NYU Jazz Interview Series: Lenny Pickett
I have never met anyone like or vaguely resembling this guy. He is a whole other ball of wax, or should I say ball of energy? Working with him on my faculty as well as within my group Combo Nuvo, Lenny approaches everything through a skewed angle. From his unique approach to playing the saxophone as well as five hundred other instruments, he also possesses humbleness with regard to his craft until he puts his lips to his horn and quickly takes no prisoners on the bandstand.
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Q&A: Branford Marsalis
Celebrated and versatile saxophonist and jazz personality Branford Marsalis always delivers an impact filled musical statement. Whether he is performing solo or leading his stellar quartet, playing with Sting or doing a hip-hop thing, Branford is on a very short list of artists who can authentically adapt his musical voice and bring a jazz sensibility to any context. Read more
Miles Davis Podcast: Fly
One of the most amazing improvisational trios in jazz today is Fly featuring saxophonist Mark Turner, bassist Larry Grenadier and drummer Jeff Ballard. The trio has been together since 2004 and their music is based on collective improvisation, creative compositions and virtuosic jazz playing. Read more
NYU Jazz Interview Series: Jack DeJohnette
All I can say about having the opportunity to interview Mr. DeJohnette is “WOW, what a tremendous honor.” Truly one of my favorite musicians on the planet, and “I” get to interview him. As I began listing the musicians that he has worked with, Coltrane, Rollins, Evans, Jarrett, Miles, Monk, Freddie, Herbie, and on and on, I thought to myself, how can this be true? Read more
