It’s been a long time since I’ve posted, but the passing of the great bassist Gary Peacock has me reflecting on everything he taught me many years ago, and on how his wisdom inhabits my musical universe today. Overtones and the physics of sound, the “Wheel” of tritone resolutions, the “tendencies of tones,” and so much more. With a chalk board, a grand piano, and a healthy dose of humor, Peacock showed us how to enjoy music theory. In my … [Read more...]
Summer/Fall 2019 Gigs
The 2019 gig season is shaping up! First, in June, two hits with JJC Alumni & Friends Jazz Band... on the 18th, 7-8 pm @ La Quinta De Los Reyes in Aurora, and on the 20th, 7-8 pm @ Bicentennial Park in Joliet. On July 24th, 7:30-9 pm, the Southland Jazz Ensemble with vocalist Ava Logan returns to Main Street nights in Park Forest. Later, on October 20th, 3 pm, The JJC Faculty Jazz Quintet performs at Joliet Junior College. See the calendar … [Read more...]
I’m Available!
I miss playing with like-minded musicians and would like to get out and do more playing. So, if anyone out there needs a guitarist for that upcoming gig, please get in touch! … [Read more...]
Summer Gigs 2018
Well here we go again, the summer lineup is looking predictably fun: The JJC Alumni and Friends: June 19th, 7:00-8:00 p.m. @ La Quinta de los Reyes in Aurora opening for Pete Ellman's Big Band, and June 21st, 7:15-8:30 p.m. @ Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park in Joliet. The Southland Jazz Ensemble returns to Main Street Nights in Park Forest, July 18th, 6:30 p.m. Looking forward to backing up vocalists Ava Logan and Saalik Ziyad in this … [Read more...]
Blast from the past!
The first take of Parts Unknown was just a sound check in the studio, but it really captures the spirit of the trio with Matt Thompson and Joe Adamik. I miss playing with those guys! Enjoy! … [Read more...]
JJC Faculty Jazz, October 15th
Looking forward to hitting again with the JJC Faculty Jazz Quintet on October 15th @ 3:00 p.m. It's become a fun tradition to get together with these guys in October... we played together this summer as well, so we should be ready to cook! Best of all, this is a FREE performance, so please join us! … [Read more...]
Ted Vieira!
Ted Vieira! I had bring Ted back to the top of my list of posts. If you like what you see on my site, Ted is the guru (web designer and photographer) behind the new look, including responsive web design (take a look and listen on your phone). Ted is also a great guitarist and friend. Check him out at: Image Perceptions and Ted Vieira Jazz Guitarist. Thanks Ted! … [Read more...]
Intergalactic JAM Experience: April 23rd
So, last month's gathering of musicians and artists was so much fun that we decided to do it again! Bring your instrument, voice, sketch pad, etc. and join us: Sunday, April 23, 2017, 5:00 p.m. until who knows when! … [Read more...]
Video of the JJC Faculty Jazz Quintet
Greetings! Here is my tune Afternoon Again performed by the Joliet Junior College Faculty Jazz Quintet on October 16, 2016: https://youtu.be/dkZth8LYcAI … [Read more...]
First Friday Jazz at Fresh Starts Restaurant
Last evening (November 4th) I had a great time playing at Fresh Starts Restaurant in Flossmoor, Illinois with Valerie Nicholson (piano), Eugene Vinyard (tenor saxophone), and Ivan Taylor (bass). The idea is to continue on the first Friday of each month, but in December there is a special event already planned there. I hope this turns into a regular gig with these great musicians. By the way, the food and wine selections are real nice and … [Read more...]