Rabbit Hole Sessions with Abe Ovadia
Alle afleveringen
173 afleveringen, van nieuw naar oud
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EPISODE 120 - Neal Miner
19 februari 2025 · 31 min
Growing up surrounded by jazz, today's guest was introduced to the music by his father, Bill Miner—a respected jazz record collector and discographer. From an early age, he absorbed the sounds of classic records, attended live performances, and studied with some of the finest teachers, shaping him into one of the most in-demand bassists on the New York City jazz scene. Lees meer
With a career spanning decades, he has toured and recorded with legends like Jon Hendricks, Annie Ross, and Jane Monheit, contributing both as a bassist and arranger on multiple albums. As a leader, his six records showcase his deep musicality, compositional voice, and respect for the jazz tradition.
Whether on stage or in the classroom at The New School and City College of New York, he continues to carry the legacy of jazz forward.
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EPISODE 119 - Jonathan Epley
19 februari 2025 · 23 min
Hailing from the mountains of East Tennessee, today’s guest was immersed in the world of great guitar playing from an early age. With a deep connection to the instrument through his uncle, renowned Martin historian and luthier John Arnold, he had the rare opportunity to watch and learn from legends like Norman Blake and Doc Watson up close. Lees meer
Blending the traditions of bluegrass and folk with later influences of jazz, electric slide guitar, blues, and progressive rock, his approach to music is both rooted and adventurous—bridging genres with a unique and dynamic style.
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EPISODE 118 - Troy Roberts
19 februari 2025 · 27 min
A three-time GRAMMY-nominated saxophonist and composer, today’s guest has become one of the most in-demand musicians of his generation. Equally at home in a variety of styles, he has recorded and toured with legends like Joey DeFrancesco, Van Morrison, Jeff "Tain" Watts, Orrin Evans, Kurt Elling, and Veronica Swift, solidifying his reputation as a first-call saxophonist. Lees meer
With sixteen releases as a leader—including his latest, Green Lights, featuring John Patitucci, Paul Bollenback, and Jimmy Macbride—he continues to push boundaries both with his quartet and his electrifying project, Nu-Jive. His dynamic approach to the saxophone and fearless exploration of sound make him one of the most exciting voices in jazz today.
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EPISODE 117 - Randy Napoleon
17 februari 2025 · 29 min
A forward-thinking guitarist with deep roots in the jazz tradition, Randy Napoleon has spent decades shaping the sound of modern jazz. Currently an Associate Professor at Michigan State University, he honed his craft on the road with legends like Benny Green, The Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, Michael Bublé, and spent thirteen years with Freddy Cole. Lees meer
With over seventy recording credits, including Grammy-nominated projects, his playing and arrangements have been heard on major stages worldwide—from Royal Albert Hall to The Hollywood Bowl—and on television appearances spanning The Tonight Show to The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
Praised for his warm tone, intricate finger-style technique, and deep swing, Napoleon embodies the balance of tradition and innovation in jazz guitar.
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EPISODE 116 - Benjamin Sanz
17 februari 2025 · 26 min
Today, I’m joined by a drummer and composer whose work bridges the worlds of Black American music, African rhythms, and contemporary European jazz. Whether as a sideman, bandleader, or co-director, he has performed and recorded with some of the most innovative voices in modern music, including David Murray, Archie Shepp, Oliver Lake, and Joëlle Léandre. Lees meer
From co-leading the African jazz ensemble Benkadi to shaping Paris’s improvisational music scene with the MiRR collective, his artistry pushes the boundaries of rhythm, sound, and collaboration.
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EPISODE 115 - Luke Carlos O'Reilly
17 februari 2025 · 28 min
Today, I’m joined by an award-winning pianist and organist whose playing is deeply rooted in jazz, soul, R&B, gospel, Latin jazz, and classical music. Originally from Boston, he made his mark in Philadelphia, where he studied at Temple University and went on to perform and record with artists like Seal, Roy Ayers, Curtis Fuller, Nicholas Payton, Macy Gray, and many more. Lees meer
With three solo albums under his belt—including his powerful Black Lives Matter-inspired release I Too, Sing America: A Black Man’s Diary—he continues to push boundaries as both a performer and educator.
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EPISODE 114 - Marianne Solivan
13 februari 2025 · 32 min
Marianne Solivan is a jazz vocalist known for her rich tone, soulful delivery, and fearless improvisation. She has performed with top musicians like Christian McBride, Jeremy Pelt, and Peter Bernstein, captivating audiences with her dynamic stage presence. With multiple album releases, including Prisoner of Love, she brings a fresh yet classic approach to jazz vocals. Whether leading her own groups or collaborating with renowned artists, Solivan continues to make a powerful impact on the jazz scene. Lees meer
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EPISODE 113 - Mike Lee
13 februari 2025 · 25 min
Mike Lee is a saxophonist, composer, and educator who has been a key figure in the New York City and Northern New Jersey jazz scenes for many years. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, he has performed with legendary ensembles such as The Jimmy Heath Orchestra, The Dizzy Gillespie Orchestra, and The Roy Hargrove Big Band. He appears regularly at top venues like The Blue Note, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, and Smalls, while also touring internationally. In addition to his performing career, Lee is a dedicated educator, serving as Professor of Jazz Saxophone at Montclair State University and playing a vital role in developing Jazz House Kids’ education programs. Lees meer
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EPISODE 112 - Brad Whiteley
13 februari 2025 · 30 min
Brad Whiteley is a versatile pianist, organist, and music director known for his ability to elevate any musical setting. He has toured with Regina Spektor, conducted on Broadway, and played on a Grammy-nominated track. As a jazz musician, composer, and improviser, his debut album Pathless Land earned a four-star DownBeat review and was named an Editor’s Pick. Based in the Bronx, he serves as music director at Blessed Sacrament Church and Live Music Pros, balancing a dynamic career across genres. Lees meer
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EPISODE 111 - Max Light
12 februari 2025 · 33 min
Today, we’re joined by Max Light, a Brooklyn-based guitarist whose innovative playing has earned him accolades as one of the most promising voices in modern jazz. His latest release, Chaotic Neutral (AGS Recordings 2024), was described by Downbeat Magazine as “complex, shrouded in mystery and endlessly intriguing,” solidifying Max as a true trailblazer. Lees meer
From earning 2nd place in the prestigious Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz International Guitar Competition to collaborating with jazz luminaries like Noah Preminger, Donny McCaslin, and Christian Sands, Max has built an extraordinary career. Join us as we explore his creative journey, groundbreaking projects, and what makes him one of the most exciting guitarists of his generation.
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EPISODE 110 - Anthony Nelson, Jr.
12 februari 2025 · 21 min
Anthony Nelson, Jr. is a saxophonist, flautist, clarinetist, and composer known for blending jazz, gospel, funk, and neo-soul into a unique and captivating sound. A versatile musician, he has performed with legends such as Billy Hart, John Hicks, Regina Carter, and the Count Basie Orchestra. His recordings, including Testament: Live at Cecil’s and Tenor for Two, showcase his deep musical storytelling. Nelson also serves as the Artistic Director for the Jazz in the Sanctuary series at Shiloh Baptist Church, bringing world-class jazz to the community. He exclusively plays Vandoren mouthpieces, Yanagisawa saxophones, and Uebel clarinets. Lees meer
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EPISODE 109 - Jeff Williams (Part 1)
12 februari 2025 · 17 min
Jeff Williams is a drummer, composer, and educator born in Mount Vernon, Ohio, on July 6, 1950. He started playing drums at age seven and later studied at Berklee School of Music. Over his long career, he has performed with jazz legends like Lee Konitz, Stan Getz, Dave Liebman, and Richie Beirach. He has led his own groups, including Coalescence and Circadian Rhythms, and has also been part of the trio Interplay. Williams has taught at the Royal Academy of Music and Birmingham Conservatoire and is married to author Lionel Shriver. Lees meer
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SOLO SESSION - Answering Your Questions
12 februari 2025 · 21 min
“Abe Ovadia is one of the true treasures of the Jazz Guitar world. Renowned as a leader among contemporary Jazz artists. He headlines on the stages of the most famous Jazz Venues…this man has been a dedicated supporter of directly educating our youth in schools and adults in public centers. He believes the art of jazz guitar belongs to all people to know and enjoy, not a select elite. Lees meer
Abe Ovadia carves out precious time from his very busy schedule whether on tour or performing in his NYC region. We enthusiastically applaud Abe Ovadia’s long standing and ongoing tireless crusade to include and educate the uninitiated, inexperienced and uneducated in this American art form.”
Matt Eichen, President
MUSICVOX GUITARS
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EPISODE 108 - Noah Jackson
10 februari 2025 · 25 min
Noah Jackson is a bassist, cellist, composer, and curator from Detroit, Michigan. As a member of NEA Jazz Master Abdullah Ibrahim's ensemble Ekaya, Mr. Jackson has performed internationally to critical acclaim and recorded the latest album, The Balance, released in 2019 which reached #3 on the Billboard Jazz Charts (July 2019). He has also recorded Nnenna Freelon’s latest release- Time Traveler which has reached #4 on Jazz Week (July 2021). Mr. Jackson has also performed with Nnenna Freelon, Branford Marsalis, The Marsalis Family, Kenny Garrett, Jason Marsalis, George Burton, Jazzmeia Horn, Christian Sands, and Winard Harper. Noah Jackson is also a member of the Recording Academy. Lees meer
As of March 2021, Noah was also appointed as curator, creative director, and artist-in-residence at Cliff Bell’s, a Jazz Club in Downtown Detroit- responsible for the curation, promotion, and contracting artists 5 nights weekly. He holds a weekly residency with his band Full Circle.
A recipient of the Creative Engagement and UMEZ grants from the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council and the State of New York, he produced a work based on the music of Duke Ellington- On A Turquoise Cloud at the Schomburg Center in September 2019 and performed at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra @ The Cube in February 2020. His group also recorded an album, "Contemplations: A Suite" in 2011, which has garnered critical praise.
As a leader of the Ase string quartet, Mr. Jackson was commissioned to compose and direct the quartet in a multidisciplinary collaborative art project- Practicing: Silence at Grace Farms under the direction of Kenyon Adams as part of their Practicing series alongside featured dancers from the American Ballet Theater. He has also led his Detroit-based Tangent String Quartet in a rare performance of Quartet No.2 by black composer Florence B. Price as part of a video series presented by the Detroit Institute of the Arts in February 2021.
A graduate of Michigan State University (B.M.) under t…
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EPISODE 107 - Zaccai Curtis
10 februari 2025 · 25 min
Zaccai Curtis moved to New York City in 2005 where he’s connected with and regularly performed with artists such as: Lakecia Benjamin, Christian Scott, Donald Harrison, Cindy Blackman Santana, Eddie Palmieri, Brian Lynch, the Mambo Legends, Abraham Burton, Ralph Peterson, Ray Vega, and Avery Sharpe among others. Lees meer
Currently Zaccai is a professor of music at the University of Hartford: Jackie McLean Jazz Studies Division and University of Rhode Island. Besides being an educator Zaccai authored two books “Art of the Guajeo” and “Theory of the Common Voicing” which are meant to aid students in their Jazz and Latin Jazz education. Zaccai composes and arranges for his own quartet and trio as well as for artists such as Little Johnny Rivero, Steve Kroon, Sonido Solar and more. In 2003 he was chosen as a winner of the ASCAP Young Jazz Composer’s competition and each year consecutively through 2006. Zaccai and his quartet were selected by the U.S. State Department to be in the American Music Abroad (Jazz Ambassadors) program two times in 2006. They performed in Bangladesh, Calcutta, Bangalore, Mumbai, Sri Lanka and Maldives. In 2007 Zaccai Curtis was awarded the ‘Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism’s Artist Fellowship’ for ‘original composition.’ In 2017 Curtis became a Chamber Music America: “New Jazz Works” grant recipient. In 2020 Zaccai was voted as the Rising Star in the Critics Poll for Downbeat Magazine. Most recently, Curtis has been invited to be the special guest director for 2023 CMEA Southern Regional High School Jazz Band.
When Zaccai is not busy being a sideman, he performs his own music with his group ‘Zaccai Curtis Quartet’ and ‘Sonido Solar’ and after five successful releases; He plans on releasing his next recording “Cubop Lives” in 2023.
Zaccai, along with his brother Luques, has developed the record label TRRcollective which is a collective of musicians that produce their own music and release it together. He is also proud to have produced an…
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EPISODE 106 - Julian Smith
10 februari 2025 · 23 min
I’m thrilled to feature Julian Smith, an extraordinary jazz bassist based in New York City. Originally from Chicago, Julian brings a unique blend of tradition and innovation to his music, honed through studies at Berklee College of Music and Rutgers University. A regular performer at NYC's best venues, Julian’s captivating tone and artistry have made him a rising star in the jazz world. Lees meer
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EPISODE 105 - Benito Gonzalez
6 februari 2025 · 27 min
🚀 Episode 105 is here! 🎙️ Lees meer
We're thrilled to welcome back the incredible Benito Gonzalez to Rabbit Hole Sessions with Abe Ovadia! 🔥
We dive into:
🎶 His new trio with Lenny White & Buster Williams
🎷 His work with the legendary Pharoah Sanders
💡 Turning life’s challenges into positivesTune in for an inspiring convo! Drop a 🎵 in the comments if you're listening!
#RabbitHoleSessions #JazzPodcast #BenitoGonzalez #LennyWhite #BusterWilliams #PharoahSanders #JazzLife #PodcastVibes 🎧✨
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EPISODE 104 - Ned Goold
6 februari 2025 · 26 min
Ned Goold is as distinctive an inside-outside tenor player as there is, and he should be a household name given the luck he's had with employment. Lees meer
Besides fronting his own trio on several CDs, he has been a mainstay of Harry Connick Jr.'s bands since the early '90s. Goold's unique tone combines something of the cool, sharp delivery of Bird and Charlie Rouse with the breathy insistence of Lester Young and subtle phraseology of Dizzy Gillespie.
His modern system of harmonic improvisation (based on 20th century serial concepts) brings the swing approach into the new century. Ned Goold is perhaps best known as a member of Harry Connick, Jr.'s backing band, but he has also performed with artists like Ben Wolfe, Brother Jack McDuff and the legendary Haitian group, Tabou Combo. In the early '80s, Goold got his start as a session saxophonist, playing paying gigs at night while studying his craft during the day. By 1990, his solo improvisation skills were well known enough for Harry Connick, Jr. to invite Goold into his band, and an additional gig with Connick's bassist Ben Wolfe followed shortly after.
In addition to his work on Connick's records and the showcase album Jazz Underground: Live At Smalls, Goold has released four solo albums, 1998's Goold and the following year's Entropy. He has since recorded and released two acclaimed CD's on Smalls records: The Flows and March of the Malcontents.
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EPISODE 103 - David Fiuczynski
6 februari 2025 · 26 min
David “Fuze” Fiuczynski is an iconoclastic innovator and a rebel with a guitar. Fluent in funk, rock, fusion, wicked fretless blues slides, Eastern melodicism, Western microtonalism and everything in-between, his remarkably open-minded and versatile approach to his instrument and music in general has made him a “first call” player, and lead to tours and recording projects with a remarkably diverse cast of characters, including Stewart Copeland (The Police), Jack DeJohnette (Miles Davis, John Coltrane), John Zorn, Hiromi, JoJo Mayer, Marc Guiliana (David Bowie), Bernie Worrell (P-Funk), Dennis Chambers, Me’shell NdegeOcello, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Marcus Miller, Billy Hart, John Medeski, Cuong Vu, Ronald Shannon Jackson’s Decoding Society and countless others. He has played on nearly 100 recordings as a session musician, band leader or band member, won a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2011 and is a professor at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. Best known as the leader of the Screaming Headless Torsos, KiF and as a member of Hasidic New Wave, Fuze launched Planet MicroJam, an institute that explores the use of microtones in groove, jazz, ethnic, folk and other contexts, in 2012. With this impressive resume under his belt, the mad-scientist guitar hero is now seeking to bring his music to new audiences. Lees meer
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EPISODE 102 - Peter Apfelbaum
5 februari 2025 · 34 min
Born in Berkeley, California in 1960, Peter Apfelbaum started playing drums at the age of three, taking up piano and saxophone in elementary school and forming his first band at age 11. A product of the Berkeley Schools' pioneering Jazz Project, Apfelbaum began performing professionally while in his early teens and was a member of the award-winning Berkeley High Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Phil Hardymon. In 1977 - his senior year at Berkeley High - he formed the 17-piece Hieroglyphics Ensemble as a vehicle for composing and exploring non-traditional musical forms. The Ensemble was initially largely comprised of fellow BHS classmates, some of whom would later move to New York and achieve recognition in their own right. The band originally included pianist Benny Green, saxophonist Craig Handy and trumpeter Steven Bernstein and would later feature saxophonist Joshua Redman prior to his move to NY. The band released their self-produced debut album, "Pillars", in 1979 and began to attract international attention for their unique mix of elements of world music with the aesthetic of the jazz avant-garde. Around this time Apfelbaum made his first sojourn to New York, where he worked with Carla Bley, David Amram and the late Eddie Jefferson. He toured Europe for the first time in the Fall of 1979 with Karl Berger's Woodstock Workshop Orchestra, an all-star band which included Lee Konitz, Oliver Lake, Don Cherry, Leroy Jenkins and Trilok Gurtu. In 1981 Apfelbaum returned to the Bay Area and resumed rehearsing regularly with the Hieroglyphics Ensemble. In the mid-80's he toured the U.S. with O.J. Ekemode and the Nigerian All-Stars (first on baritone saxophone, later on drums) and also worked regularly with Cuban percussionist Francisco Aguabella's band, as well as with local reggae and r&b bands. By 1988, the Hieroglyphics' performances had become more frequent, and in the Fall of that year Apfelbaum was commissioned by the San Francisco Jazz Festival to write a suit… Lees meer
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EPISODE 101 - Frank Basile
5 februari 2025 · 24 min
Since moving to New York in 2001, Frank Basile has been fortunate to establish himself as one of today's most in-demand baritone saxophonists. Lees meer
Dubbed a "prized sideman" by The New Yorker, Basile has been called upon to perform with, record with, and tour the world with many of jazz's finest musicians and ensembles. Among this distinguished list are The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, The Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band, The Jimmy Heath Big Band, The Bob Mintzer Big Band, The Jon Faddis Jazz Orchestra, The Joe Lovano Nonet, The Dave Holland Big Band, Dennis Mackrel's Manhattan Symphony Jazz Orchestra, The Christian McBride Big Band, The Count Basie Orchestra, Michael Bublé, Pablo Mayor’s Folklore Urbano, The Richie Vitale Quintet, The Fabien Mary Quintet, and The Osian Roberts-Steve Fishwick Sextet.
Born in Illinois in 1978 and raised in Nebraska, Frank Basile began his musical studies in grade school. After four years on clarinet and alto saxophone, he made a permanent switch to the baritone saxophone. Once in high school, Basile’s interest in jazz began to grow and, with the help and encouragement of his parents, he sought out further instruction on the ins and outs of this great music. Basile was soon playing in numerous big bands and combos throughout the Omaha area.
Basile enrolled at the University of North Texas to continue his musical studies. While at UNT, Basile played in the world-renowned One O’clock Lab Band for six consecutive semesters. After graduating with honors and a bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies from UNT, Basile moved to New York in the summer of 2001 as a selected member of the first Jazz Studies program at the Juilliard School.
As an educator, Basile has maintained a private studio for the past decade and has served as an adjunct faculty member at The New School. He has also been called upon to teach lessons or masterclasses at such institutions as New York University, the Eastman School of Music, Temple University, the University of North C…
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SOLO SESSION: First Solo Pod
5 februari 2025 · 11 min
“Abe Ovadia is one of the true treasures of the Jazz Guitar world. Renowned as a leader among contemporary Jazz artists. He headlines on the stages of the most famous Jazz Venues…this man has been a dedicated supporter of directly educating our youth in schools and adults in public centers. He believes the art of jazz guitar belongs to all people to know and enjoy, not a select elite. Lees meer
Abe Ovadia carves out precious time from his very busy schedule whether on tour or performing in his NYC region. We enthusiastically applaud Abe Ovadia’s long standing and ongoing tireless crusade to include and educate the uninitiated, inexperienced and uneducated in this American art form.”
Matt Eichen, President
MUSICVOX GUITARS
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EPISODE 100 - Nick Biello
3 februari 2025 · 36 min
Welcome back to the podcast, saxophonist Nick Biello! We're excited to have him join us again for another great conversation. If you haven’t seen his previous episode, be sure to check it out to learn more about his incredible journey and deep insights into jazz. Lees meer
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EPISODE 99 - Eric Wyatt
3 februari 2025 · 34 min
Welcome back to the podcast, saxophonist Eric Wyatt! We're excited to have him join us again for another great conversation. If you haven’t seen his previous episode, be sure to check it out to learn more about his incredible journey and deep insights into jazz. Lees meer
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EPISODE 98 - Paul Sikivie
30 januari 2025 · 27 min
Paul Sikivie is an American jazz double bassist. Originally from Gainesville, Florida, he has lived in New York City since 2007, when he began studies at the Juilliard School. He has played with many artists of international stature, including long associations with Cecile McLorin Salvant, Aaron Diehl, Matt Wilson, Johnny O'Neal, Ted Nash, and Grant Stewart. Lees meer
Since 2015, Sikivie has turned attention towards composition and arranging. Most notably, he melded string quartet and jazz piano trio for six pieces on McLorin Salvant's Dreams and Daggers, which was awarded the 2018 Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album.
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EPISODE 97 - Roni Ben-Hur
30 januari 2025 · 22 min
Jazz guitarist Roni Ben-Hur has earned a sterling reputation as a musician and educator, renowned for his golden tone, improvisational brilliance, compositional lyricism and ability to charm peers, students and listeners alike. Eminent jazz critic Gary Giddins wrote in the Village Voice: “A limber and inventive guitarist, Ben-Hur keeps the flame alive and pure, burning in every note… He’s a guitarist who knows the changes and his own mind.” Roni — born in Israel in 1962 but a longtime American citizen, based in the New York City area — has recorded a dozen-plus albums as leader or co-leader, with The New York Times praising his “crisp, fluid style” and Time Out New York calling him “a formidable and consummately lyrical guitarist.” He has developed a rare facility in both straight-ahead jazz and samba/bossa-nova styles, underscored by his work with masters in each field, from bebop piano sage Barry Harris and winds ace Frank Wess to beloved Brazilian vocalist Leny Andrade and composer Marcus Valle. Lees meer
Roni’s newest album as a leader, Stories — released by Dot Time Records in March 2021 — features a poetic mix of songs and instrumentals, one that sees the guitarist tracing a line from childhood musical memories in Israel to his life today as a globally minded artist. JazzTimes, in its glowing review of Stories, noted the guitarist’s inspired interplay with such generationally diverse talents as pianist George Cables and trumpeter Ingrid Jensen, as well as vocalists from Israel and Mexico; the review went on to laud Roni and company’s brand of storytelling as “distinctive” and “uniformly engaging.” Always an educator as well as a performer, Roni has directed the jazz program at New York’s Kaufman Music Center for more than 25 years. Along with creating acclaimed educational products – such as the method book Talk Jazz: Guitar — Roni has also directed international music camps for two decades, currently leading his Roni Ben-Hur Jazz Camp in Vermont and France. Jazz guit…
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EPISODE 96 - Ben Wolfe
29 januari 2025 · 30 min
New York bassist/composer and bandleader Ben Wolfe’s music has been described as “Mingus and Miles Davis meet Bartok and Bernard Herrmann” (Ben Ratliff – The New York Times). With acclaim by some of the jazz world’s most respected critics, Wolfe continues to produce works that draw top-flight reviews from fans and jazz journalists alike. Lees meer
Ben’s 2024 release The Understated is his eleventh as leader and features all original compositions. Nicole Glover who plays tenor saxophone on the record says in her liner notes “This record succeeds in bringing Ben’s beautiful music to life through extremely conscientious group playing. Nothing is forced or pushed; everything that needs to be stated is stated.”
“The Understated is a beauty.” (Carlo Wolff, Downbeat)
In many ways, The Understated is a continuation of his previous release the critically acclaimed Unjust. “Unjust is a brilliant work of melodic ensemble writing and superb playing by a stellar intergenerational crew.” (Bill Milkowski, Downbeat).
It’s balance – of elegance and propulsion, of accessibility and edge – distinguishes it from most conventional jazz. Its details reward repeated listening.” (Larry Blumenfeld, Wall Street Journal)
There is no doubt that after decades as one of the most sought-after bassists in jazz, performing with top names such as Wynton Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr., Diana Krall and many others, award-winning composer and bandleader Ben Wolfe is clear about his creative direction…
“Much of the music I’ve composed; particularly the music that includes strings, I think of as chamber music within a jazz context.”
An award-winning composer, Ben is a two-time recipient of Chamber Music America’s New Works: Creation and Presentation Program Grant through the Doris Duke Foundation. First received in 2004, Ben was able to use this funding to compose his extended work “Contradiction: Music for Sextet.” He received the grant in 2020 and composed “Nonet”. Both of these extended works have been rec…
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EPISODE 95 - Jeff Miles
29 januari 2025 · 34 min
An American guitarist, composer and producer from San Diego, California, Jeff Miles is a Berklee College of Music alum and the winner of the 2008 Montreux Jazz Guitar competition. Featured on numerous recordings, Jeff is sought after for his orchestral pallet of sounds and blistering, evocative improvisations. He has performed around the world in venues such as The Monterrey Jazz Festival, Montreux Jazz Festival, Las Condes Jazz Festival, Saulkrasti Jazz Festival, Blues Alley, Bar Next Door, 55 Bar and Smalls Jazz Club. He currently resides in Brooklyn, New York. Lees meer
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BONUS EPISODE 2 - Brian Pace
29 januari 2025 · 25 min
Ever since Brian Pace emceed his kindergarten production of Star Wars, the microphone was always the place where he’s felt most comfortable. In fact, Pace’s journey has not always been an easy one, but through God’s grace and speed, he’s allowed him to become one of the most innovative and well-researched journalists in America. Lees meer
Brian was born on June 1st, 1972 in Indianapolis, Indiana. His father was a scientist who eventually became a teacher and mom was a school psychologist. “My parents always stressed the importance of reading and education as a means to be self-reliant and to become your own person,” he explains. “My mother, who retired from the Indianapolis Public School system, claims I was reading at 18 months.”
Brian’s social skills were both a blessing and a curse for him and his parents. As a child, his teachers were always calling home telling them about his excessive joke telling or, how he was the one who took leadership on a major project. These skills eventually paid off as he would become a successful producer.
His first exposed to radio and television was through WJEL-TV and FM at North Central High School. It was also during his junior year of high school the Youth Telecommunications Workshop of Indiana Black Expo brought the nationally syndicated Black Entertainment Television program “Rap City” for a taping. North Central was undergoing lots of racial tensions at the time and Indiana Black Expo’s program was a way to break the ice. While they were taping, Pace, who was the class comedian, made his debut as co-host of the “Rap City” with co-host and comedian Chris Thomas. He would co-host the program again during his senior year of high school.
Although Brian wasn’t asked back for his senior year at WJEL, the Youth Telecommunications Workshop invited him to join their program. “Gary Holland and IBE staff were the guys who helped me gain the business and professional side of not just television, but life,” explains Pace. “It it weren’t for t…
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EPISODE 94 - Ken Wessel
27 januari 2025 · 28 min
Ken Wessel is a versatile, sensitive and soulful guitarist and composer. A vital and personal voice on the jazz guitar, Wessel has been involved in projects playing jazz, ranging from straight-ahead to free music. Ken is also very interested in creating and investigating points of intersection between jazz and Indian music and has performed and recorded with musicians from various parts of the globe. He has performed in 27 countries at major jazz festivals, concert halls and in radio and television appearances. Lees meer
Wessel worked with revolutionary jazz artist Ornette Coleman for over 12 years (1988-2000), touring the world as a member of Prime Time, Ornette’s groundbreaking ensemble. Ken can be heard on Ornette Coleman’s critically acclaimed Polygram/Verve CD, Tone Dialing. Performing “Skies of America,” Ornette Coleman’s seminal work for symphony orchestra and jazz ensemble, Ken has appeared with Kurt Masur and the New York Philharmonic and London’s Philharmonia Orchestra. Ken can also be heard on Steely Dan frontman, Donald Fagen’s album, Morph the Cat as a featured guitar soloist. He has worked with artists from different shades of the jazz spectrum, including John Abercrombie, David Liebman, Gloria Lynne, Arthur and Red Prysock, Karl Berger, Steve Gorn, Adam Rudolph, Hamid Drake, Steve Turre and Johnny Hartmann.
Ken has a strong interest in world music, particularly with North Indian music, and he has performed with Debashish Bhattacharya, Karaikudi Mani, V.M. Bhatt, Samir Chatterjee and others. Wessel co-leads a trio with jazz tabla master Badal Roy and bassist Stomu Takeishi. Their CD, Daybreak, was included in JAZZIZ magazine’s Top 10 Critic’s Picks of 1998. They have performed together extensively throughout North America. In 1995, Ken and Badal toured India and the U.S. with their composition, “Testimony,” which was commissioned by the Battery Dance Company. As a U.S. Jazz Ambassador, Ken has toured South Asia and South America, visiting India, Thailand, Sri…
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EPISODE 93 - Glenn White
27 januari 2025 · 22 min
"Critics and listeners alike have praised saxophonist Glenn White for his innovative compositions and commanding presence. NextBop describes his work as 'grand, elegant, even somber in some places... kind of perfect,' while Jazz Weekly highlights his 'sophisticated mix of probing and intriguing original compositions.' With a soulful, warm tone and a flair for blending tradition with modern textures, White's music has been called 'progressive jazz made accessible' (All About Jazz) and 'heavy with emotion, with great power' (Hartford Courant). His artistry, both as a composer and performer, continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of contemporary jazz." Lees meer
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EPISODE 92 - Geoffrey Keezer
27 januari 2025 · 29 min
Geoffrey Keezer is a GRAMMY®-winning pianist, composer, arranger and producer based in New York City. A native of Eau Claire, Wisconsin, he began playing piano and composing at an early age. After briefly attending the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Keezer moved to New York in 1989, becoming the last pianist with the legendary Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. Keezer has toured and recorded with Ray Brown, Roy Hargrove, Joshua Redman, Diana Krall, Art Farmer, Benny Golson, Barbara Hendricks, Wayne Shorter, Dianne Reeves, David Sanborn, Chris Botti, Sting, Joe Locke and Christian McBride; produced and arranged three GRAMMY®-nominated recordings with vocalist Denise Donatelli, and released a series of albums drawing influences from Hawaiian, Okinawan and Afro-Peruvian folk traditions. His 2009 album Áurea (ArtistShare) was nominated for a Best Latin Jazz Album GRAMMY® award. Geoffrey’s 2013 solo piano release, Heart of the Piano (Motema Records), seeks to redefine solo jazz piano as a personal and interactive showcase of melody, energy and groove, while his 2018 album On My Way to You (MarKeez Records) is a stunning set of music featuring his working trio with the addition of guest vocalist Gillian Margot. Keezer’s latest album Playdate(MarKeez Records) earned a 2023 GRAMMY® in the Best Instrumental Composition category for his song “Refuge”. Lees meer
Geoffrey’s compositions have been commissioned by the Mainly Mozart Festival, Art of Elán ensemble, Saint Joseph Ballet, Zeltsman Marimba Festival, Carnegie Hall Jazz Orchestra and Scottish National Jazz Orchestra. His music can be heard in the films What Happens in Vegas, The Wedding Year, and Inhale, and in numerous TV shows including The Young and the Restless, Parks and Recreation, Casual, House of Lies, Call Me Kat, American Crime Story, Clarice, and The Originals.
Time Magazine wrote, “Geoffrey has more than enough virtuosity and sheer musical wit and intelligence to weave all of his apparently disparate strands o…
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EPISODE 91 - Bob DeVos
27 januari 2025 · 23 min
Acclaimed guitarist, composer and bandleader Bob DeVos has enjoyed over 50 years as an in-demand player. With long, blues-drenched melodic lines and a horn-like approach, he has a signature style of groove and sophistication. From solo to big band, Bob is a modern player with strong traditional roots, equally at home with straight-ahead jazz, blues, Rhythm & Blues, funk, Latin, and more. Lees meer
A master with a full, warm sound, in his formative years Bob toured and recorded with the giants of organ jazz–Trudy Pitts, Richard “Groove” Holmes & Sonny Stitt, Jimmy McGriff & Hank Crawford, and Charles “The Mighty Burner” Earland’s greatest band. Bob went on to perform with a Who’s Who in and out of the organ genre: “I feel fortunate to have played with these larger-than-life masters; each had a strong identity. I gained profound insights into the music, how to be a musician, and finding my own voice.”
Beginning with Breaking The Ice (produced by Charles Earland) DeVos’ CDs as a leader for HighNote/Savant and other labels have earned rave reviews and many stars in Downbeat and throughout the jazz media, were among the top five on JazzWeek’s National Airplay Chart for many months, and appeared on many yearly top CDs lists. Longtime collaborator Eric Alexander appears on Bob’s Shifting Sands and Playing for Keeps. His most current CDs are the hip Shadow Box featuring Ralph Bowen and the lustrous Six String Solos.
DeVos currently leads his own groups and collaborates with vibraphonist Behn Gillece and with pianist Andy LaVerne. Bob was the musical director and guitarist for the famed concert, An Organ Summit Supreme, reuniting with Jimmy McGriff, Dr. Lonnie Smith and Trudy Pitts and tenor legends David “Fathead” Newman and Houston Person.
Bob studied jazz as a teenager with Harry Leahy and the legendary Dennis Sandole. When Sandole sent his students to replace Pat Martino in Trudy Pitts’ Trio, Bob got the gig. Bob deepened his compositional and harmonic approach while playing …
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EPISODE 90 - Nick Hempton
23 januari 2025 · 27 min
Growing up on the mean streets of Sydney, Hempton and the Jazz School system didn’t see eye to eye, and he learnt to play jazz the old-fashioned way: jam sessions at local clubs and late night practice sessions on Sydney’s famous Harbour Bridge. A year at sea working on the cruise ships raised the funds for a flight, and in January 2004 he touched down in NYC. Lees meer
From 2005 to 2016 Nick led The Nick Hempton Band, delivering “highly entertaining, hard-driving and solid swinging modern jazz,” (E–Jazz News) to most of the major New York venues, as well as touring regionally and internationally. With this group, Nick released four highly-praised studio albums: “Nick Hempton Band” (self-released, 2008); “The Business” (Posi-Tone, 2011); “Odd Man Out” (Posi-Tone, 2013); and in 2015, the innovative “Catch and Release,” which was recorded and released track-by-track over the course of a year. This was followed by the pared-back “Trio Stonk” (SmallsLive, 2017), recorded live at NYC’s famed Smalls Jazz Club.
In 2018, after years of flirting with the organ band format, Nick recorded his sixth album, the organ quartet outing, “Night Owl.” Featuring renowned guitar ace Peter Bernstein, Night Owl harkens back to the classic ‘60s organ band sound, “that greasy, funky soul-jazz popularized by the likes of Lou Donaldson, Grant Green and Stanley Turrentine... complete with a Gene Ammons-grade soul tenor sax.” (Something Else Reviews). “Night Owl” was such a gas, Nick took the same band back to the same studio, and the hotly-anticipated follow-up, “Slick,” was released to much acclaim in November 2021.
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EPISODE 89 - Amanda Monaco
23 januari 2025 · 31 min
Amanda Monaco has performed at venues such as Jazz at Lincoln Center, Birdland, Jazz Standard, and the Blue Note, and with artists such as Milt Hinton and the Mingus Orchestra. She has released eight albums as a leader. Her current jazz projects include her eclectic quartet Deathblow, rambunctious organ quartet Glitter, and all-female sextet Lioness. Her Pirkei Avot Project performs her original music with lyrics from selected verses (from a collection of rabbinical teachings with the same name) compiled in the third century C.E. Lees meer
Monaco’s guitar playing is “well within the modernist canon, but quite distinctive: her phrasing is often made up of tartly dissonant chords and insistent yet off-kilter repetitions that remind one of Grant Green by way of Andrew Hill... her playing is utterly unique, a breath of fresh air in the cookie-cutter climes of both mainstream and free jazz.” (Clifford Allen, The New York City Jazz Record)
Monaco is an Associate Professor at Berklee College of Music, where she has taught private instruction, labs, and ensembles since 2011. She also teaches for Berklee Online and recorded a MOOC (Massive Open Online Course), available worldwide at www.coursera.com. Monaco's book, Jazz Guitar for the Absolute Beginner was published by Alfred in 2004. In 2022, she joined the guitar faculty at Boston’s New England Conservatory.
Monaco is the Artistic Director of Convergence Arts, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization whose mission is to share the art and fun of improvisation with people of all ages. Convergence has presented festivals in New York City such at the Six String Summit (showcasing guitarists Nels Cline and Julian Lage, among others), the Queens Jazz OverGround’s Spring Jazz Fest, and the Lioness™: Women in Jazz Concert Series.
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EPISODE 88 - Chris Crocco
23 januari 2025 · 35 min
Christopher Crocco attended Berklee College of Music in Boston and graduated Cum Laude in 1997. Since that time he has worked nationally and internationally as a full time performer, composer, and educator. With performances as a sideman and leader at every major jazz club in New York City, Crocco established himself as one the most unique improvisational voices on the scene. He has performed with Kenny Werner, Mike Mainieri, John Lockwood, Dennis Irwin, George Garzone, Greg Tardy, Sam Yahel, Antonio Farao, Frank Tiberi, Bob Gullotti, Francisco Mela, Ben Street, Kenny Brooks, Ross Pederson, Peter Slavov, Pete Zimmer, Jeremy Allen, John Sullivan, Rick Margitza, Essiet Essiet, Eivind Opsvik, Charles Blenzig, Sean Conly, Tony Moreno, and Ian Froman amongst others. Lees meer
Crocco's longtime relationship with master saxophonist and educator George Garzone, has helped him acquire a uniquely individual voice not only as a guitarist but also through his continued mentoring to students at all levels of music development. Crocco is the only musician qualified to fluidically perform, compose, and teach Garzone's original pedagogy called, "The Triadic Chromatic Approach". He has had the privilege of conducting master classes at music institutions and universities across Europe and the United States. In addition to teaching private students in New York City, Crocco is also an adjunct professor within the New School Jazz Department.
His current group is called "FLUID". It includes a rotation of some of the finest musicians working and performing in improvisational music today. "FLUID" has released a number of highly acclaimed CDs & DVDs. Exploring every aspect of truth in music and art, "FLUID" performs with a ferocity and freedom... swing and organic color. Every show is energized with the colors of life.
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EPISODE 87 - James Gibbs III
22 januari 2025 · 26 min
James Gibbs III who currently tours with 8 time Grammy nominated singer/song writer Joe Thomas was born in Newark, and raised in Irvington, New Jersey. He began playing the trumpet at the age of 14 and began his jazz training at The New Brunswick Jazz Institute, under instructor and legendary organist Radam Schwartz. Lees meer
James performed his first professional show on December 12, 1994 for the annual WBGO Jazz membership party and Gala at The Five Spot jazz club in New York City, where he was discovered by the late great jazz singer, arranger, composer, band leader and actress Dr. Betty Carter. She invited James to audition for her annual jazz performance program called “Jazz Ahead”. After he landed the audition, he studied with Betty and performed jazz concerts at. (Brooklyn Academy of Music) and The Kennedy Center with other young amateur/professional musicians from all over the world. That experience inspired James to go forth with his music career as a band leader, composer, producer, arranger and engineer. James performs all over the world as a leader and as a side musician with other bands in many venues and festivals.
James performs many styles of music from: Jazz, Rock, R&B, Gospel, Latin, Reggae, Classical, Brazilian, and many other ethnics styles. James has shared the stage with many greats such as: John Lamb (bassist from Duke Ellington’s Orchestra), Rufus Reid (legendary bassist), Buster Cooper (trombonist from Duke Ellington orchestra) , Mark Whitfield (guitarist), Sean Jones (trumpeter formerly from The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra), John Lee (bassist formerly from Dizzy Gillespie’s All-Star Band), Kenny Drew Jr (pianist), Terrence Blanchard (trumpeter/grammy winning composer in Spike Lee films), Joe Thomas (8 time grammy nominated singer/song writer), Jerry Stiller (Broadway actor, singer and television star), Eric Roberson (grammy nominated singer/song writer), Smokin’ Joe Frazier (former heavy weight champion), Roy Hargrove (trumpeter), Wynton Marsal…
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EPISODE 86 - Jonathan Saraga
22 januari 2025 · 25 min
Jonathan Saraga is a New York City based, internationally acclaimed trumpeter, flugelhornist, composer, arranger, educator, band-leader and Doctor of Musical Arts. He holds 3 degrees in jazz studies/trumpet performance, has earned over 30 musical accolades from 30 different organizations, and has garnered 25+ years experience performing, recording, competing and teaching on a global scale. Jonathan appears on 30+ studio albums, in 250+ YouTube videos, and has performed extensively throughout Europe, Asia, Central America, the Caribbean, Canada and the U.S., including via multiple national tours. Lees meer
Saraga has worked as a trumpeter and flugelhornist for many highly acclaimed and/or Grammy nominated/winning artists such as Maria Schneider, Darcy James Argue, Orrin Evans, Arturo O'Farrill, Tyshawn Sorey, Jimmy Greene, Steve Coleman, Henry Cole, Remy Le Boeuf, Valery Ponomarev, Steven Feifke, Migiwa Miyajima, Manuel Valera, Samuel Torres, Jihye Lee, Erica Seguine, the Revive Big, the Birdland Big Band, the Mingus Big Band, the Terraza Big Band, and Brass Against. He has performed at premier NYC venues such as Carnegie Hall, Symphony Space, the Jazz Standard, Birdland Jazz Club, the Jazz Gallery, the Barclay's Center, Smoke Jazz Club, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Le Poisson Rouge, the Iridium, Joe's Pub, Fotografiska, Roulette, Smalls Jazz Club as well as Rockefeller Center to name only a few.
Jonathan's work has been recognized and/or awarded by notable organizations such as the International Trumpet Guild, the ASCAP Foundation, Broadcast Music Incorporated, Chamber Music America, the Association for Popular Music Education, the International Society for Improvised Music, United States Artists, the Millay Colony, the International Society of Jazz Arrangers and Composers, the Louis Armstrong Foundation, the Banff Center, the International Songwriting Competition, the Jazz Foundation of America, the United States Navy as well as the United States Air Force and has engaged with…
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EPISODE 85 - Billy Carrión
20 januari 2025 · 26 min
Billy Carrión is a multidimensional bassist that has gathered musical skills from alternate realities, to become one of the hardest grooving musicians on the scene today. Billy’s mission is simple: evolve every piece of music in any genre to its highest, purest, most beautiful form, while preserving music the masters have left everyone throughout space and time. Billy has had quite the musical journey- a requirement to understanding as many aspects of music as possible. Lees meer
On various instruments pre pandemic, Billy was able to work with some of the most influential musicians and producers in music, including Eddie Palmieri, Ray Barretto, Tim Gilles, Henry Cole, Giovanni Hidalgo, Suit Of Lights, Alfredo Rodriguez, Papo Vazquez, Ray Santos, and many more- a 20+ year journey so far. Billy’s influences are quite wide, including jazz, Latin music, rock… but the majority come from the depth of 8 and 16 bit video games. “Music I listened to 30+ years ago that I can still hum today,” is how he explains it. “I love music from the 70’s- especially anything with a clavé, and electronic jazz, which was called fusion back then, anything from the ECM record label, etc.. and you can hear those influences in the game music I was exposed to in my youth in the 80’s and 90’s.
Billy is currently performing with the electric jazz group known as U.L.T.R.A. S - Universe Less Traveled Reveals Authentic Self. The band has been lighting up the NY/NJ music scene for the last few years, and has original music slated to be released in May 2024 on all streaming platforms. Billy also has a brand new acoustic jazz quartet featuring Pete Rodriguez on Trumpet, Campbell Charshee on Piano, and Jarrett Walser on drums. For his 40th b-day, Billy recorded 4 of his favorite covers (with Jonathan Peretz on drums) that will be released at the end of 2024. As a leader, Billy has performed at places and events such as the Bergen County Music Festival, Chris’s Jazz Cafe, Trumpets Jazz Club, The Beanrunner Cafe…
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EPISODE 84 - Charles Ruggiero
20 januari 2025 · 34 min
Charles Ruggiero was born to be a drummer. The son of world renowned jazz musician Vinnie Ruggiero, Charles spent his early years surrounded by the "who's who" of jazz. There was always music around, and with musicians like Art Blakey, Philly Joe Jones, Freddie Hubbard, and Jon Hendricks coming to spend time and play, it was only a matter of time before he caught the bug and asked his father to play the "bang-bangs." Lees meer
As a teenager, Charles got serious about drumming, playing anywhere he could. Soon, local high schools and colleges, as well as professional theatre groups, and popular local bands throughout western N.Y. started to hire him. After winning a seat in the New York State All State Jazz Ensemble, music colleges came calling. Manhattan School of Music offered a full scholarship and a chance to study with famed jazz educator Justin DiCioccio, so he jumped at the chance. The jazz scene in New York City in the early 90's was vibrant and he was plying regularly with his own "who's who" of jazz, including Joshua Redman, Peter Bernstein, Jane Monheit, Ryan Kisor, Joel Frahm, Sam Yahel, Brad Mehldau, Myron Walden, Chris Potter, and Dwayne Burno, to name a few.
In 1994, Charles joined Chuck Mangione's group, touring with the jazz superstar for the next 4 years. The first months of his time with Mangione provided him with the chance of a lifetime - learning the ropes, playing alongside the legendary drummer Steve Gadd. "He taught me so much, and he never uttered one word about music." says Ruggiero.
In late 2000, former MTV/VH1 vee-jay, Abby Gennet, asked Ruggiero to play on a demo of a few of her songs, and the rock-n-roll band SLUNT was born. The band's rise was quick. In only their second year they were on tour with Marilyn Manson. The following years found them on tour with Motorhead, Drowning Pool, and Paul Stanley (KISS) as well as releasing two albums on Repossession Records. After SLUNT Charles found himself on Ozzy Ozbourne's Ozzfest tour, replacing drum…
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EPISODE 83 - Clifton Anderson
20 januari 2025 · 34 min
Clifton Anderson is considered one of the leading trombonists and composers performing in Jazz today. He is not only noted for his rich personal sound on the horn but for his abilities as a melodic composer and musical interpreter. Lees meer
Clifton was born in Harlem, New York City into a musical family and from an early age showed an affinity for music. When he turned seven years old he received his first trombone from his uncle, Jazz Legend Sonny Rollins. Clifton attended the prestigious Fiorello LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and is a graduate of The Manhattan School Of Music. During his college years Clifton played in bands led by Frank Foster, Carlos Garnett and Reggie Workman. He was one of the original members of Slide Hampton’s revered trombone ensemble “The World of Trombones”and quickly established himself as one of the young in demand trombonists on the New York City music scene.
Clifton’s extensive musical career has created the foundation to inform him as a gifted bandleader. His performances embody the fertile and varied history of musical experiences he’s been a part of, working with a who’s who of music and entertainment giants including; Sonny Rollins, McCoy Tyner, Dizzy Gillespie, Lester Bowie, Dee Dee Bridgewater and Barry Harris to Stevie Wonder, Keith Richards, Paul Simon, Wallace Roney, The Mighty Sparrow, Geri Allen, T.S. Monk and Terumasa Hino among others. His identifiable sound and memorable compositions have drawn a consistently expanding audience to his recordings and performances.
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EPISODE 82 - Peter Brainin
16 januari 2025 · 27 min
A native of the Bronx, saxophonist, flutist, drummer, and composer Peter Brainin is a Grammy and Latin Grammy winning artist (he is also featured on 7 other Grammy nominated recordings) who has performed at major concert venues and jazz festivals all over Europe, Russia, Japan, India, North, South and Central America and the Caribbean. Some of the the bands and artists he has toured with internationally include pianist Hilton Ruiz (1989-99), Chico O’farrill Afro Cuban Jazz Orchestra (with whom he recorded 2 Grammy nominated albums, the Latin Grammy winning “Final Night at Birdland” and appeared in the films “Calle 54” and “Thomas Crown Affair”), Mongo Santamaria, Valery Ponomorev, Willie Colon and Legal Alien (1992-2002), Bebo Valdez, Matt “Guitar” Murphy, Samuel Torres, Mambo Legends Orchestra, John DiMartino & Quartet of the Americas, Arturo Ofarrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra (with whom he is featured on the Grammy winning CD’s “Cuba: The Conversation Continues” and “Offense of the Drum”) and with his own quartet. Other artists he has performed and/or recorded with include Randy Weston, Benny Golson, Wynton Marsalis, Jeff Watts, Ray Barretto, Jerry Gonzalez, Harold Mabern, Paquito D’Rivera, Jaco Pastorious, Lionel Loueke, Joey Calderazzo, Ruben Blades, Eddie Henderson and Eddie Palmieri. He was twice awarded the BRIO Award (Bronx Recognizes Its Own) for music composition. Some of his compositions and arrangements can be heard on his original CD recordings with co-leader, drummer Steve Johns and with the quartet Native Soul. Lees meer
As an educator, Peter has led ensembles at New York University, New England Conservatory, the New School, and has done residencies performing, teaching privately and giving master classes in Jazz and Afro-Cuban Jazz at University of California at Long Beach and University of Maine in Orono. Peter has also worked extensively for Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Jazz in the Schools Program as a clinician with Arturo O’Farrill in schools in all 5 …
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EPISODE 81 - Steve Picataggio
16 januari 2025 · 28 min
Steve Picataggio is a professional drummer and educator in New York City from Coral Springs, Florida. From the age of ten, Steve immersed himself in classical percussion, marching drumlines, pit orchestras and big band jazz ensembles. Lees meer
He then made the commitment to study with world-renown jazz drummer Danny Gottlieb at the University of North Florida. There he had the opportunity to learn the extensive hand techniques originated by Joe Morello. He focused on the history of jazz drummers, most notably Mel Lewis and his influence on big band drumming. As well as the drummers of Count Basie and gravitated towards small group drummers such as Shelly Manne, Philly Joe Jones, Jimmy Cobb, Ben Riley and Ed Thigpen.
During his time in Jacksonville, Steve met Ulysses Owens Jr. a native Floridian and NYC based jazz drummer. For five years Owens mentored Steve on drums and the music industry. Under Ulysses’ guidance, Steve expanded his musical knowledge and mindset and was given the tools required to be a successful musician in New York.
This mentorship jump started Steve’s journey to New York City in 2011, where he studied with Billy Drummond at New York University Steinhardt School of Music while pursuing his Master’s Degree in Jazz Performance.
After graduating from NYU in 2013, Steve Picataggio began a professional career as a bandleader and sideman. He has performed at The Blue Note Jazz Club, Birdland, The Kitano, The Bar Next Door and Feinstein’s 54 Below.
His debut record Two Feet on the Ground features original compositions and arrangements and is available on iTunes and CD Baby.
He performs regularly in New York with jazz and Broadway singers, straight ahead jazz small groups, big bands, cabaret, and musical theatre shows. Steve has also toured the US performing with the jazz group The Hot Sardines.
In 2018, Steve began playing drums for Suzi Shelton, an award winning children’s music singer/songwriter. Performances include Outreach morning concerts for the Br…
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EPISODE 80 - Itay Morchi
16 januari 2025 · 31 min
Originally from Israel, Itay started playing the drums at the age of six Itay and was honored to study under the direction of the the finest musician and teachers in Israel. Lees meer
Since November 2016 Itay has been the working drummer in piano legend's Johnny O'neal trio. Since then, he performed with him in prestigious venues and festivals around the world, to name a few: Detroit Jazz Festival, Nice Jazz Festival, Red Sea Jazz Festival, Rostov International Jazz festival, Blue Note Milano, Dizzy's Club Coca Cola, ESSE Jazz Club moscow, as well as weekly residencies in NYC own Smalls Jazz club, Mezzrow Jazz Club, Smoke Jazz Club, Ginny's Supper Club and more.
In October of 2017, Itay was honored to be on Johnny O'neal's new record - "In The Moment" Featuring - ROY HARGROVE and GRANT STEWART.
By 17 years old, Itay has already toured the world and shared the stage with the finest Jazz musicians in Israel, and international well known musicians.
A graduate of the Thelma Yellin School of Arts, a student of BFA Jazz Studies (The Center for Jazz Studies at the Israel Conservatory of Music, Tel Aviv in collaboration with The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, NY), Itay's passionate dedication and skillful sensitivity on the drums has become widely known in Israel and made him a wanted drummer in many Jazz ensembles and stages.
By the age of 15 Itay was honored to receive a few scholarships and awards for his playing (Berklee College of Music, The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, NY, Stanford Jazz Workshop, Europafest), and play in international jazz festivals.
Since 2013 Itay has been making his way into the New York Jazz scene, and got to work and perform with many great musicians such as – Johnny O'neal, Roy Hargove, Ravi Coltrane, Tivon Penicott, Tuomo Uusitalo, Mulgrew Miller, Eli Degibri, Doug Weiss, Gadi Lehavi, Cyrille Aimee, Daniel Zamir, Omer Avital, Ofer Ganor, Avishai Cohen, Joel Frahm, David Berkman, Dayna Stephens, Gilad Hekselman, Lew Taba…
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EPISODE 79 - Satish Robertston
15 januari 2025 · 22 min
Satish Robertson is a multifaceted trumpeter and composer whose soulful sound resonates across a spectrum of musical genres, from jazz and gospel to hip-hop, R&B, funk, and blues. His compositions often showcase a cinematic depth, reflecting his broad artistic vision. Lees meer
A Jersey City native, Satish’s musical journey began with the piano, but he was ultimately captivated by the trumpet, inspired by the legendary Miles Davis. His talent was honed under the guidance of renowned trumpeters such as Rob Henke, Jeremy Pelt, Dr. Eddie Henderson, and the late Ted Curson, leading him to develop a distinct and bold voice on his instrument.
Throughout his career, Satish has collaborated with an impressive roster of artists, including jazz greats like James Carter, the Spirit of Life Ensemble, Kahlil Kwame Bell, and Deborah Davis. His versatility also extends to the hip-hop realm, where he has worked with artists like Ace Clark and Skyzoo, as well as R&B icon Meli’sa Morgan. Beyond his collaborations, Satish has led numerous dynamic jazz groups of his own.
In 2020, Satish pushed his creative boundaries with the release of 80’s JOINT, a groundbreaking album that blends virtuosic jazz trumpet with the vibrant sounds of 80's pop, rock, funk, and new wave. The album is a testament to his creativity, with Satish not only composing, arranging, and producing the entire record but also performing nearly all of the parts himself.
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EPISODE 78 - Eric Dupont
15 januari 2025 · 24 min
Eric Dupont was born and raised in New Hampshire, receiving his first drum set at the age of 12. Beginning to seriously hone his craft in high school, he earned titles as the NHMEA Jazz All-State drummer and recipient of the Woody Herman Jazz Award. His work as his school’s Drumline captain, jazz band drummer, and wind symphonic band percussionist led him to performances as far as New York, Florida, Canada, Germany, and Austria. Lees meer
Eric initially studied European classical percussion with Jeff Fischer at the University of Massachusetts in 2012, while studying drum set privately with Boston legend Fred Buda. In 2013, Eric transferred to the jazz program at William Paterson University on music scholarship – he graduated magna cum laude in 2016 as the Outstanding Musician Award recipient, with a major in Jazz Studies and Music Management. With the school’s close proximity to New York City, Eric has been fortunate enough to study under the tutelage of such drum heavyweights as Billy Hart, Winard Harper, Horacee Arnold and Bill Goodwin.
Eric draws inspiration from his drum heroes, which include Max Roach, Jimmy Cobb, Louis Hayes, Philly Joe Jones, and Art Blakey. He has received scholarships and grants from the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) and the Music Business Association. Eric was also selected as one of 15 fellows of the 2018 Program for Jazz at Ravinia's Steans Music Institute in Highland Park, IL.
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EPISODE 77 - Dr. Shawn Purcell
15 januari 2025 · 28 min
Dr. Shawn Purcell, originally from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a jazz guitarist, educator, arranger, and composer in the Washington DC region. Purcell has shared the stage, recorded with, and/or toured with Pat Bianchi, Terell Stafford, Nicholas Payton, Tim Warfield, Sean Jones, Brian Charette, Regina Carter, The Chicago Jazz Ensemble, The Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra, Jim Pugh, Chip McNeill, Eddie Daniels, Chris Potter, Steve Allee, Jason Tiemann, National Symphony Orchestra and many others. He has performed at jazz clubs and festivals nationally and internationally including: Blues Alley, Smalls, The Jazz Kitchen, The Blue Wisp, The Jazz Factory, Club Bonafide, JazzB (Sao Paulo), DC Jazz Fest, JEN, PASIC, IAJE, Savannah Jazz Festival and Indy Jazz Fest. Lees meer
Purcell can be heard on nearly 40 recordings including Chip McNeill’s The Whirl, Steve Fidyk’s Heads Up! and Allied Forces, Alan Baylock Jazz Orchestra’s Prime Time, featuring Doc Severinsen, Darden Purcell’s Easy Living and Where the Blue Begins, The Capitol Bones’ The Beat Goes On, Ben Patterson’s Push the Limits, and Ben Patterson Jazz Orchestra’s Vital Frequencies featuring Chris Potter. Symmetricity, Purcell’s first recording as a leader, was released in 2019 on Armored Records. As a leader and sideman, stay tuned for new releases from The String Queens, The Capitol Bones, Mike Tomaro Big Band, The Ben Patterson Group, The Way of the Groove, (Origin Records) and Shawn Purcell 180, Purcell’s 2nd release as a leader and debut release on Origin Records.
Purcell has spent over 18 years as a member of the military big bands in Washington DC. From 1996-2004, Purcell was the guitarist in the US Air Force jazz ensemble, The Airmen of Note. During his time with “The Note,” Purcell performed throughout the world including England, Germany, Turkey, Luxembourg, The Azores, Belgium, Oman, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Italy, Kuwait, and Bahrain. He is currently the guitarist with the Washington DC based US Navy Band “Com…
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EPISODE 76 - Colin Stranahan
14 januari 2025 · 22 min
Born In Denver Colorado, Colin Stranahan has always been surrounded by music. By his teenage years he was already actively working on the local Denver scene, and has recorded multiple records on the Capri Record label. After receiving the prestigious National Foundation Advancement of the Arts Presidential Scholar award in 2005, he studied at the University of the Pacific for one year as a Brubeck Institute Fellow. Shortly thereafter, he attended the prestigious Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz at Loyola University in New Orleans, Louisiana. Lees meer
Stranahan was also one of the winners of the 2012 Thelonious Monk Drum Competition. Now living in Brooklyn, New York, Colin is among the most sought-after drummers in the world working with such artist as Kurt Rosenwinkel, Jonathan Kreisberg, Dr. Lonnie Smith,Fred Hersch, Terence Blanchard, Dave Kikoski, Kevin Hays, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter and many others. He is part of a collective trio featuring some of the most talented and praised young musicians in New York City. Together, the Stranahan/Zaleski/Rosato trio has recorded and released two successful albums and are releasing a third that was recorded live at Smalls, scheduled to be released in 2015.
Colin Stranahan currently holds adjunct teaching positions at Aarhus Royal Academy of Music, and London’s Royal Academy of Music, where he teaches both private lessons, and ensemble teaching.
He also teaches at a few summer Jazz programs including The Brubeck Institute Summer Jazz Colony, The Fara Sabina Summer Jazz School and Festival in Fara Sabina, Italy. Colin also gives drum master classes at Oberlin College, New England Conservatory, International Jazz Conference in Thailand, and the Singapore Esplanade Jazz Festival.
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EPISODE 75 - Brian Charette
14 januari 2025 · 26 min
New York City organist/pianist, Brian Charette, has established himself as a leading voice in modern jazz. Charette is a Hammond U.S.A, Hammond Europe, I.K Multimedia, and Casio endorsed, Cellar Live recording artist. Brian is currently #2 on the 2024 Downbeat Critic’s Poll for organ and #6 for keyboards. Brian was also the winner of the 2014 Downbeat Critics’ Poll “Rising Star: Organ” award and 2015 Hot House Magazine's “Fan's Decision Jazz Award for Best Organist”. Charette’s new Cellar Live release, Jackpot, was recorded at Rudy Van Gelder’s hallowed studio featuring Bill Stewart on drums. The album received 4 stars from Downbeat and was on the Jazzweek radio chart for months, peaking at #9 for 6 weeks. Charette is also a prolific composer of large ensemble music, penning and performing compositions with The Jazz Dock Orchestra in Prague and The Modern Art Orchestra in Budapest.
Born in Meriden, Connecticut in 1972, Brian was introduced to music by his mother, Catherine. By the age of 17, he was playing with jazz luminaries such as Lou Donaldson and Houston Person. Since graduating on the Dean's List from UConn in 1994 with a BA in Music, Charette has been performing extensively in Europe and the USA with his home base being the East Village, NYC. Brian is a staple of the downtown NYC scene working with virtually everyone who plays with an organist.
Brian has performed with many notable artists such as Joni Mitchell, Chaka Khan, Paul Simon, Cyndi Lauper, Oz Noy, Vinnie Colaiuta, John Patitucci, and many more. Charette is also an active author and educator, writing for Keyboard Magazine, The New York City Jazz Record, DownBeat, Electronic Musician and the Czech magazine, Muzikus. Brian teaches masterclasses all over the world and is on the faculty of the Czech Summer Jazz Workshop at Jesek Conservatory in Prague. In NYC, he teaches lessons and group classes at The New School and 92nd Y School of Music. His first book, 101 Hammond B3 Tips, released through publish… Lees meer -
EPISODE 74 - Ralph Lalama
13 januari 2025 · 31 min
A solid fixture of the New York jazz scene and respected world-wide, Ralph Lalama embodies the best of the jazz sound ideal – great time, great swing, expressed through great melodic ideas. Everything he says and plays comes out of his deep connection and appreciation for “the Beat.” Jazz critic Zan Stewart put it succinctly: “Lalama is a grand, modern-minded storyteller…a first-class jazz soloist.” He excels in a chord-less trio format with his amazing command of the harmonic progressions articulated through his horn. But on top of being a great jazz soloist, Lalama is equally a solid veteran of jazz ensembles and orchestras. Over his impressive career starting with Woody Herman, Buddy Rich, and the Mel Lewis Orchestra – now the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra – he has honed the craft of sonic blending. Lees meer
Lalama is a three-time Grammy winner through his work in the Joe Lovano Nonet and the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. He has nine CDs out as a leader and is on more than sixty recordings as a sideman. He has received praise from the likes of critics Gary Giddins, Stanley Crouch, Ben Ratliff, Ira Gitler and Stuart Troup, among others. His latest release as a leader is the 2012 “Bop Juice: Ralph Lalama Trio, Live at Smalls.”
Ralph Lalama’s playing reveals an enormous depth of musical heart and knowledge. With his muscular, free-wheeling sound and masterful ability to tell a story through his horn, one understands why he so thoroughly connects with musicians, students and listeners alike.
Equipment: Selmer Mark VI Tenor Saxophone; Buffet Crampon Clarinet; Altus Flute.