Podcasts about jazz institute

Roy McGrath is a Chicago based tenor saxophonist and multi-woodwind instrumentalist, composer and bandleader. Born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico and educated in Boston, New Orleans and Chicago, Roy brings to bear these diverse influences in his playing and composing. In addition to leading and recording his own ensembles, he is a member of several others as an in-demand player, recording artist, and producer. He has led four international tours to Mexico, Singapore, Myanmar, South Korea and China. As a composer and arranger, Roy is firmly in the jazz tradition, but his Caribbean heritage is an ever-present mind set, leading to wholly original works that are a true expression of who he is.  Menjunje features folkloric rhythms of Puerto Rico such as Bomba (Sica, Yuba, Cuembe), Plena, Seis Araucano, as well as Cuban Guaguanco, Bolero, Chachacha, and Son. For this particular project he flew in musicians from Puerto Rico: Drummer Efrain Martinez (Viento de Agua, Cultura Profetica, La PVC, and many more) and Eduardo Zayas (Charlie Sepulveda,  Mahya Veray, Bobby Valentin). As well as musicians from the Chicago area, Constantine Alexander on trumpet, Kitt Lyles on Bass, Javier Quintana-Ocasio and Victor “Junito” Gonzalez on Percussion, and Jose Carrasquillo on Cuatro. This project is a product of working in conjunction with the Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center, the Puerto Rico Arts Alliance, the Walder Foundation, and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events of Chicago.  In 2022 Menjunje played festivals around Chicago and surrounding areas: Chicago Jazz Festival, Chicago Latin Jazz Festival, Glenwood Arts Festival, CU Jazz Festival, Mayfest, Mole de Mayo Festival. Also in 2022 Roy plays on supporting the release of Giovany Revelle's self-titled album, which Roy co-produced, wrote horn arrangements, string arrangements, and coached the rhythm section. In 2017 Roy released his Latin Grammy nominated prior album, “Remembranzas”, a new batch of original compositions that incorporate folkloric Bomba rhythms and other Puerto Rican elements in a jazz framework. Originally, in 2015 the project was called the Julia al Son de Jazz project and was commissioned by Chicago's Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center, where he worked as director of the youth Afro-Caribbean Jazz Ensemble for five years. The project used the writings of revered Puerto Rican poet Julia de Burgos as a springboard for new compositions that included spoken word recitations of her poetry. Its debut was followed by successive performances throughout Chicago including three dates for the Chicago Park District's Night Out in the Parks summer concert series in 2016.  In 2017 Roy also led two special big band tribute projects: one honoring legendary Puerto Rican composer Rafael Hernández, with his son, Chali Hernandez singing, and a local All-Stars tribute to Dizzy Gillespie's United Nations Orchestra that played the Chicago Latin Jazz Fest. Roy sang in school choirs before picking up the saxophone at age 16. After attending the Berklee College of Music Summer Workshop, he earned a full scholarship to attend Berklee's five-week Summer Performance Program. Back in Puerto Rico, he honed his improvisational skills performing with jazz pianist and Beach Boys alumnus Carli Muñoz. Upon high school graduation, Roy was awarded a scholarship to Loyola University in New Orleans, where he studied under Tony Dagradi (saxophonist for Astral Project) and composer/arranger John Mahoney. He graduated in 2009 with BM in Jazz Performance. After graduation, Roy extended his time in New Orleans, performing in clubs, concert halls and the streets with a variety of musicians. He made three appearances at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and one appearance at the New Orleans French Quarter Fest. The next stop on his musical journey was Northwestern University in Chicago, where he graduated with a master's degree in Music, studying under Victor Goines, saxophonist for Jazz at Lincoln Center and Director of Jazz Studies at Northwestern University. Graduating in 2014, McGrath decided to put down roots in Chicago because of both its historic role in the development of jazz and the presence of a large and vibrant Jazz & Latin music community in which he could continue to pursue his vision. He returned to Northwestern's Pick-Staiger Concert Hall in 2016 to perform with Victor Goines and Branford Marsalis in Goines' orchestral composition the “Crescent City Suite”. Roy released his debut CD as a leader, Martha, in 2014 with a quartet formed of fellow Northwestern grads Gustavo Cortiñas, Kitt Lyles and Joaquin Garcia, all bandleaders in their own right, and returned the favor by joining their ensembles: Snapshot (Cortiñas), Real Talk Collective (Lyles) and Rhythm Convergence (Garcia). The Roy McGrath Quartet was featured in the Jazz Institute of Chicago's NextGEN concert series in 2015. Later that year, the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) awarded McGrath a grant to take the quartet on a month-long tour of Mexico. Also in 2015, The Roy McGrath Latin Jazz Quintet performed at the Chicago Latin Jazz Festival. 2016 also saw McGrath joining alto saxophonist Miguel Zenón and traditional music ensemble Bomba con Buya for Folclórico: An Exploration of Jazz and Afro-Puerto Rican Music at the Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center. As an educator Roy has taught masterclasses on improvisation at Dulwich College International in Shanghai, Suzhou, and Beijing, on four different touring occasions. Roy has taught in his home of Puerto Rico at the Universidad del Turabo and in Mexico City as well.

Today, the Spotlight shines On bassist and vocalist Katie Ernst. In addition to many other things, Katie is one half of the duo Wayfaring with last week's guest James Falzone.Katie is also co-leader of the Chicago-based jazz trio Twin Talk, and the indie rock band Edith Judith, and has garnered much acclaim for her Dorothy Parker poetry song cycle Little Words, which premiered at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.Katie is a working musician, performing as part of many jazz and improvised music ensembles in the Chicago area. She is also a committed educator, working with young musicians in her work as a teaching artist for the Jazz Institute of Chicago's Jazz Masters Residency Program in Chicago Public Schools, and by serving on the faculty at Birch Creek Music Academy summer program.I was very fortunate to see Katie perform as part of Wayfaring earlier this year and even more fortunate to have this conversation. Enjoy.(The musical excerpts heard in the interview are from Twin Talk's 2019 album Weaver and Wayfaring's recent Intermezzo)–Dig DeeperVisit Katie Ernst at katieernst.comListen to music from Katie Ernst's projects: Wayfaring, Twin Talk, and Edith JudithFollow Katie Ernst on Instagram, Facebook, and BandcampTwin Talk (website)Edith Judith – Bones And StructureKatie Ernst joins Iron & Wine on tourBe sure to peruse this episode's extensive show notes at spotlightonpodcast.com–• Did you enjoy this episode? Please share it with a friend! You can also rate Spotlight On ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. • Subscribe! Be the first to check out each new episode of Spotlight On in your podcast app of choice. • Looking for more? Visit spotlightonpodcast.com for bonus content, web-only interviews + features, and the Spotlight On email newsletter. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Mastodon. • Check out Spotlight On's next live event at The Royal Room in Seattle on Saturday, June 22! More info here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today, the Spotlight shines On bassist and vocalist Katie Ernst. In addition to many other things, Katie is one half of the duo Wayfaring with last week's guest James Falzone.Katie is also co-leader of the Chicago-based jazz trio Twin Talk, and the indie rock band Edith Judith, and has garnered much acclaim for her Dorothy Parker poetry song cycle Little Words, which premiered at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC.Katie is a working musician, performing as part of many jazz and improvised music ensembles in the Chicago area. She is also a committed educator, working with young musicians in her work as a teaching artist for the Jazz Institute of Chicago's Jazz Masters Residency Program in Chicago Public Schools, and by serving on the faculty at Birch Creek Music Academy summer program.I was very fortunate to see Katie perform as part of Wayfaring earlier this year and even more fortunate to have this conversation. Enjoy.(The musical excerpts heard in the interview are from Twin Talk's 2019 album Weaver and Wayfaring's recent Intermezzo)–Dig DeeperVisit Katie Ernst at katieernst.comListen to music from Katie Ernst's projects: Wayfaring, Twin Talk, and Edith JudithFollow Katie Ernst on Instagram, Facebook, and BandcampTwin Talk (website)Edith Judith – Bones And StructureKatie Ernst joins Iron & Wine on tourBe sure to peruse this episode's extensive show notes at spotlightonpodcast.com–• Did you enjoy this episode? Please share it with a friend! You can also rate Spotlight On ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. • Subscribe! Be the first to check out each new episode of Spotlight On in your podcast app of choice. • Looking for more? Visit spotlightonpodcast.com for bonus content, web-only interviews + features, and the Spotlight On email newsletter. You can also follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Mastodon. • Check out Spotlight On's next live event at The Royal Room in Seattle on Saturday, June 22! More info here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shai Jaschek is an Israeli-born guitarist, composer, and music educator in New York City. After first picking up the guitar at 10 years old, Shai has since dedicated his life to music, playing and performing constantly. Before establishing himself in NYC, Shai completed his Bachelor's in Arts from Israel's top jazz performance programs, such as “The Jazz Institute” at the “Rimon School of Music”, and the “Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance”. During this time, Shai sought the opportunity to seek mentorship from world-renowned musicians, such as trumpeter Avishai Cohen, saxophonist Eli Degibri, and composer Yoni Rechter. As their mentee, Shai developed his unique voice as a composer and improviser. During his Bachelor's, he played in different musical groups, such as The Haifa Big Band, and The Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra, and became an in-demand guitarist in the Israeli music scene. These experiences led Shai to start his band, play his original compositions, and perform in clubs and festivals both in Israel and abroad. Driven by his passion for jazz music, Shai relocated from Israel to NYC to pursue his music graduate studies and to be a part of the local jazz scene in the city. In 2021, Shai was granted a Master's in music from Queens College, an institution with internationally acclaimed musicians, such as Antonio Hart, Mike Moreno, David Berkman, and Michael Mossman. After setting foot in NYC, Shai has been performing as a sideman in different bands and as a leader. His debut album, First Fall, was released in October 2023 and features his original compositions. If you enjoyed this episode please make sure to subscribe, follow, rate, and/or review this podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, ect. Connect with us on all social media platforms and at www.improvexchange.com

The Maroon's Jake Zucker, William Kimani, and Gregory Caesar interview pianist, composer, and Hyde Park native Bethany Pickens, who performed live at the 2023 Hyde Park Jazz Festival with the Bethany Pickens Trio. Bethany's bio: "Bethany Pickens is an award-winning pianist, composer, and educator. Born in Chicago, she began her musical training under the watchful tutelage of her father, world-class jazz pianist Willie Pickens. "As an educator, Pickens has worked with the Ravinia Jazz Scholars Program and the Jazz Institute of Chicago's Jazz Links Program, and is in her 25th year working for the Chicago Public Schools, currently teaching piano at her alma mater, Kenwood Academy. She also sits on the Board of the Jazz institute of Chicago and the Hyde Park Neighborhood Club." (hydeparkjazzfestival.org) This interview was recorded at the Study at University of Chicago on Saturday, September 23, 2023. Photo courtesy of Jason Marck (WBEZ)

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek sits down with author Aaron Cohen to talk about his experience co-writing jazz legend Ramsey Lewis' memoir. The Dueling Critics, Kerry Reid and Jonathan Abarbanel, join Gary to talk about Goodman Theater's new production of ANTONIO'S SONG/I WAS DREAMING OF A SON. And later in the show, Gary checks in with the executive director of the Jazz Institute of Chicago to hear how life after the pandemic is coming along and learn more about a prestigious award that's being given to WDCB's own Al Carter Bey. Plus, a segment on something called SoFar Sounds.

The Jazz Institute of Chicago is cultivating the next generation of musicians. The Institute provides opportunities for middle and high school students to learn improvisations on jazz standards alongside experienced musicians. Reset talked with three participating students — Brandon Harper, Zach Bezirgan and Oscar Evely — as well as the Institute's executive director, Heather Ireland Robinson, about the institute's teaching philosophy.

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)

Harris Stowe State University opens Don Wolff Jazz Institute. Carol Daniel talked with Harris Stowe President Dr. Latonia Collins Smith and creator of the institute Bernie Hayes. 

My guest for this episode is Gerard Presencer. Gerard speaks from experience. Gerard has been on the music scene since the ripe old age of 11 years old when he became the youngest trumpeter of England's National Youth Jazz Orchestra. He rapidly became a sought-after session player, head of the jazz department of the prestigious Royal Academy of Music and head of the brass department at the Jazz Institute of Berlin. But Gerard has recently felt the need to shift from stage and studio to a simpler and purer pursuit of his love for music. Check out what Gerard has to say about his early experiences, his early influences, a rhythmic exercise inspired by Woody Shaw, developing a balanced approach to teaching and playing, finding new ways to express yourself, using four bar blocks to construct a solo, soft quiet and low, the magic of Freddie Hubbard, his passion for teaching, changing his career focus, surprising yourself, practicing being creative, opening yourself up, the challenges of teaching extremely talented students, finding your path, the importance of connection, being a good hang, following your passion, and so much more! So pour yourself a big glass, pull up a chair, and let the hang begin! -------------------------------------------------------------- Follow Gerard at: https://www.facebook.com/GerardPresencerMusic When you need a break from Higher, Faster, and Louder check out: https://www.facebook.com/groups/247188660589795 It's time to Go Practice with Bryan Davis @AirflowMusicNYC : https://airflowmusic.com/ Sound like a million bucks without breaking the bank with Barkley Microphones: http://barkleymic.com/ Let Vennture Mouthpieces help you on your search for the perfect mouthpiece. Use the code "TRUMPETGURUS21" to get 10% off your purchase: https://www.vennture.mp/ If you play hard, you need to make sure you show your chops some love with Robinson's Remedies products: bit.ly/ChopLove Let Jose help you master your mental game: bit.ly/MindfulnessSecrets --------------------------------------------------------------------- 00:00:00 Intro 00:03:33 His early experiences 00:05:58 His early influences 00:09:12 A rhythmic exercise inspired by Woody Shaw 00:13:31 A balanced approach to teaching and playing 00:19:29 Finding new ways to express yourself 00:23:31 Using four bar blocks to construct a solo 00:27:23 Soft quiet and low 00:30:03 The magic of Freddie Hubbard 00:32:29 His passion for teaching 00:36:29 Changing his career focus 00:40:45 Surprising yourself 00:42:40 Practicing being creative 00:45:22 Opening yourself up 00:48:13 The challenges of teaching extremely talented students 00:57:10 Finding your path 01:04:36 The importance of connection 01:09:14 Being a good hang 01:11:17 Following your passion 01:14:50 Go Practice 01:23:24 Sound Off 01:27:41 Geared Up 01:33:11 Rapid Fire Round --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thetrumpetgurus/support

In this episode, Elisabeth interviews Mark Davis, the founder and artistic director of Milwaukee Jazz Institute. MJI is a local nonprofit organization which was founded in 2019, which has several adult and youth ensembles, regularly programs Jazz performances with touring and local acts, holds improv sessions, offers classes and workshops, and generally promotes the musical form of Jazz in the greater Milwaukee area. Even though Milwaukee has been known as a Blues music hub, it also has a deep history with Jazz music. Davis ignited his love of Jazz through a mentorship with teacher Dave Hazeltine when he was a teen. After taking lessons with Dave, he was thrust into a live jam session at the Jazz Oasis — a now defunct Jazz club on Holton Ave in Milwaukee. MJI the organization is not only focused on building audiences and musical knowledge, but creating opportunities for Jazz musicians to explore interaction and performance with other players. Davis sees the benefits of this kind of practice, play and cultivation of deep listening – for everyone, not just professional musicians. Davis welcomes and invites the community to explore MJI's performances throughout the community, explore the resources they offer, and support their mission. Milwaukee Jazz Institute David Hazeltine Gerald Cannon History of Jazz in Milwaukee Bar Centro Melvin Rhyne Manty Ellis, Milwaukee's “Godfather of Jazz” Wes Montgomery Paul Silbergleit Elvin Jones Roy Hargrove SAINT Kate Peter Bernstein Larry Goldings Bill Stewart Matt Wilson Brian Lynch

We look at a Children's Wisconsin program called Project Ujima, helping kids and families dealing with violence. Then, explore a new program at Marquette that will have Marquette faculty living alongside first and second year students. Plus, learn about the Milwaukee Jazz Institute and the Farm/Art Dtour in Sauk County.

Alyn Shipton is a writer, publisher, broadcaster, and jazz double bassist. He has broadcast about jazz since 1989, and currently hosts BBC Radio 3's long-running and much-loved programmed Jazz Record Requests. His biographies of Dizzy Gillespie (1999) and singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson (2013) both won Association for Record Sound Collections (ARSC) Awards for Excellence; and Nilsson also gained an American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) Foundation Deems Taylor/Virgil Thompson Award. His New History of Jazz (2001) was the Jazz Journalists' Association (JJA) book of the year' by the Jazz Institute of Chicago. His most recent work, The Art of Jazz: A Visual History (2020), was described as ‘indispensable' by Publishers Weekly. He co-leads the Buck Clayton Legacy Band, and is a research fellow of the Royal Academy of Music in London (where he teaches Jazz History to Emma Rawicz). In this episode, Alyn shares his background, education, and musical journey. If you enjoyed this episode please make sure to subscribe, follow, rate, and/or review this podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, ect. Connect with us on all social media platforms and at www.improvexchange.com

The JuJu Exchange is a jazz-fusion group founded by three childhood friends from Chicago, each bringing their own unique stories and traits to the collective. Nico Segal (trumpeter and producer) is Grammy Awarded musician and producer who is a frequent Chance the Rapper collaborator and trumpet player in Chance's band The Social Experiment. Julian Davis Reid (pianist and producer) is an artist-theologian who also hosts spiritual retreats called Notes of Rest, which interweave texts and music to promote rest, contemplation and creativity. Nova Zaii (drummer and producer) is a sonic designer and the inventor of the patented Nova Portals instrument, a touchless electronic instrument. Whether performing at The Chicago Jazz Fest or The Songbyrd, The JuJu Exchange brings uncut emotion with the intent to move the audience in mind, body, & soul. The band's debut project Exchange reached #1 on the Apple Jazz Albums Chart upon release and their new single Walk Cycle debuted #1 on the All-New Jazz Spotify Playlist. They released their second record, The Eternal Boombox EP, inspired to provide relief as the world grappled with a catastrophic year. Each song corresponds to a stage of grief from the Kübler-Ross “Five Stages of Grief” Cycle. The JuJu Exchange creates experimental and nuanced music that calls us all to wonder and trust. Their music, primarily instrumental, blends acoustic and digital instruments to accompany meaningful conversation around spiritual, mental, and physical experiences amongst their audiences' diverse backgrounds. They hope their music inspires the listener to participate in the kinds of exchange the world desperately needs. The band has been booked for Microsoft Teams Roundtable, Yale University, Northwestern University, Jazz Institute of Chicago, Chicago Ideas Week, and Apple On Michigan. The band's members have worked, performed, and produced with artists including Chance The Rapper, Frank Ocean, Derrick Hodge, Andrew Bird, Tank & The Bangas, Peter CottonTale, Jamila Woods, Grace Weber, Jennifer Hudson, Tiff Joy, VIc Mensa, Prefuse 73, Fulcrum Point New Music Project, and The Chicago Children's Choir. In this episode, Julian Davis Reid shares his background, education, and musical journey. If you enjoyed this episode please make sure to subscribe, follow, rate, and/or review this podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, ect. Connect with us on all social media platforms and at www.improvexchange.com

Welcome to a new edition of the Neon Jazz interview series with Chicago-based Jazz Arranger, Composer, Saxophonist, Drummer, Model & Activist Isaiah Collier .. In the waning days of 2021, we caught up about his life in jazz, the arts and his new 2021 CD with The Chosen Few called Cosmic Transitions .. The CD was inspired by his fascination with the planet Mercury that is a five-part, 56-minute suite of contemplative arrangements and aggressive free jazz .. He grew up on the South Side of Chicago surrounded by music and is an alumnus of the Jazz Institute of Chicago .. Dig his passion and story…Click to listen.Neon Jazz is a radio program airing since 2011. Hosted by Joe Dimino and Engineered by John Christopher in Kansas City, Missouri giving listeners a journey into one of America's finest inventions. Take a listen on KCXL (102.9 FM / 1140 AM) out of Liberty, MO. Listen to KCXL on Tunein Radio at http://tunein.com/radio/Neon-Jazz-With-Joe-Dimino-p381685/. You can now catch Neon Jazz on KOJH 104.7 FM out of the Mutual Musicians Foundation from Noon - 1 p.m. CST Monday-Friday at https://www.kojhfm.org/. Check us out at All About Jazz @ https://kansascity.jazznearyou.com/neon-jazz.php. For all things Neon Jazz, visit http://theneonjazz.blogspot.com/If you like what you hear, please let us know. You can contribute a few bucks to keep Neon Jazz going strong into the future.   https://www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_button_id=ERA4C4TTVKLR4

An Impressionist Painter, An Inspired Madman, A Restless Innovator, A True Legend of Jazz Drums, A Master of Drumming Insanity, and a Genius of the Sticks. These are some of the words that describe Grammy Award-winning drummer Paul Wertico. Hailed in the press as “One of the most versatile and musical drummers in music today,” Paul Wertico was a member of the Pat Metheny Group from 1983 to 2001. During that time, he won seven Grammy Awards (three for Best Jazz Fusion Performance, three for Best Contemporary Jazz Performance, and one for Best Rock Instrumental Performance), won numerous magazine polls, received several gold records, and played drums & percussion on David Bowie's hit recording (with the Pat Metheny Group), “This Is Not America.” He has played with countless artists and has performed in all 50 states and over 60 countries. Paul has also played drums and percussion on hundreds of recordings, including Paul Winter's Grammy-nominated release, Earth: Voices of a Planet, and four vocalist Kurt Elling's Grammy-nominated releases. He also hosted his own weekly radio show, Paul Wertico's Wild World of Jazz, from 2010 to 2012. Paul is also extremely active in the field of education. In addition to teaching drums privately for over 45 years, Paul is an Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts. Before becoming a full-time faculty member at CCPA, he served on the wind & percussion faculty of Northwestern University for 16 years. For over four decades, he's conducted drum masterclasses, clinics, and workshops worldwide and has written educational articles for numerous magazines. He also serves on the Advisory Board and the Pro-Panel of Modern Drummer magazine, the Education Committee of the Jazz Institute of Chicago. In addition, he served five terms on the Board of Governors of The Recording Academy Chicago Chapter. In 2004, Paul was a Chicago Tribune“Chicagoan of the Year.” In 2010, the Cape Breton International Drum Festival honored him with a “Life Time Achievement Award” for his “Major Contribution To The World Of Drumming & Education.” That year, he was also a recipient of the Montréal Drum Fest's “Lifetime Achievement Award.” In addition, as Musical Director for the crowdsourced TV video series Inventing The Future, Paul was nominated for a 2012-2013 Emmy Award in the “Outstanding Achievement In Interactivity” category by The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, Midwest Chapter. He's also the inventor of his signature product, TUBZ, made by Promark, who also makes the “Paul Wertico Signature Drum Stick.” Paul's recordings have all received great critical praise as a solo recording artist, and DownBeatmagazine listed Paul's CD, Impressions of a City, as one of its “Best CDs of 2010.” In addition, his DVD, Paul Wertico's Drum Philosophy, was named “One of the best drum videos of the last 25 years” by Modern Drummer magazine. LA Weekly even wrote, “His recent records, such as the 2000s Don't Be Scared Anymore and the new StereoNucleosis, are stunning examples of the electronic, rhythmic and intellectual directions jazz could be going." Some of his latest releases include a DVD & CD by David Cain & Paul Wertico entitled Feast For The Senses; a CD by Paul Wertico & Frank Catalano entitled Topics of Conversation; a CD by Fabrizio Mocata, Gianmarco Scaglia & Paul Wertico entitled Free The Opera!; a DVD & CD by Wertico Cain & Gray entitled Sound Portraits (which won “Best Live Performance Album” in the 13th Annual Independent Music Awards (2014); Wertico Cain & Gray's second CD entitled Out In SPACE; Wertico Cain & Gray's second DVD & third CD entitled Organic Architecture;Wertico Cain & Gray'sfourth CD & downloadable video release entitled Realization (which was nominated for “Best Live Performance Album” and “Best Long Form Video” in the 15th Annual Independent Music Awards (2016); Wertico Cain & Gray'sfifth CD entitled Short Cuts - 40 Improvisations; Wertico Cain & Gray'ssixth CD entitled AfterLive; Wertico Cain & Gray'sseventh CD & downloadable video release entitled Without Compromise; a CD entitled Dynamics in Meditationby the Gianmarco Scaglia & Paul Wertico Quartet; and a 2-CD set entitled Live Under Italian Skiesby the Paul Wertico/John Helliwell Project. In addition, the Paul Wertico Trio also released a new CD (celebrating the trio's 25thanniversary) entitled the First Date. In the international press, Paul's drumming has also been compared to that of an “Impressionist painter.” He has also been called “an inspired madman,” “a restless innovator,” “a true legend of jazz drums,” “a master of drumming insanity,” “a genius of the sticks,” and a recent review stated, “Wertico simply oozes musicality.” Last but not least, Paul's groundbreaking drum instructional book TURN THE BEAT AROUND(A Drummer's Guide to Playing “Backbeats” on 1 & 3) was published by Alfred Music in 2017. Paul's official website is: paulwertico.com The Business Side of Music ™ © 2021 Beyond the Music   Co-Produced and Hosted (by the guy who has a face for podcasting):  Bob Bender Co-Producer, Creator, and Technical Advisor (the man behind the curtain):  Tom Sabella Director of Video and Continuity (the brains of the entire operation): Deborah Halle Audio/Video Editor Mark Sabella Midnight Express Studio  Olian, NY Marketing and Social Media: Kaitlin Fritts Executive Assistant to Bob and Tom (the one who keeps us on track and our schedules straight) Tammy Kowalski All Around Problem Solver: Connie Ribas Recorded at: The Bunker in Franklin, TN (except during the Covid 19 pandemic, then it's pretty much done VIA Skype or over the phone, with the exception for those fearless enough to come to Bob Bender's living room… and there are a few). Mixed and Mastered at Music Dog Studios in Nashville, TN Production Sound Design: Keith Stark Voice Over and Promo: Lisa Fuson Special Thanks to Tom Sabella and Traci Snow for producing and hosting over 100 episodes of the original “Business Side of Music” podcast, and trusting us to carry on their legacy.   Website: Sponsorship information  Interview submission The music provided for this episode is from: Artist: Laurie Akers and Barbara Wertico Song: "Love Can Conquer Hate" Music By: Barbara Wertico Lyrics By: Rabbi Peter Knobel and Barbara Wertico The song can be found on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6EvVlrSz4k

This episode we are talking with artist, designer, filmmaker and creative director, Raymond A. Thomas. Raymond's career highlights include serving as the former Art Director and Creative Manager at Johnson Publishing Company and Ebony Magazine and is the visionary behind their most culturally iconic magazine covers including President Obama and Quincy Jones. As a filmmaker, Raymond's short film 12 mins, garnered multiple awards around the world and he is currently the Creative director at the Jazz Institute of Chicago. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/dejandesignstudios/message

In 1980, Mark Ruffin got his first on-air opportunity through the Jazz Institute of Chicago and has never looked back-until now. Mark's new book "Bebop Fairy Tales: An Historical Fiction Trilogy on Jazz, Intolerance and Baseball" is an incredible blend of historical fiction with jazz and... baseball.  John and Mark were on the original team that launched Oprah Radio in 2006 and share some of their memories from that time and Heyang admits that she's not too sure about jazz, but the two time- Emmy winner Ruffin, explains the magic of the music. Since 2007, Mark has been the program director and host of Real Jazz on SiriusXM channel 67.

Reset checks in with the institute’s executive director for more on the “Millennium Park At Home: Chicago Jazz” series, and her recommendations on what to read, watch and do.

Lenard Simpson, alto saxophone, was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and began playing the saxophone at age 11. While in high school, he was selected to participate in the GRAMMY Camp – Jazz Session. Simpson received a Bachelor of Music degree from Northern Illinois University. After graduation, he moved to Chicago, where he performed with Brian Lynch, Robert Irving III, and Charles Heath. Simpson has served as a teacher at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music’s Jazz Institute, the Northern Illinois University Jazz Camp and the Birch Creek Jazz Camp. Lenard Simpson FacebookIf you enjoy the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes less than 60 seconds, and it really makes a difference in helping to convince hard-to-get guests.For show notes and past guests, please visit dougstonejazz.com/podcast-1Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the sponsor formDiscover Doug’s music: dougstonejazz.com/musicInstagram: instagram.com/dougstonejazzsaxophoneFacebook: facebook.com/dougstoneBoston Sax Shop

Greg Ward is a saxophonist and composer that was born in Peoria, IL. Currently based in Chicago, Ward has had the opportunity to perform and record with a varied group of artists like Prefuse 73, Lupe Fiasco, Tortoise, William Parker, Andrew D'Angelo, and Mike Reed. In 2000, Ward began his studies at Northern Illinois University where he worked with Steve Duke, Fareed Haque, Ron Carter, and Joey Sellers. Already interested in composition, having the opportunity to compose for NIU's jazz combos deepened his understanding of the inner-workings of music. Also, working with composer and arranger, Joey Sellers, equipped Ward with some important tools to further explore this new love. Around his sophomore year in college, Ward started spending many nights performing in the jazz clubs of Chicago. Soon, he would meet another one of his mentors, saxophonist, Fred Anderson, who would later select him to host a jam session at the Velvet Lounge for four years. During this time period, Ward experienced much growth as a performer and composer and developed a vibrant community of performers, artists, dancers, and listeners. After graduating from NIU in 2004 with a degree in Jazz Studies/Saxophone Performance, Ward moved to Chicago and took advantage of every opportunity that was offered to him. Composing two pieces for the International Contemporary Ensemble, performing a quartet composition for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra's Chamber Music Series, composing Wings for the Peoria Ballet Company, and being commissioned by the Jazz Institute of Chicago for a new composition, which was performed at the Chicago Jazz Festival in 2009, are just a few of the many experiences that shaped Ward during his years in Chicago. In 2009, Ward decided to move to New York City. Almost immediately after he arrived in NYC, he began working with JazzReach, an NYC-based jazz education organization that shares multi-media programs throughout the US. In 2010, he would produce his first CD as a leader with his Chicago-based band, Fitted Shards. South Side Story received much critical acclaim, including "Recording of the Year" by the Chicago Tribune. Next, in 2011, Ward formed Phonic Juggernaut, which features Damion Reid on drums and Joe Sanders on bass. Together, they recorded and released a CD on Thirsty Ear Recordings that same year. Also, in 2011, Ward composed and performed a commission from the Brazos Valley Symphony Orchestra for a concerto for jazz quartet and string orchestra. In 2012, Ward was selected as one of the two New Music USA Van Lier Fellows. In 2014, he received a commission/residency from the Jazz Gallery and premiered Capturing Sunlight, which was an hour-long work for septet and included a short documentary by Diana Quinones Rivera. The Capturing Sunlight project was inspired by the life and work of Preston Jackson. Recently, Ward has collaborated with another composer, sound designer, and performer, Caleb Willitz. First, they composed the film score for Beresford Bennett's film, Pinch, which was an official selection of the 2015 San Diego Black Film Festival. Second, Ward and Willitz will be releasing an electro-acoustic project, Gaps and Spaces: Synoptic Optiks. Greg Ward WebsiteGreg Ward FacebookIf you enjoy the podcast, would you please consider leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes less than 60 seconds, and it really makes a difference in helping to convince hard-to-get guests.For show notes and past guests, please visit dougstonejazz.com/podcast-1Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the sponsor formDiscover Doug’s music: dougstonejazz.com/music

Avi Rafaelov is a California based jazz saxophonist, composer and teacher. Rafaelov has been performing with both his own original music ensembles and also with renowned Israeli musicians since 2009, touring all around the country and abroad, and performing at the most prestigious music venues. Other than performing with his own projects, Rafaelov had performed and tour with Heathens, Just the Way You Are led by David Krivoshey, Moments Band Int– both in Israel and Europe, and Rockville, and with esteemed artists like Enrico Macias, Mordy Ferber, Alon Oleartchik, Billy Cobham, Tom Oren, Billy Buss, Yogev Gabay and more… Born and raised in Tel-Aviv, Israel, and growing up in a musical family, he was introduced to music at a very young age. Starting his journey with classical clarinet studies, which were later on switched to saxophone and jazz, Avi has studied and successfully graduated from the Jazz Institute program at Rimon School of Music. During his studies at Rimon, he got to learn from and play with some of the best musicians in the country, including Mordy Ferber, Matan Chapnizky, Ronen Shmueli Amikam Kimelman, Guri Agmon, Hagai Amir and many more… After he completed his studies at Rimon, Avi received a prestigious scholarship at Berklee College of Music and moved to Boston. He graduated and received his B.M. degree from Berklee in 2018. During his time in Boston, Rafaelov had the chance to study and also shared a stage with numerous local legends like George Garzone, Tia Fuller, Dino Govoni, Ayn Inserto, Terence Blanchard and Phil Wilson, to name a few.

Founded in 1969, the Jazz Institute of Chicago promotes and nurtures jazz in Chicago. We do this by providing jazz education, developing and supporting musicians, building audiences and fostering a thriving jazz scene.  

Blues in Chicago with Dave Katzman and an interview with vocalist Petra Van Nuis and guitarist Andy Brown.   About Andy Brown   Andy Brown is a guitarist based in Chicago. Born in New York in 1975, he has played professionally for over twenty five years. He has had a varied performing career that has included stints in Cincinnati and New York City. Since coming to Chicago in 2003, Andy has been fortunate to work at many of the area's finest jazz venues with his own bands, as well as playing his unique brand of solo jazz guitar. He has backed visiting jazz names at places including The Jazz Showcase, Ravinia and the Harris Theater. Currently he plays solo guitar every Thursday at The Green Mill, leads his quartet every Wednesday at Andy's Jazz Club and performs with his trio bi-weekly at Winter’s Jazz Club. As a sideman he has performed with internationally know jazz musicians including Scott Hamilton, Howard Alden, Harry Allen, Warren Vaché, Ken Peplowski, Hod O’Brien, Rebecca Kilgore, Judy Carmichael, John Pisano, Michael Feinstein, Anat Cohen, Kurt Elling and many others. He has also worked with many names on the Chicago jazz scene including Russ Phillips, Don Stiernberg, Chris Foreman, Eric Schneider, Bobby Lewis and Judy Roberts. His love of great tunes, as well as accompanying skills have made him a favorite with vocalists. Married to frequent partner vocalist Petra van Nuis, Andy has worked with many of Chicago's finest singers. Andy also had the good fortune to accompany Barbra Streisand when she appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show in 2009. Andy has made many festival and club appearances around the world. Highlights include Dizzy’s Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Chautauqua Jazz Party, the Chicago Jazz Festival, the Cleveland Classic Jazz Party, as well as festivals in Rio de Janeiro, the Netherlands, Germany and throughout the United States. Andy has provided the music for a wide variety of parties and private events. In 2012, his trio was invited by the Chicago Mayor's office to perform for the Nobel Peace Prize dinner in Chicago where invited guests included U.S. presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, as well as the Dalai Lama and Mikhail Gorbachev. Also in 2012, Andy's trio was hired by the U.S. State Department to provide music for the opening night gala at the NATO summit held in Chicago. Andy enjoys being a member of several bands besides his own. He works often with vocalist Petra van Nuis, either in duo or larger groups, including Petra's Recession Seven. They have worked together all over Chicago and in venues throughout the country, as well as tours of Europe and Canada. Since 2009, Andy has co-led a two-guitar quartet with renowned guitarist Howard Alden. In 2013, Delmark Records released a CD of the group entitled "Heavy Artillery" which received four stars in Downbeat magazine and was featured in their annual Albums Of The Year issue. Andy plays regularly with jazz mandolinist Don Stiernberg's trio. They have worked at festivals in Germany and Brazil, as well as throughout the United States. He is also a member of trombonist Russ Phillips' group, both with Russ' Quartet and his Windy City All-Stars. Andy has been featured on a wide array of recordings. As a leader, his latest is the 2016 Delmark Records release “Direct Call” which received four stars in Downbeat magazine. His previous Delmark release “Soloist” was his first solo jazz guitar recording and received warm reviews from critics and fans alike. 2015 marked the release of organist Chris Foreman's debut recording "Now Is The Time” which featured Andy on several cuts. In 2016, mandolinist Don Stiernberg released a CD titled “Good Numbers” featuring Andy on acoustic archtop guitar. Andy has collaborated on four CDs with Petra van Nuis, the most recent being their 2017 duet release “Lessons Lyrical." Andy had the good fortune to learn directly from several guitar masters, including Cal Collins, Ted Greene, and Howard Alden. His most important mentor was the late Kenny Poole, who called Andy his protégé.   About Petra   Petra van Nuis (pronounced Pay-tra van Nouse) is a Chicago-based jazz vocalist who has been described in Downbeat Magazine as having "a light, gorgeous, and fairly delicate voice...a gift for melody and plenty of rhythmic confidence." A Chicagoan since 2003, Petra sings at all the finest jazz venues in town including the Jazz Showcase, the Green Mill, Andy's Jazz Club, Winter's, Fitzgerald's, the City Winery, and the Old Town School of Folk Music. Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs has presented Petra's groups at the Chicago Cultural Center and Chicago Summer Dance. The Jazz Institute of Chicago has featured Petra's Recession Seven band at the Chicago Jazz Festival and Jazz City. Petra has been interviewed and her music featured on Chicago's WGN for Rick Kogan's "After Hours" show and on WBEZ's "Morning Shift" with Tony Sarabia. Outside of Chicago, Petra plays at jazz festivals such as the Cleveland Classic Jazz Party, the Roswell Jazz Festival and Joe Boughton's Chautauqua Jazz Party with such renowned musicians as Dan Barrett, Nicki Parrott, Ken Peplowski, John Di Martino, Dan Block, Scott Robinson, Frank Tate, Hal Smith, Rossano Sportiello, and Duke Heitger. Petra's latest project, Because We're Night People, is a live recording of night-themed standards which was awarded 4 stars by DownBeat Magazine and included in their "Top Rated Albums of 2019" listing. Revered Chicago pianist Dennis Luxion blends his signature impressionistic harmony with Petra's lush vocals. This CD was re-issued in Japan on the Japanese label Muzak in October 2018 and was used as in-flight music on All Nippon Airways (Japan's largest airline) in January/February 2019. Germany's Jazzpodium Magazine hails Petra's seventeen year musical collaboration with her husband, guitarist Andy Brown, as "a magical musical dialogue, which can only partially be described as blind understanding." Petra and Andy's romantic style has been enjoyed in intimate club settings around the country including Shanghai Jazz (Madison, NJ), the Kerrytown Concert House (Ann Arbor, MI), Night Town (Cleveland,OH), the Saugatuck Center for the Arts (Saugatuck, MI), and the Blue Wisp Jazz Club (Cincinnati, OH). Several European tours have brought the duo to Germany (Traditional Jazz Hall Stuttgart, Jazzhaus Heidelberg, Mampf Frankfurt, Le Pirate, Jazz Club Neustadt, Jazz Club 77, Musikhaus Birlkehof) to the Netherland's (Gorinchem Jazz Festival, Culuurschip Thor, Jazz Hall 72, Stichting Jazz Zevenbergen) and to Belgium (Jazz Cafe Hopper). With the re-release of the duo's 2017 CD Lessons Lyrical and their 2009 CD Far Away Places on Japan's Muzak label, Petra and Andy continue to spread their swinging sounds far and wide. Petra and Andy often augment their duo with bass and drums forming the Petra van Nuis/ Andy Brown Quartet. In addition to Chicago performances, the quartet frequently tours the Midwest having played for the West Michigan Jazz Society (Grand Rapids, MI), Polyrhytms (Davenport,IA), the Firefly Jazz Club (Ann Arbor, MI), the Wilson Center for the Arts (Milwaukee, WI), the Detroit Institute for the Arts (Detroit, MI), and headlined the 32nd Michelob Women In Jazz Festival (Dayton, OH). At the start of the Great Recession in September 2008, Petra's Recession Seven, a Chicago-style early swing/trad jazz band was born at Chicago's legendary Green Mill. This seven piece ensemble features an all-star line up of internationally known Chicago veterans including trombonist Russ Phillips, reed man Eric Schneider, and trumpeter Bob Ojeda. Festival appearances include the 32nd Elkhart Jazz Festival, 33rd annual Chicago Jazz Festival, the 34th, 35th, 37th, 40th and 42nd annual Cedar Basin Jazz Festival, Fitzgerald's 29th annual American Music Festival, the Juvae Jazz Society's 25th anniversary Festival, and the Illiana Club of Traditional Jazz's 40th anniversary Jazz Festival. The band regularly travels to regional jazz societies such as the Madison Jazz Society, the Starr-Gennett Foundation, the "Masters of Swing" series at Cincinnati's Xavier University, the Lafayette Jazz Club, and the Indianapolis Jazz Club. The American Rag, in a review of the band's 2011 on location recording Live In Chicago praises "a killer of a band that grabs your attention and doesn't give it back until they are finished playing." You may have heard selections from Petra's 2006 debut CD A Sweet Refrain on digital cable's Music Choice, where it regularly rotates on the "Singers & Swing" channel. In a review, Los Angeles Jazz Scene critic Scott Yanow notes "a sweet voice, a straightforward delivery....one hears touches of Billie Holiday, Blossom Dearie, and Mildred Bailey in her phrasing, but not in the sound of her voice which is distinctive." This CD is a throwback to the classic vocal recordings of the 50's with a blend of duo, quartet, quintet, and tight two-horn sextet arrangements by bassist/arranger Joe Policastro. In 2012, these arrangements were recreated with the teaming of Petra and Andy with four Canadian musicians at Edmonton's famed Yardbird Suite. In 2015, two songs from this CD were selected by famed Japanese jazz writer/historian/record producer Yasukuni Terashima to be included in the compilation CD For Jazz Vocal Fans Only on the Japanese label Disk Union. Petra continues to play with Chicago's finest instrumentalists including Bobby Lewis, Art Davis, Kim Cusack, Larry Harris, Greg Fishman, Chris White, Joe Adamik, Joe Policastro, Bob Rummage, Andy Schumm, Jeremy Kahn, Judy Roberts, Phil Gratteau, Don Stille, Dan Delorenzo, Tom Bartlett, Mike Schlick, Bill Overton, Bradley Williams, Ron Dewar, John Otto, Stewart Miller, and Don Stiernberg.

03-01-20 WWMN: MKE Jazz Institute

I got to sit down with one of my favorite people - Roosevelt Griffin. On this episode, Roosevelt talks about growing up in and teaching in low-income areas, strategies for reaching and advocating for students in your programs, tips and techniques for jazz programs, and his path to starting a community center, the Griffin Institute.FULL BIO from www.rooseveltgriffin.com and www.thegriffininstitute.org:Dr. Roosevelt Griffin III is the director of bands for Harvey School District 152 where he and his students have received international acclaim for excellence in music education. He manages music programs over seven locations with more than 250 students. He is also the elementary jazz band director for the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic; an instructor with Blues Kids of America, an interdisciplinary artist-in-residence program that helps students improve literacy through music; and the President/CEO of the Griffin Institute of Performing Arts.Some of his most notable performances as an educator include performances at the Chicago Jazz Festival, Chicago Blues Festival, Buddy Guy's Legends, Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinics, Jazz Education Network's International Conference, Auditorium Theater, ASCD International Conference, and the Chicago Jazz Showcase.Before becoming a full-time teacher, Dr. Griffin worked with some of the world's greatest musicians, including Luciano Pavarotti, Diana Ross, and Jimmy Heath. He is often invited to present at conferences and workshops for music education, including the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinics, The Jazz Institute of Chicago, The Jazz Educators Network, The Missouri Music Educators Association, Illinois Music Educators Association, The Chicago Jazz Philharmonic, Northern Illinois University, Columbia College, and Prairie State College. He and his students have also been featured in Downbeat and JazzEd magazines for obtaining an endorsement with Jody Jazz Mouthpieces. He recently co-authored the latest addition to GIA Publications TMTP series, “Teaching Music Through Performance: Beginning Jazz Ensembles”.Dr. Griffin's work has brought him several prestigious honors. The Recording Academy and the Grammy Foundation have most recently named him a Quarter-Finalist for the 2017 “Grammy Award for Music Educator”. In 2015, Dr. Griffin received the 2015 Most Outstanding Alumni Award from the Northern Illinois University Alumni Association as well as a Jefferson Award for excellence in teaching from the District 205 Ambassadors of the Jefferson Award Foundation. In 2014, He received the prestigious Golden Apple Award for excellence in teaching from the Golden Apple Foundation. Later that same year, his hometown of Harvey, Illinois, honored him by renaming his childhood street “Roosevelt Griffin III Avenue”.Dr. Griffin earned a bachelor of music degree from NIU in 2001, master's degree in school leadership from Concordia University in 2011, Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University and currently holds the status of Scholar at Northwestern University.

This episode interviews James Williams, Jr., a freelance trumpet player, music contractor, arranger/writer and clinician who started his music career at 4 years of age. He was guided initially by his father, James Sr., a high school band director for Tyler ISD, VPA director for Tyler ISD and trumpet player and leader of the East Texas All Stars band.He prepared for a career in music at the University of North Texas. He was a member of the Houston Pops Orchestra for 14 years and served as Associate Director of the Community Music Center of Houston for 11 years. CMCH is a non profit organization that performs the music of African American composers and provides music education to youth and adults. Associate Director of the Jazz Institute of Houston which provides workshops for aspiring local jazz talents of Houston.Mr. Williams has performed with many of the great entertainers such as: The Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Lionel Hampton Big Band, Nancy Wilson, the Temptations, the Four Tops, Lena Horne, Dionne Warwick, B.B. King, Chi-Lites, The O’Jays, The Spinners, Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin, Tony Bennett, Joe Williams, Lou Rawls, Sammy Davis, Jr., and many more.Locally, he has worked with Milton Larkin, Calvin Owens, Pete Mays, Joe Hughes, TKOh!, Rick Marcel, The Liberty Baptist Church Ensemble and The Houston Pops Orchestra. Mr. Williams is married and has a son and daughter. He is a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Mr. Williams is the musical director of the Conrad Johnson Orchestra and The James Williams and JusJazz ensemble.We are excited to welcome him home to Tyler!

Charlie & Sandi Shoemake host the Central Coast Jazz Institute concert in Cambria, December 1, 2019.  Featured performers are: Central Coast Jazz Institute Concert, December 1, 2019   Hosted by Charlie Shoemake, piano/vibes, and Sandi Shoemake, vocals. Accompanied by James Gallardo, bass, and Sean Collins, drums/vibes   Jeanne Potter, piano: “Out of Nowhere,” “Angel Eyes,” “Stella by Starlight.”   Gillian Piper, baritone sax and vocals; Taylor Hatch, guitar: “I thought About You, ”I Didn’t Know What Time it Was,” “Mood Indigo,” “You’d be so Nice to Come Home To.”   Sandi Shoemake, vocals; Charlie Shoemake, piano: “I’m Old Fashioned,” “Forgetful.”   Madison Scott, piano/vocals: “You Stepped out of a Dream,” “For Me, For You, Forever.”   Josh Collins, guitar: “Blues in B-flat,” “I Remember April,” “Moonlight in Vermont,” [Sean Collins, vibes}, *“There is no Greater Love,” “Blues in the Closet.”    

On this edition of The Arts Section, host Gary Zidek gets you ready for the 41st annual Chicago Jazz Festival. Gary sits down with percussionist, composer and music programmer extraordinaire Mike Reed to talk about his new book THE CITY WAS YELLOW. The years-in-the-making project is the inspiration for a special performance that will celebrate the Jazz Institute of Chicago's 50th anniversary. WDCB's Leslie Keros profiles renowned pianist Ryan Cohan, who will be performing at the Jazz Fest. A little later, Paul Abella stops by to share his recommendations for what acts to see at this year's Festival. And the Dueling Critics, Kerry Reid and Jonathan Abarbanel, stop by to review the Chicago premiere of a play titled NOW OR LATER.

Nearly 40 percent of former inmates in Illinois wind up back in prison. Dozens of programs are out there to try to help these people reintegrate into society, but rules, regulations, and the stigma don’t make it easy for someone trying to leave their past behind and start fresh. For 10 years, the Inner City Muslim Action Network has been perfecting a program that takes a holistic and family-oriented approach, and it’s had quite a bit of success.Plus 50 years ago, a group of jazz fans wanted to create an organization that would present jazz in all its forms, preserve the history of Chicago jazz, and instill a love for the music in future generations. This weekend, the Jazz Institute of Chicago celebrates 50 years with 3 days of free events in Hyde Park.

We have the Chuck Stewart Songbook – a collection of standards from an artist whose instrument was his camera. If you've ever scanned through iTunes, dug through the crates at a record store, or watched a documentary or movie, chances are you know Chuck Stewart's work. His creative eye and sense for the "defining" moment yielded a bounty of iconic images with the likes of John Coltrane, James Brown, Billie Holiday, Quincy Jones, Led Zeppelin that graced the covers of Impulse, Verve, Columbia, CTI, Atlantic Records, and scores more. We pay tribute to him with the music he covered through posthumous interview clips, and commentary by renowned photographer Brian Cross, aka B+, Tad Hershorn of the Jazz Institute at Rutgers University, and the legendary Sonny Rollins. SONG CREDITS FOR THIS EPISODE: THEME: Jazz Phantom by Chomsk' (from the album "Different Beats" on Magentic Records). Turiya and Remakrishna by Alice Coltrane (from the album "Ptah, The El Daoud" on Impulse Records). I'm a Greedy Man by James Brown (from the album "There It Is" on Universal Records). Peace Piece by Bill Evans (from the album "Everybody Digs" on Universal Records). Ascension by John Coltrane (from the album "Ascension" on Impulse Records). Up Against the Wall by John Coltrane (from the album "Impressions" on Impulse Records). The Bridge by Sonny Rollins (from the album "The Bridge" on RCA/Victor Records). The Baron by Eric Dolphy (from the album "Out There" on Concord Music). Riot by Miles Davis (from the album "Nefirtiti" on Columbia Records). Save Me by Nina Simone (from the album "Silk and Soul" on RCA/Victor Records). Dazed and Confused by Led Zeppelin (from the album "Led Zeppelin I" on Atlantic Records). Heart-O-Matic love by Bo Diddley (from the album "Rare and Well Done" on Chess Records). Outside Woman Blues by Cream (from the album "Disreali Gears" on ATCO Records). Gypsy Queen by Gabor Szabo (from the album "Jazz Raga" on Impulse Records). Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen by Santana (from the album "Santana" by Columbia Records). Electric Flute Thing by The Blues Project (from the album "Live at the Cafe Au-Go-Go" on Verve/Forecast Records). Lady From Girl Talk by Oliver Nelson (from the album "Sound Pieces" on Impulse Records). Theme to Ironside by Quincy Jones (from the album "Smackwater Jack" on A&M Records). Pyramid by Duke Ellington (from the album "Afro Bossa" on Reprise Records). Over the Rainbow by Dizzy Gillespie (fromt he album "Clef Series"). ABOUT THE MAJOR SCALE: Your attention please to a new program that celebrates and takes a fresh and bold look at the great American art form- JAZZ!!! The Major Scale is the title, the motto and the mission are, Jazz- past, present, future, and everything in between. A lot of focus will be on new and fresh sounds, deep cuts, closer looks at underrated artists, taking a different look at some of the titans of the genre, and getting the two cents worth from a number of surprise guests and sources. The Major Scale can boast amongst it's guests- legends like Herbie Hancock, Tom Scott, and Ahmad Jamal. The up and coming and the underrated-Kamasi Washington, Mia Doi Todd, Michael Blake. Fresh perspectives and commentary from the likes of Rock legend Al Kooper, who weighed in on the gospel. From The New Yorker, Amanda Petrusich expounds on her article about the movement to rename the Williamsburg Bridge in honor of Sonny Rollins. We explore the Soul-Jazz experiments of the Rascals. Grace Kelly from The Late Show with Stephen Colbert talks about her pop-up/flash mob concerts. Plus Thundercat, Henry Mancini, Ghostface Killah, Jaimie Branch, Nels Cline, Badbadnotgood, Cecil Taylor, and more get pick up on the Major Scale radar. Produced in Central Florida, this program seeks to become one of the defining voices of this Native American art form, and everything else that finds itself under it's umbrella. Think about programming and content found on the likes of World Cafe, Philadelphia, PA. Tiny Desk from Washington D.C., and KEXP Live from Seattle, WA. and that's what the Major Scale strives to do. For the curious, and lovers of music who like the details in between. ABOUT KYLE EAGLE (Host): Kyle Eagle has been a contributing writer and producer for the NPR-WBGO, WUCF, WPRK, Wax Poetics, The Orlando Weekly, Artbourne, and The Fiscal Times, as well as several music and film releases- Light in the Attic's documentary "This Is Gary McFarland", and an upcoming film on composer Jack Nietzsche. Recordings- Call Me-Jack Wilson, Live at the Penthouse, Grachan Moncur III, Chico Hamilton, and Andy Bey. ABOUT CHRIS BARANYI (Producer): Chris Baranyi is a sound engineer and music producer. He splits his time between designing AV systems for theme parks and recording music. Chris has worked with many Orlando area musicians with backgrounds in jazz, fusion, hip-hop, funk, new age, and classical. Some of which have been featured on NPR's Echoes. His passion includes jazz, vintage microphones, and hot sauces.

Peter Kreten welcomes Heather Ireland-Robinson, the executive director of the Jazz Institute of Chicago. Heather Ireland-Robinson, the Executive Director of the Jazz Institute of Chicago. In this conversation Heather discusses how the Jazz Institute of Chicago was started, its philosophy on supporting arts and music education, and the upcoming “Straight Ahead Jazz Camp” which will take place July 16th – 20th. For more information on the Jazz Institute of Chicago, please visit their website: jazz in Chicago dot org.

Peter Kreten welcomes Howard Mandel, a board member of the Jazz Institute of Chicago, and President of the Jazz Journalist Association In this conversation Howard discusses the origins of jazz, its impact on American culture, and Chicago’s role in jazz. For more information on the Jazz Institute of Chicago, please visit their website: jazz in Chicago dot org.

Today’s episode features jazz bassist and vocalist Katie Ernst.  Katie was recently featured in the Chicago Reader, and Jason Moran describes her as “a great bassist, composer, and lyricist, she has an uncanny ability to mix traditions... following her voice is like reading a great novel."  She is one of Chicago’s most active young bassists, with two recent album releases: her solo project Little Words and her trio album Twin Talk. We talk about Katie’s years growing up in the Chicago suburb of Naperville, her “yearly check-ins” at the Birch Creek Music Performance Center with Jeff Campbell, studying at Eastman with Jeff Campbell and James VanDemark, and her educational work at the Jazz Institute of Chicago.  We also cover the Betty Carter Jazz Ahead program, her job directing the big band at the Wheaton Conservatory, differences between the New York City and Chicago jazz scenes, and much more! Katie’s recent projects: Little Words - solo project set to the poetry of Dorothy Parker  Twin Talk - trio album Listener Feedback Links: Noah Yanicki - The Mountain and the Moon - new release - excerpt of Jackrabbit played David White - The Bridges of Madison County Interview Highlights: Early Years grew up in Naperville, product of Naperville public school system piano starting in 1st grade - sang in church and in choir took bass lessons with Jeremy Attanaseo in preparation for Eastman audition  Studied with Jeff Campbell and James VanDemark - worked on Romberg, Simandl, vibrato, other fundamentals with VanDemark lots of summer camps in high school, fiddle camp, other camps - eventually found Birch Creek Music Center right before 9th grade - used Birch Creek as her “yearly check-in” Jeff Campbell - focused on deep fundamentals  - applied lessons she learned during the summer throughout the following year becoming a jazz vocalist while in high school - singing with the jazz band, etc. the experience of playing the foundation and singing the melody simultaneously - interesting way to experience tunes Katie encourages her bass students to sing as well - incredibly helpful for young improvisors  Katie got a bachelor of musical arts degrees at Eastman as well—kind of like a “doctorate lite’ - she studied linguistic analysis tools in jazz scat singing Betty Carter Jazz Ahead Program in Washington, D.C. - where she met Jason Moran What drew Katie back to Chicago didn’t want to go directly to a masters program Eastman had a postgraduate internship program where they pay a stipend for you to work for a nonprofit Katie called the Jazz Institute of Chicago and proposed that she be an intern moved into Chicago itself - became connected with the community of creative music in Chicago differences between New York City and Chicago jazz scenes Current Projects Twin Talk interactive group - focus on exploring ideas together - elements of freedom and original compositions - groovy, melodic, experimental  Little Words project under Katie’s name - Dorothy Parker poems set to music powerful poems that have a singable quality to them - cultivated  Lessons learned serving as Big Band Director at Wheaton Conservatory listening to the whole band thinking programmatically when selecting music how to articulate to a group of musicians how to “get” a certain style Jazz Institute of Chicago - education program director takes students to see performances monthly meetings opportunities to be an opening act for Jazz Institute concerts Finding time for creativity

David Sack is the Vice President of Philanthropy for Northwestern Memorial Foundation, in Chicago.  David has been in development for over 20 years, starting in the arts, as an Executive Director at the Jazz Institute of Chicago, a Director at the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business, and for the past 14 years, David has been with Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

We're featuring an interview with bassist Larry Gray on this week's episode.  Larry's multi-instrumental path has taken him through performance on guitar, flute, cello, and piano in addition to bass.  Larry is in high demand as a jazz bassist in Chicago, performing regularly for decades at Joe Segal's Jazz Showcase, and he teaches at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  Enjoy! About Larry Born on Chicago’s south side, Larry Gray is considered by many to be one of jazz music’s finest double bassists. His impressive versatility and uncommon musical curiosity keep him in demand as both a leader and sideman. Larry began his musical studies at the age of five when his father brought home an accordion and introduced him to his first teacher. Invigorated by this study, Larry added the guitar to his arsenal and studied piano seriously for many years thereafter. It was not until he was in his twenties that he decided to switch to the double bass. Larry went on to study classical music extensively, eventually adding the cello to his long list of loved instruments. His principal teachers were Joseph Guastafeste, longtime principal bassist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and cellist Karl Fruh, a highly regarded soloist and teacher. Under Mr. Fruh's guidance, he received bachelors and masters degrees in cello performance from the Chicago Musical College of Roosevelt University. Throughout his long and varied career, Larry has worked with numerous exceptional artists and jazz legends, including McCoy Tyner, Jack DeJohnette, Danilo Perez, Branford Marsalis, Benny Green, Freddy Cole, Benny Golson, Steve Turre, George Coleman, Lee Konitz, Bobby Hutcherson, Sonny Fortune, Ira Sullivan, Junior Mance, David "Fathead" Newman, Willie Pickens, Ann Hampton Callaway, Charles McPherson, Antonio Hart, Jackie McLean, Sonny Stitt, Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, Al Cohn, Randy Brecker, Nicholas Payton, Kurt Elling, Eric Alexander, Phil Woods, Jon Faddis, Roscoe Mitchell, Von Freeman, Wilbur Campbell, Eddie Harris, and Les McCann. In addition, he has collaborated with guitarists Kenny Burrell, Joe Pass, and Tal Farlow, as well trumpeters Donald Byrd, Harry "Sweets" Edison, and Tom Harrell, among others. Larry continues to tour extensively, performing at jazz festivals and clubs around the globe, including the Umbria Jazz Festival, the Havana Jazz Festival, Rio Sao Paulo Festival, North Sea Jazz Festival, the Montreal International Jazz Festival, ECM Festival in Bielsko-Biala, Poland, the Poznan Jazz Festival, Monterey Jazz Festival, the Montreaux Detroit Festival, the Chicago Jazz Festival, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Hollywood Bowl, Village Vanguard, Blue Note (New York and Tokyo), Kennedy Center, and the Ravinia Festival, with such jazz luminaries as Marian McPartland, Clark Terry, Nancy Wilson, Frank Morgan, James Moody, Larry Coryell, Louis Bellson, Barry Harris, Dorothy Donegan, Monty Alexander, Frank Wess, Joe Williams, Doc Severinsen and the Tonight Show Band, Kenny Drew Jr., and most recently, Ramsey Lewis. As a classical musician, Larry played several seasons with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, including a year as principal bass. He worked on many occasions with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra under master conductors Erich Leinsdorf, Rafeal Kubelik, Carlo Maria Guilini, and Sir George Solti. He also was the featured double bassist with Lyric Opera for the world premiere of the opera Amistad. Larry is an arranger and composer whose work has been widely recognized as uniquely melodic and exceptionally refined. His discography includes 1,2, 3,..., on Chicago Sessions, the solo bass record, Gravity, One Look, and Solo + Quartet, all on Graywater Records, as well as the Ramsey Lewis and Nancy Wilson collaborations Meant to Be and Simple Pleasures. He can also be heard on the Ramsey Lewis recordings Appassionata, Time Flies, and With One Voice, and the latest release, Songs From the Heart. Larry also arranged and produced the critically acclaimed CD, Django by Ferro. Furthermore, Larry has recorded with Chet Baker, Curtis Fuller, Ira Sullivan, Lin Halliday, Willie Pickens, Nicholas Payton, Randy Brecker, Bunky Green, Bob Moses, Irish flute-whistle virtuoso Laurence Nugent, pop sensations Linda Eder, Dennis DeYoung, and Peter Cetera, and songwriter Michael Smith, among others. In addition, Larry is a first-call studio musician, and his playing can be heard on many commercial radio and television jingles and studio projects as well as the PBS television series, Legends of Jazz, where he can be seen performing alongside Jim Hall, Benny Golson, Chris Potter, Phil Woods, David Sanborn, Chris Botti, Clark Terry, and Roy Hargrove. In addition, Larry's original composition for double bass and guitar, Five Movements, was commissioned and performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Chamber Ensemble at Symphony Center in Chicago. Most recently, Larry has composed two commissioned works for the Jazz Institute of Chicago. Tribute to the Bass Masters Suite was premiered at the Poznan Festival in Poland in 2008 to much acclaim. A second work, String Thing, was first presented in Chicago in October 2010 as part of the Jazz Institute of Chicago Jazz in Chicago series. Larry also completed a collaborative project with bassists Rufus Reid and Joseph Guastafeste that was premiered in March of 2011 in Chicago. Larry Gray is also a dedicated teacher and is Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He also served for many years on the faculties at DePaul University and Northern Illinois University. Active as a clinician at high school and colleges and festivals thought North America, he also coaches various instrumentalists in jazz techniques as well as music theory, sight-singing, and composition. Subscribe to the podcast – follow on Twitter – Like on Facebook

Ayotunde A. Akindele, business man, activist, Pan African speaks about Chapwati Great Zimbabwe Leisure Resort and a petition on Change.org to remove the United States sanctions on Zimbabwe;Bill Doggett, a is respected and experienced Exhibitions Curator and independent archivist based in Oakland. Doggett's goal is to create a educational outreach resource with his archive of rare ephemera and recordings.Doggett has curated three well received exhibitions in San Francisco: The African American Concert Singer 1900-1963, Porgy and Bess: From Broadway to San Francisco for San Francisco Opera; The Underground Railroad: Songs of Hope and Freedom, The Civil War@150 years and now a historic exhibit commemorating the 150 anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation Jan. 1, 1863-Jan.1, 2013--The Journey To Freedom: Emancipation Proclamation@150 Years.The exhibit covers The Transatlantic Slave Trade, Slavery in the US and The Emancipation Proclamation (Jan.-Feb. 2013) at the Bay View Opera House in San Francisco, with an artist reception Feb. 2.Larry Vann, drummer has been performing professionally  since 15. He draws from a deep well of musical influence, including gospel, blues, funk, jazz and soul and has toured and recorded with a medley of celebrated artists, including THE WHISPERS, ELVIN BISHOP, MARTHA REEVES, THE MARVALETTES, BUFFY SAINT-MARIE and many more. Honors & awards include: The Blues Society's West Coast Hall of Fame, “Blues Drummer of the Year ” and The Jazz Institute's “Man of the Year” award. He is also a Governor on the governing board of the San Francisco chapter of The Recording Academy.  Visit http://www.larryvann.com/We close with an interview with Vixen Noir aka Veronica Combs about her reinvention as a vocalist with an EP dropping, "Dangerous," Jan. 29, 2013.

Ayotunde A. Akindele, business man, activist, Pan African speaks about Chapwati Great Zimbabwe Leisure Resort; Bill Doggett, a is respected and experienced Exhibitions Curator and independent archivist based in Oakland is  inspired by the life work of the legendary archivist and curator, Arthur Schomburg, whose collection established New York's Schomburg Center Doggett's goal is to create a educational outreach resource with his archive of rare ephemera and recordings.Doggett has curated three well received exhibitions in San Francisco: The African American Concert Singer 1900-1963,Porgy and Bess: From Broadway to San Francisco for San Francisco Opera; The Underground Railroad: Songs of Hope and Freedom, The Civil War@150 years and now a historic exhibit commemorating the 150 anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation Jan. 1, 1863-Jan.1, 2013--The Journey To Freedom: Emancipation Proclamation@150 Years.The exhibit covers The Transatlantic Slave Trade, Slavery in the US and The Emancipation Proclamation (Jan.-Feb. 2013) at the Bay View Opera House in San Francisco, with an artist reception Feb. 2. Larry Vann, drummer has been performing professionally  since 15. He draws from a deep well of musical influence, including gospel, blues, funk, jazz and soul and has toured and recorded with a medley of celebrated artists. Honors & awards include: The Blues Society's West Coast Hall of Fame, “Blues Drummer of the Year ” and The Jazz Institute's “Man of the Year” award. He has also been honored to serve as a Governor on the governing board of the San Francisco chapter of The Recording Academy.  He celebrates his birthday tonight with a CD Release and Concert at the 57th Street Gallery in Oakland. We close with an interview with Vixen Noir aka Veronica Combs about her reinvention as a vocalist with an EP dropping, "Dangerous," Jan. 29, 2013.  

2007 Detroit International Jazz Festival Jazz Talk Tent MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 2007 – 1:00 PM Presenter – Daniel Melnick of the Jazz Institute of Chicago To learn more about the Jazz Institute of Chicago, go to jazzinchicago.org For more information on this and other JazzStage Productions programming, go to http://jazzstageproductions.com The Jazz Talk Tent was […]

Original "I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart," "Home," "Waltz for Aska," "Stroll at the Beach"

Trombonist?Composer/Arranger T.S. Galloway is interviewed on the eve of his participation in the Jazz Institute of Chicago's free JazzCity event, BEBOP BRASS, Feb 9, at 7:30, Austin Town Hall Park, 5610 W. Lake St in Chicago. airing young musicians with veterans, this one will feature trumpeters Maurice Brown (who made his debut in this band at age 17), David Young, Larry Bowen; trombonists Norman Palm, TS Galloway and special guest Ray Anderson. Rounding out the rhythm section are Lorin Cohen on bass, Ernie Adamson drums and band daddy Ken Chaney on piano.