ringo Starr, Herbie Hancock, Steven Tyler, and Smashing Pumpkins. In addition to his incredible success in pop music, he is a noted jazz musician and has released several records under his name; his most recent album release available is called Ultraviolet with saxophonist Chris Speed, trumpeter Shane Endsley, and drummer Nate Wood.
23- Chris Pinnella Interview
Chris Pinnella's musical journey is woven with experiences across diverse landscapes. His career took flight at 16 when he showcased his prodigious talent with Alphonse Stephenson and the Orchestra of St. Peter, a debut that set the stage for his future success. This early triumph was just the beginning of his musical odyssey, eventually leading him to earn a degree from Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. Post-college, his career trajectory led him to diverse platforms. He delved into off-Broadway and regional theater. Notably, he landed the role of Simeon in the musical "Simeon's Gift," a production co-authored by the legendary Julie Andrews and her daughter Emma Walton-Hamilton. His involvement in this project gave him a unique opportunity to collaborate closely with industry icons. Additionally, he toured with the famed Trans Siberian Orchestra. Over the last several years, Pinnella has led large-scale celebrated tribute shows featuring the music of Frank Sinatra and a tribute show on the music of Billy Joel.
22- Stephane Wrembel Interview
Stephane Wrembel is a Paris-born guitar virtuoso known for his authentic interpretation of Django Reinhardt's music and innovative compositions that blend jazz with various influences. Immersed in the culture, he has dedicated himself to understanding Reinhardt's legacy. Wrembel's career includes numerous albums, collaborations with esteemed musicians, and performances at prestigious venues worldwide. He is also recognized for his work on several Woody Allen films and his annual Django A Gogo Festival. Wrembel's music reflects his vast experiences and intellectual curiosity, pushing the boundaries of jazz while paying homage to its rich history. This year's Django á Gogo Music Festival will run from May 1st to May 4th. It features international talents honoring Reinhardt's influential style. This year's festival will see the reunion of the Gypsy Guitars Trio, featuring legends like Angelo Debarre and Serge Camps alongside rising stars like Simba Baumgartner and Hugo Guezbar. Additionally, Wrembel's Django New Orleans band will perform.
21- Terence Blanchard Interview
Terence Blanchard, born in New Orleans in 1962, is a celebrated jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader. Rising from the vibrant musical scene of his hometown, Blanchard's talent quickly garnered attention, leading to collaborations with jazz legends like Lionel Hampton and Art Blakey. His partnership with filmmaker Spike Lee catapulted him to international acclaim, as he composed scores for numerous acclaimed films, including "Jungle Fever," "Malcolm X," and "BlacKkKlansman." Blanchard's music transcends traditional boundaries, seamlessly blending jazz with other genres and addressing social issues through projects like his band E-Collective. He has also ventured into opera composition, premiering successful works such as "Champion" and "Fire Shut Up in My Bones." Blanchard's multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to innovation have solidified his legacy as a pioneering force in contemporary music. Recently, I spoke with the trumpet legend about his life, music, and thoughts on winning an NEA Jazz Masters Award, one of the highest honors for jazz musicians. You can check out, my article at https://njjs.org/
20- Joshua Redman Interview
19- Jim Josselyn Interview
Jim Josselyn, born in Oceanport, New Jersey is a highly accomplished jazz guitarist, composer and educator. Starting his musical journey at eleven, he has played with jazz greats and studied under legends like Pat Martino and Kenny Barron. Holding a master's degree in music performance. Jim's recent albums include Early and Shape Shifter. His original music has been featured on over forty TV shows and commercials. Jim performs regularly at renowned venues in New York and New Jersey, and he offers booking, master classes, and private lessons.
Most recent albums: Early Summer Evening and Shape Shifter
https://jimjosselynmusic.com/
musicanddrama.org
Most recent albums: Early Summer Evening and Shape Shifter
https://jimjosselynmusic.com/
musicanddrama.org
18- Interview with Nasheet Waits on Drummer Max Roach
17- Interview with Scotty Barhart (Count Basie Orchestral Music Director)
Scotty Barnhart is a noted trumpeter, composer, arranger, and educator. Most of his work has come through his association with the Count Basie Orchestra, where he began as a featured trumpeter in 1993. Since 2013, Barnhart has been the orchestra's director and has continued to preserve the legacy and tradition of one of the most essential musical establishments of the 20th century. Barnhart not only carries Count Basie's musical legacy with elegance and grace but also connects with Basie's personality. Basie was known to be kind, caring, accessible, and positive. The Count Basie Orchestra's newest album, The Count Basie Orchestra Swings the Blues! has been nominated for a Grammy Award.
16- Interview with Olivia Pérez-Collellmir
Olivia Pérez-Collellmir is a solo pianist, bandleader, and composer from Barcelona, Spain. Noted in Arts Fuse as a “Spanish virtuoso” who adds “a flamenco touch to her chamber jazz,” Collellmir’s performance highlights include playing on the soundtrack of Isla Bonita by renowned director Fernando Colomo, a solo performance at the 25th anniversary gala of the six-time Grammy nominated Boston Baroque Orchestra, touring with Spanish Grammy nominee Rosana Arbelo, performing an honorary concert at Berklee for the legendary Rita Moreno, and performances for United States Secretary of State John Kerry, opera star Renée Fleming, and Metropolitan Opera General Manager Peter Gelb.
Peréz-Collellmir started playing piano at the age of five and began studying under Núria Bonells, a disciple of Alicia de Larrocha, and entered The Superior Conservatory of Music in Barcelona at the age of 8. As a young scholar pianist, Collellmir toured performing Faure's Nocturnes and Bach's Partitas and alsorecorded for the National Radio of Spain. In addition, she was selected to play at the Centre de Musique Hindemith in Switzerland on the international performance piano stage. After receiving bachelor’s degrees in classical performance from the Conservatori Superior de Música de Barcelona and philosophy from the University of Barcelona, Collellmir became a head of music for the Department of Education of Catalonia where she conducted, recorded, toured, and performed. In 2014, she received a full scholarship from Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she moved, to expand her studies within the idioms of jazz and multicultural music, arrangements, orchestrations and conducting.
An honors graduate of Berklee with a dual major in Performance and Professional Music, Collellmir is the composer and performer of the award-winning compositions “Barcelona” and “Together,” which she premiered at the Berklee Performance Center. She is a winner of the Berklee Piano Department’s prestigious Chair Award, as well as a Piano Achievement Award. Currently, Pérez-Collellmir is a member of the faculty in the Berklee piano department. ]
Her first full album featuring her original music “Olivia” has been recorded in the fall of 2021 (Boston) and in the Summer of 2022 (New York). Her recording has been awarded with the "Berklee Faculty Fellowship Grant 2021-2022”. The album was released on September 15, 2023 produced by Gonzalo Grau.
The first album 'Olivia' (Adhyâropa Records) was released on September 15th. A collection of songs representative of the eclecticism and musical fusion that Pérez-Collellmir professes, exploring jazz, flamenco, classical music and Spanish folk traditions to create a universal sound without borders. 'Olivia' captures the native sounds of Barcelona, her hometown. Original songs composed by the Catalan artist and arrangements of pieces by Maurice Ravel and Frederic Mompou with 'Barcelona' as the centerpiece of the project. She also takes some exotic approaches to India and the Middle East.
'Olivia' features 18 stellar collaborations such as Catalan singer Judit Neddermann, percussionist Aleix Tobias, flamenco artists Sonia Olla and Ismael Fernández, bassist John Lockwood (legendary bassist who played with Dizzy Gillespie, Gary Burton, Pat Metheny and Gonzalo Rubalcaba) and cellist Naseem Alatrash (member of the Turtle Island Quartet and 2023 Grammy nominee)
Peréz-Collellmir started playing piano at the age of five and began studying under Núria Bonells, a disciple of Alicia de Larrocha, and entered The Superior Conservatory of Music in Barcelona at the age of 8. As a young scholar pianist, Collellmir toured performing Faure's Nocturnes and Bach's Partitas and alsorecorded for the National Radio of Spain. In addition, she was selected to play at the Centre de Musique Hindemith in Switzerland on the international performance piano stage. After receiving bachelor’s degrees in classical performance from the Conservatori Superior de Música de Barcelona and philosophy from the University of Barcelona, Collellmir became a head of music for the Department of Education of Catalonia where she conducted, recorded, toured, and performed. In 2014, she received a full scholarship from Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she moved, to expand her studies within the idioms of jazz and multicultural music, arrangements, orchestrations and conducting.
An honors graduate of Berklee with a dual major in Performance and Professional Music, Collellmir is the composer and performer of the award-winning compositions “Barcelona” and “Together,” which she premiered at the Berklee Performance Center. She is a winner of the Berklee Piano Department’s prestigious Chair Award, as well as a Piano Achievement Award. Currently, Pérez-Collellmir is a member of the faculty in the Berklee piano department. ]
Her first full album featuring her original music “Olivia” has been recorded in the fall of 2021 (Boston) and in the Summer of 2022 (New York). Her recording has been awarded with the "Berklee Faculty Fellowship Grant 2021-2022”. The album was released on September 15, 2023 produced by Gonzalo Grau.
The first album 'Olivia' (Adhyâropa Records) was released on September 15th. A collection of songs representative of the eclecticism and musical fusion that Pérez-Collellmir professes, exploring jazz, flamenco, classical music and Spanish folk traditions to create a universal sound without borders. 'Olivia' captures the native sounds of Barcelona, her hometown. Original songs composed by the Catalan artist and arrangements of pieces by Maurice Ravel and Frederic Mompou with 'Barcelona' as the centerpiece of the project. She also takes some exotic approaches to India and the Middle East.
'Olivia' features 18 stellar collaborations such as Catalan singer Judit Neddermann, percussionist Aleix Tobias, flamenco artists Sonia Olla and Ismael Fernández, bassist John Lockwood (legendary bassist who played with Dizzy Gillespie, Gary Burton, Pat Metheny and Gonzalo Rubalcaba) and cellist Naseem Alatrash (member of the Turtle Island Quartet and 2023 Grammy nominee)
15- Interview with Charlie Apicella
Charlie Apicella was voted onto the 84th and 86th DownBeat Readers Poll for Guitar. He studied composition and improvisation with musical titans Yusef Lateef and Pat Martino and was trained as a historian by Archie Shepp and Dr. Billy Taylor. As a young guitarist he met his idol BB King, who offered him advice and shared some stories.
He has performed concerts and recorded with jazz legends Dave Holland, Sonny Fortune, John Blake, Jr., and Avery Sharpe as well as contemporary masters Joe Magnarelli, Vic Juris, Dave Stryker, Don Braden, and Jon Herington of Steely Dan.
In 2022 he formed The Griots Speak with bassist William Parker, saxophonist Daniel Carter, and percussionist Juma Sultan who is known for his work with Jimi Hendrix.
* * *
Charlie Apicella is the founder and program director of Blues Alive: the living tradition of the blues
He is an Eastman Guitars Featured Artist a
Guild Guitars Sponsored Artist and a
ZT Amplifiers Official Artist
He has performed concerts and recorded with jazz legends Dave Holland, Sonny Fortune, John Blake, Jr., and Avery Sharpe as well as contemporary masters Joe Magnarelli, Vic Juris, Dave Stryker, Don Braden, and Jon Herington of Steely Dan.
In 2022 he formed The Griots Speak with bassist William Parker, saxophonist Daniel Carter, and percussionist Juma Sultan who is known for his work with Jimi Hendrix.
* * *
Charlie Apicella is the founder and program director of Blues Alive: the living tradition of the blues
He is an Eastman Guitars Featured Artist a
Guild Guitars Sponsored Artist and a
ZT Amplifiers Official Artist
14- Steve Davis Interview (Jazz Trombonist)
Born in Worcester, MA in 1967, Davis was raised in Binghamton, NY and graduated in 1989 from Hartt School’s Jackie McLean Institute. It was with McLean’s guidance and recommendation that Davis landed his first major performance with Art Blakey in NYC. In 98’ Steve winning the TDWR (Rising Star) Trombone Category and later named consecutively as Trombonist of the Year by The JJA – (2010-2013).
Widely regarded as one of today’s leading voices on the trombone. His lyrical, hard-swinging style first gained him broad recognition. Steve has released 20 albums including: Think Ahead (2017), Say When (2015), For Real & Gettin’ It Done (2014) featuring his longtime musical colleagues Larry Willis and Nat Reeves along with drummer Billy Williams, saxophonists Abraham Burton (For Real), Mike DiRubbo and trumpeter Josh Bruneau (Gettin’ It Done), in addition to over 100 recordings with names including: Chick Corea, Freddie Hubbard, Horace Silver, Cedar Walton, Hank Jones. In 2018 his original composition “Optimism” was included in Christian McBride’s Grammy Award winning album “Bringin’ it”. Steve Davis’ latest release with his sextet “Correlations” (label: Smoke Sessions Records) Steve features Joshua Bruneau, trumpet; Wayne Escoffery, tenor saxophone; Xavier Davis, piano; Dexron Dougles, bass; Johnathan Barber, drums; Caro Baptista, percussion on “Batista Revenge”.
He leads his groups All-Star quartet Larry Willis (Alone Together/Mapleshade 2006) and his exciting, Outlook Quintet featuring rising stars Mike DiRubbo (alto sax), David Bryant (piano), Dezron Douglas (bass) and Eric McPherson (drums) regularly performing at Smoke and Smalls Jazz Club (NYC); The Greater Hartford Jazz Festival, Baltimore’s Eubie Blake Center, The Richmond Jazz Society, Hartford Jazz Society.
Steve performs internationally with Dizzy Gillespie’s All-Stars, Jimmy Heath, Ron Carter. Chick Corea & My Spanish Heart Band, Origin, he has appeared at The Jimmy Fallon with Steve Wonder, at the White House Tribute to Ray Charles (PBS) and records with the collective unit One For All (Eric Alexander, Jim Rotondi, David Hazeltine, John Webber and Joe Farnsworth), Larry Willis, Harold Malberen.Widely regarded as one of today’s leading voices on the trombone. His lyrical, hard-swinging style first gained him broad recognition.
He leads his groups All-Star quartet Larry Willis (Alone Together/Mapleshade 2006) and his exciting, Outlook Quintet featuring rising stars Mike DiRubbo (alto sax), David Bryant (piano), Dezron Douglas (bass) and Eric McPherson (drums) regularly performing at Smoke and Smalls Jazz Club (NYC); The Greater Hartford Jazz Festival, Baltimore’s Eubie Blake Center, The Richmond Jazz Society, Hartford Jazz Society.
Steve performs internationally with Dizzy Gillespie’s All-Stars, Jimmy Heath, Ron Carter. Chick Corea & My Spanish Heart Band, Origin, he has appeared at The Jimmy Fallon with Steve Wonder, at the White House Tribute to Ray Charles (PBS) and records with the collective unit One For All (Eric Alexander, Jim Rotondi, David Hazeltine, John Webber and Joe Farnsworth), Larry Willis, Harold Malberen.Widely regarded as one of today’s leading voices on the trombone. His lyrical, hard-swinging style first gained him broad recognition.
13- Cat Coore from Third World
Third World is one of the longest-lived Reggae bands, and one of Jamaica's most consistently popular crossover acts among international audiences. Mixing in elements of R&B, funk, pop, and rock, and, later on, dancehall and rap, Third World’s style has been described as "reggae-fusion," but the band's core style is roots Reggae. With 9 Grammy nominations and a catalog of charted smash hits, including (“Now That We Found Love,” “96 Degrees in the Shade,” and “Try Jah Love”), spanning over four decades, sold-out tours, a vibrant and loyal fan base, and inspirational messages, one may wonder, "Where did it all begin? What gives Third World the staying power so rare in the music industry?" Third World is more than just one of the top Reggae bands of all time; it is an institution that stands for producing and performing music that, while holding firm to the cultural and ancestral roots of its members, still pushes forward cutting-edge of music worldwide. It is an institution with positive, progressive, and internationally relevant themes.
12- Patrick Soulari Interview
Interview with Patrick Soulari from The Hot Toddies Jazz Band. THE HOT TODDIES JAZZ BAND is a fun-loving hot jazz & swing band from NYC that is perfect for dancing and good times! The group has quickly become one of the top swing bands on the scene in NYC. They most recently headlined the outdoor swing dance at Lincoln Center- The group released their debut full-length self-titled album on July 28th on all digital platforms. Additionally, they perform at top venues around town, such as The Plaza Hotel, The Whitney Museum, The Public, The Players Club, The Montauk Club, and The Standard, among others; and recently celebrated the first anniversary of a Wednesday Night weekly residency during GOTHAM JAZZ at the popular nightclub, Somewhere Nowhere, to acclaim in the press and local dancers. They also have performed at Prohibition Production’s sold-out Mardi Gras, Mad Hatter’s Ball, and Gotham Jazz Festival (2019 and 2023); International Lindy Hop Championships “After Party”(ILHC 2022), the Cornell University Swing Weekend in 2022 & 2023, The Back Room (NYC’s last Prohibition-era speakeasy). The Hot Toddies are led by Grammy-nominated GABE TERRACIANNO (Turtle Island String Quartet, Avalon Jazz Band) and noted composer & producer PATRICK SOLURI (Prohibition Productions), the band features some of the top musicians in the swing & jazz worlds, including JUSTIN POINDEXTER (Jazz at Lincoln Center), DAN LEVINSON (Mel Torme, Woody Allen), RON WILKINS (Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Dizzy Gilespie), plus noted vocalists QUEEN ESTHER (James “Blood” Ulmer), and HANNAH GILL (Postmodern Jukebox,), as well as special guest pianist GORDON WEBSTER.
11- Grant Green Jr. Interview
Grant Green Jr. discusses his latest album, Thank You, Mr. Bacharach, and the music and life of his legendary father, Grant Green.
Grant Green Jr. is a jazz guitarist and the eldest son of jazz guitarist Grant Green. He was a member of the group Masters of Groove with Bernard Perdie and Rueben Wilson. Born in St Louis, Missouri, on August 4, 1955, Grant Green Jr. started playing guitar at fourteen. In 1969 he moved to Detroit with his father, who died ten years later. His neighbors included Stevie Wonder's parents, Marvin Gaye, and members of the Four Tops. He has worked with Richard "Groove" Holmes, Leon Thomas, Jimmy McGriff, Lou Donaldson, and Lonnie Smith.
Grant Green Jr. is a jazz guitarist and the eldest son of jazz guitarist Grant Green. He was a member of the group Masters of Groove with Bernard Perdie and Rueben Wilson. Born in St Louis, Missouri, on August 4, 1955, Grant Green Jr. started playing guitar at fourteen. In 1969 he moved to Detroit with his father, who died ten years later. His neighbors included Stevie Wonder's parents, Marvin Gaye, and members of the Four Tops. He has worked with Richard "Groove" Holmes, Leon Thomas, Jimmy McGriff, Lou Donaldson, and Lonnie Smith.
10- Joe Farnsworth Interview
One of the most highly regarded jazz drummers on the scene today, Joe is known for his blazing speed, precision, musical, and melodic playing. Born in South Hadley, Massachusetts in 1968, Joe grew up in a musical family; his father was a music educator and he has four older brothers, two of whom became professional musicians. He studied with Alan Dawson and Art Taylor prior to attending and graduating from William Patterson College in New Jersey in 1994 where he began playing with saxophonist, Eric Alexander and guitarist, Peter Bernstein Upon moving to New York City, he led the weekend jazz combos at Augie’s (now Smoke Jazz and Supper Club). He performed with Junior Cook, Cecil Payne, John Ore, Big John Patton, Harold Mabern, Eddie Henderson, John Jenkins and his brothers, John and James.
Farnsworth's career includes recording over 100 CD’s as leader and side-man, jazz festivals and world tours with Wynton Marsalis, Brad Mehldau, Pharoah Sanders, Horace Silver, Harold Mabern, McCoy Tyner, Cedar Walton, Diana Krall, Benny Golson, George Coleman, Johnny Griffin, Lou Donaldson, Benny Green, Barry Harris, and Curtis Fuller.
Farnsworth's career includes recording over 100 CD’s as leader and side-man, jazz festivals and world tours with Wynton Marsalis, Brad Mehldau, Pharoah Sanders, Horace Silver, Harold Mabern, McCoy Tyner, Cedar Walton, Diana Krall, Benny Golson, George Coleman, Johnny Griffin, Lou Donaldson, Benny Green, Barry Harris, and Curtis Fuller.
9- Steve Myerson Interview
Steve Myerson is a gifted pianist and music educator living in North Jersey. He has been part of several impressive projects and bands and has toured with the legendary Philadelphia soul group The Stylistics. Enjoy this conversation between host Jay Sweet and Steve Myerson!
8- Chuck Lambert Interview
Chuck's musical education started long before he picked up a guitar. At age eight, he studied oboe and piano. Four years later his godfather exposed him to the musical diversity of Caribbean culture and encouraged him to play guitar. While in high school he played bass and guitar in small R&B combos, rubbing elbows and jamming with future members of Parliament Funkadelic. While attending Lafayette College in the early 70's, he was a member of the Tim McCabe Blues Gang. The band's primary function was that of a backup band for touring blues legends on the East Coast college circuit. It was then that he was able to play for legends John Lee Hooker, J.B. Hutto and Screamin' Jay Hawkins. He also gained valuable exposure playing college parties and small clubs in the Delaware River Valley.
Most recently, Chuck has been playing guitar and singing his blues for crowds up and down the Jersey Shore, Philadelphia New York City and metropolitan New York areas while always returning to play venues in his hometown of Red Bank, NJ. As a member of the Norman Seldin Big Band, The Panama Chapel Band, The Cal Vetrane Blues Band, The Haugenes Project and a guest artist with The Red Bank Blues Band, Heavy Soul, Herd of Blues, Al Holmes and The Tribe, Poppa John and The Jam Band he has lent his vocal talents and guitar to many a fantastic night.
Chuck has led the band as they opened for popular artists such as Little Feat and Kenny Wayne Shepard. The band has performed in prestigious musical venues like NJPAC, The Count Basie Theatre and SOPAC. They have performed at Le Festiblues International de Montreal; The Riverhead Blues Festival in Riverhead L.I.; The Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival at Six Flags Great Adventure, Freehold NJ; The Westfield Jazz & Blues Festival in Westfield NJ; The Red Bank Jazz & Blues Festival, Riverfest and The Jazz in the Park Series in Red Bank NJ; The Clearwater Festival at Gateway National Park at Sandy Hook NJ and Asbury Park NJ; The Blues by The Beach Concert Series in Long Branch NJ and represented The Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation in 2007 and 2013 at The International Blues Competition held in Memphis Tenn.
Most recently, Chuck has been playing guitar and singing his blues for crowds up and down the Jersey Shore, Philadelphia New York City and metropolitan New York areas while always returning to play venues in his hometown of Red Bank, NJ. As a member of the Norman Seldin Big Band, The Panama Chapel Band, The Cal Vetrane Blues Band, The Haugenes Project and a guest artist with The Red Bank Blues Band, Heavy Soul, Herd of Blues, Al Holmes and The Tribe, Poppa John and The Jam Band he has lent his vocal talents and guitar to many a fantastic night.
Chuck has led the band as they opened for popular artists such as Little Feat and Kenny Wayne Shepard. The band has performed in prestigious musical venues like NJPAC, The Count Basie Theatre and SOPAC. They have performed at Le Festiblues International de Montreal; The Riverhead Blues Festival in Riverhead L.I.; The Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival at Six Flags Great Adventure, Freehold NJ; The Westfield Jazz & Blues Festival in Westfield NJ; The Red Bank Jazz & Blues Festival, Riverfest and The Jazz in the Park Series in Red Bank NJ; The Clearwater Festival at Gateway National Park at Sandy Hook NJ and Asbury Park NJ; The Blues by The Beach Concert Series in Long Branch NJ and represented The Jersey Shore Jazz and Blues Foundation in 2007 and 2013 at The International Blues Competition held in Memphis Tenn.
7- Rufus Reid Interview
With an incredible resume as a sideman, bandleader, and educator, bassist Rufus Reid represents one of the most significant links to the great jazz tradition. His remarkable accomplishments have not gone unnoticed, and Reid has worked and recorded with legends like Eddie Harris, Dexter Gordon, Andrew Hill, The Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Quartet, Kenny Barron, Stan Getz, J.J. Johnson, Jack DeJohnette, and many others. In fact, he has recorded on over 500 albums. His reputation as an educator is equal to that of his musical achievements. His book (Myriad Limited, 1974) remains the industry standard for double bass methodology. Reid and Dr. Martin Krivin created the Jazz Studies and Performance Bachelor of Music Program at William Paterson University. This program offered the first professional academically accredited Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies in the NY, NJ, and CT tri-state areas. On November 19, 2022, Mr. Reid was honored as part of the Giants of Jazz Series at the South Orange Performing Arts Center in New Jersey. Before the celebration, I was asked to interview the bassist for New Jersey Jazz Magazine, and here is that interview.
6- Vincent Herring Interview
Vincent Herring is a masterful alto and soprano saxophonist who first toured the U.S. and Europe with Lionel Hampton’s Band. Heavily influenced by Julian “Cannonball” Adderley, Herring's talents came to the attention of Nat Adderley (Cannonball’s Brother). He joined the trumpeter's band and toured and recorded with the group for nine years. After Nat’s death, He worked with drummer Louis Hayes to form the Cannonball Adderley Legacy Band and worked with piano master Cedar Walton for more than two decades. Additionally, he has also appeared on stage and or on recordings with Freddie Hubbard, Dizzy Gillespie, Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers, Wynton Marsalis, Horace Silver Quintet, Jack DeJohnette’s Special Edition, Larry Coryell, Steve Turre, The Mingus Big Band (Won a Grammy in 2010), Kenny Barron, Nancy Wilson, Dr. Billy Taylor, Carla Bley, and so many more. Vincent's discography reveals over 20 titles as a leader and over 250 as a sideman. Herring is also a noted educator who teaches at the Manhattan School Of Music and William Patterson University.
5- George Benson Interview
George Benson is a legendary jazz guitarist, singer, and songwriter. In fact, he is one of the greatest guitarists ever to pick up the instrument. He has had a career that has spanned over seven decades, won over ten Grammy Awards, and charted four top ten albums on the Billboard Chart, including the number one album Breezin (Warner Brothers) from 1976, which has sold an estimated 10 million records. At age 80, George Benson is on tour, and I was fortunate to speak with him regarding his upcoming performance at the NJPAC in Newark on June 2nd for New Jersey Jazz Magazine.
4- Bruce Williams Interview (5/4/2023)
Bruce Williams is a jazz saxophonist who hails from our nation's capital of Washington, D.C. He has made his presence known on the jazz scene by garnering critical attention with his own enthusiastically received CD releases - "Brotherhood" and "Altoicity" - issued on Savant Records. He's made an indelible impression as a sideman on over twenty other CD and video recordings. Bruce has performed, toured, and recorded with a long roster of jazz legends - Little Jimmy Scott, Frank Foster, The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Stanley Cowell, Louis Smith, Cecil Brooks III, The Count Basie Orchestra, The World Saxophone Quartet, Russell Gunn, Curtis Fuller, and Roy Hargrove to name a few.
Bruce Williams is a versatile saxophone stylist, performing in a variety of diverse playing environments - from traditional to hip-hop to the avant-garde. He has been an honored recipient of awards from DownBeat magazine and The Charlie Parker Music and More Foundation. His ability to perform masterfully in a range of jazz styles has placed him on two Grammy nominated recordings and sent him to numerous cities throughout the US and abroad in France, Italy, Germany, Scandinavia, the West Indies, Lebanon, and Japan.
Bruce Williams is currently the newest and youngest member, of the internationally recognized jazz group, "The World Saxophone Quartet". Bruce is currently a member of a newly founded group by legendary drummer Ben Riley, the "Thelonious Monk Legacy Septet". Bruce also leads four bands of his own - a quartet, a quintet, a jazz organ trio, and a progressive electric jazz group.
A noted jazz educator and mentor to young jazz musicians; Bruce has given master classes at Ohio State, Iowa State, The Jazz Institute of New Jersey, The University of the District of Columbia, Princeton University, The New Jersey Performing Arts Center "Jazz For Teens" program, and the Paris Conservatory in France. He has served as adjunct saxophone instructor at both the New School for Social Research (Mannes School of Music) in NYC, Princeton, and Bard College . He's currently an ensemble coach for the Jazz department at Julliard.
Bruce Williams has been mentored by some of the best in the business including Frank Foster, Branford Marsalis, Joe Ford, Laura George, William Shadle,Oliver Lake and Cecil Brooks III. All of the above experiences have aided Bruce Williams in becoming a confident doubler and one of the premier jazz alto and soprano saxophonists in the world today. (Republished from Brucewilliams-saxophone.com)
Bruce Williams is a versatile saxophone stylist, performing in a variety of diverse playing environments - from traditional to hip-hop to the avant-garde. He has been an honored recipient of awards from DownBeat magazine and The Charlie Parker Music and More Foundation. His ability to perform masterfully in a range of jazz styles has placed him on two Grammy nominated recordings and sent him to numerous cities throughout the US and abroad in France, Italy, Germany, Scandinavia, the West Indies, Lebanon, and Japan.
Bruce Williams is currently the newest and youngest member, of the internationally recognized jazz group, "The World Saxophone Quartet". Bruce is currently a member of a newly founded group by legendary drummer Ben Riley, the "Thelonious Monk Legacy Septet". Bruce also leads four bands of his own - a quartet, a quintet, a jazz organ trio, and a progressive electric jazz group.
A noted jazz educator and mentor to young jazz musicians; Bruce has given master classes at Ohio State, Iowa State, The Jazz Institute of New Jersey, The University of the District of Columbia, Princeton University, The New Jersey Performing Arts Center "Jazz For Teens" program, and the Paris Conservatory in France. He has served as adjunct saxophone instructor at both the New School for Social Research (Mannes School of Music) in NYC, Princeton, and Bard College . He's currently an ensemble coach for the Jazz department at Julliard.
Bruce Williams has been mentored by some of the best in the business including Frank Foster, Branford Marsalis, Joe Ford, Laura George, William Shadle,Oliver Lake and Cecil Brooks III. All of the above experiences have aided Bruce Williams in becoming a confident doubler and one of the premier jazz alto and soprano saxophonists in the world today. (Republished from Brucewilliams-saxophone.com)
3- George Coleman Jr. Interview
On this special episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing drummer George Coleman as we celebrate the release of his latest album Resurgence! Before releasing this record, George Jr. had performed with Joey DeFrancesco, Dakota Staton, Gregory Porter, and many others. Coleman Jr will perform on May 17 at Smoke Jazz Club in Manhattan. In addition to being a great artist in his own right, his father is George Coleman Sr., is one of the most celebrated jazz tenor saxophone players in jazz history and his mother, Gloria Coleman, is also a well-respected name in jazz. Hear the conversation and enjoy the music of George Coleman Jr.
2- Ron Carter Interview (4/14/2022)
For this show, you will hear Jay's discussion with bass legend Ron Carter from 4/14/2022. This interview occurred when he spoke to Ron Carter for a cover article celebrating his 85th birthday and his May 10th, 2022, Concert at Carnegie Hall celebrating the maestro for New Jersey Jazz Magazine (https://njjs.org/). Ron Carter is often listed as the "world's most recorded bassist." He has appeared on well over 2000 recordings and was a member of Miles Davis's second classic quartet from 1963-1968. He has won three Grammy awards and is on some of the greatest jazz albums ever recorded. He has also recorded numerous albums as a leader and has written many fine compositions. Most recently, he was featured in a biographical film called Ron Carter, Finding the Right Notes, which aired on PBS. To learn more about the legend go to https://roncarterjazz.com/
1- Stanley Clarke Interview (2/14/2023)
Stanley Clarke is a bass wizard who transformed the electric bass from its accompanying role and showed the world the possibilities of the electric bass as a solo instrument. Additionally, he is a virtuosic double bass player and an accomplished film composer. Clarke is a 5-time Grammy winner, with 15 nominations, 3 for his solo efforts, 1 with the Stanley Clarke Band, and 1 with the groundbreaking, Return to Forever, of which he was a founding member. In addition to all of his credits and activities, it turns out that Stanley Clarke is a really friendly guy with a great sense of humor, and as a lifelong fan of his music, it was a great honor to interview the legend.
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