Judy Carmichael's Jazz Inspired: Recent Episodes
Judy Carmichael
What inspires the people who inspire you? How do creative people create?
Each week on Judy Carmichael’s Jazz Inspired, Grammy-Nominated jazz pianist Judy Carmichael explores these questions with celebrated creative artists who love jazz. A wide range of talents — everyone from Billy Joel to Seth MacFarlane — discuss their creative process and how jazz inspires them. They share their favorite recordings as well as insight into their life and art.
Vocalist Hilary Kole discusses her new CD, "The Judy Garland Projectâ?? and the continuing influence her father, Broadway singer, Robert Kole, has on her work.
Animator David Silverman is best known for his work on The Simpsons but he is also a passionate musician, playing his tuba anytime he gets a chance, including a bit of jamming with Judy after they recorded their conversation!
Guitarist Larry Koonse has played with everyone from Seth MacFarlane to John Dankworth and Cleo Lane to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Larry is one of the busiest and most versatile guitarist on the scene today.
British drummer discusses his favorite musicians and his work with Scott Hamilton, John Bunch, Barry Harris and other jazz giants.
Vocalist Angie Wells has a sultry, powerful voice that reflects her love for jazz and blues greats Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, Joe Williams and Muddy Waters. After years as the Makeup Department Head for both Blackish and the recently released Mudbound, sheâ??s adding touring as a jazz singer to her already overly full schedule.
Chicago based saxophonist/writer discusses his new book, 50 Years At The Village Vanguard: Thad Jones, Mel Lewis and The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, the first illustrated history of the most influential big band in modern jazz.
Judy turns the tables on Marian (Marian interviewed Judy years ago) and talks with Marian about her adventures during WWII playing for the troops and meeting Jimmy McPartland during this period and how it all influenced her music and career.
Broadway star André De Shields talks about his long career from roles in the original Broadway production of Ainâ??t Misbehavinâ?? and the title role in The Wiz to his most recent role in As You Like It. André discusses the importance of the arts, great literature and theater in teaching understanding and empathy, especially in our political climate today.
British trumpeter talks about playing for Louis Armstrong when he was seven and playing in his familyâ??s band, and touring America a few years later as a child star and appearing on Whatâ??s My Line and The Ed Sullivan Show.
Young Chicago pianist/organist/vocalist discusses his move to New York, his love for Oscar Peterson and Jimmy Smith and his new, as yet unnamed CD.
The French/Scottish vocalist spent her young life in Paris, training four hours a day as an ice skater, with breaks for the occasional gig as a child actor. Somehow, she knew she would be a singer someday, even though that was never the focus of her life. She now lives and works in England, singing and playing accordion, performing a repertoire influenced by everyone from Edith Piaf to Billie Holiday.
Britainâ??s go-to guy for swinging interpretations of the standards, which heâ??s performed in various venues around the world, as well as a royal appearance at Buckingham Palace.
Judy and Billy talk about his many years with Liza Minnelli and Tony Bennett and perform together onstage at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor, NY.
Part 2 of 2: British blues and boogie pianist, Jools Holland has collaborated with everyone from Sting to Eric Clapton to Norah Jones after jumping into a musical career at the age of fifteen with the band, Squeeze. Jools is a popular TV and radio presenter as well and his BBC Television show, Later with Jools Holland is now in its 25th year. This is the first of Judyâ??s two conversations with Jools Holland, which were recorded in his London home in June 2017. He talked about his varied career and his most recent CD, Piano.
Part 1 of 2: British blues and boogie pianist, Jools Holland has collaborated with everyone from Sting to Eric Clapton to Norah Jones after jumping into a musical career at the age of fifteen with the band, Squeeze. Jools is a popular TV and radio presenter as well and his BBC Television show, Later with Jools Holland is now in its 25th year. This is the first of Judyâ??s two conversations with Jools Holland, which were recorded in his London home in June 2017. He talked about his varied career and his most recent CD, Piano.
Steinway CEO planned on a career as a concert pianist, studying at Julliard and the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Artistic talent and business skills are not often paired but in Ronâ??s case they were. Ron talks about his transition from performer to businessman, how he wishes jazz were part of his musical training and how he feels the presentation of sophisticated music has changed over the years.
Pianist Dick Hyman has enjoyed a long career playing concerts and composing for movies and television. In March 2017 he celebrated his 90th birthday. Judy and Dick have done a number of concerts together so he was her first choice for a series of interviews recorded onstage from Kiawah Island, SC. This conversation took place March 3rd, 2015.
Pianist/composer Dick Hyman has enjoyed a fascinatingly diverse musical career, recording under his own name, collaborating with others, acting as musical director for movies and television and playing concerts. Dick has an unusually astute understanding of jazz history and the stylistic elements that distinguish the piano giants who created this music. Dick shared his thoughts on these players and how theyâ??ve influenced his own creativity when I recorded this coversation in 2006.
Musician and early jazz scholar Vince Giordano fell in love with 20â?²s and 30â?²s jazz at an early age and carries on the tradition performing with his band â??The Nighthawks.â?? Vince discusses bringing this music to a broader audience and especially the importance of young people hearing jazz live.
British composer/pianist discusses his new CD Story Inside and the deep influence pianist Bill Evans has had on his work.
Second of Judyâ??s conversations with pianist/composer Bill Cunliffe, recorded onstage during the Jazz Inspired from Kiawah Island Festival in February 2016. Judy and Bill perform together along with Harry Allen and Pat Oâ??Leary.
First of Judyâ??s conversations with pianist/composer Bill Cunliffe, recorded onstage during the Jazz Inspired from Kiawah Island Festival in February 2016. Judy and Bill perform together along with Harry Allen and Pat Oâ??Leary.
Vocalist/composer Gabrielle Stravelli draws on influences as varied as Pink Floyd and Duke Ellington, Dolly Parton and Johnny Mercer. She discusses her new CD of standards and originals which was produced by Taylor Swiftâ??s Music Director an early guest on Jazz Inspired, David Cook, another connection showing Stravelliâ??s wide musical interests.
British guitarist Sam Dunn discusses the challenges of the jazz scene in England and combining his equal passion for the music of Django Reinhardt, Joe Pass and English rock.
Irish American singer combines her Irish roots with New Orleans music of the 20â??s and 30â??s. She discusses this mashup, as well as her sartorial choices, for which she is equally well known.
Canadian singer/pianist talks about her new CD â??Alone Togetherâ?? and the difference in the jazz scene in her present home, Los Angeles and NYC.
Mike Karn toured for years, playing tenor saxophone with Ray Charles big band, followed by a long stint touring with Harry Connick, Jr. After establishing himself as one of the best on the scene, Mike realized heâ??d much rather play the bass and in many ways started over with his career. Judy and Mike perform together onstage at the 2017 Jazz Inspired Festival from Kiawah Island Festival and talk about his life and jump from saxophonist to bassist.
Judy performs with and interviews Grammy winning guitarist onstage at the Clayton Center for the Arts in Maryville, TN and discusses Johnâ??s career highlights from touring with Elton John to playing with Bonnie Raitt to his duo gigs early in his career with Judy!
Jazz pianist Mark Shane discusses his work for movie soundtracks and playing with jazz greats Doc Cheatham, Buck Clayton, Ruby Braff and others.
Guitarist Freddie Green played rhythm guitar with the Basie band for 50 years. His unique sound became an integral part of the Basie sound and added a swinging, solid time feel to everyone he played with, myself included. Alfred Green, Freddieâ??s son, talks to Judy about his extensive biography of his father onstage at â??Jazz Inspired from Kiawahâ?? with musical contributions by Judy (who recorded with Freddie) guitarist James Chirillo, bassist Pat O'Leary and saxophonist Harry Allen.
Minneapolis based pianist, Rick Carlson, pursued a variety of careers before jumping in relatively late to become one of the finest musicians on the scene today. Rick Carlsonâ??s love for Basie and joy in accompanying great singers enticed him to make music his primary focus and he is now one of the most in demand players in his beloved Minnesota and beyond.
New Orleans pianist Tom McDermott brings to life the many influences that fed the early musical scene in that most musical of cities. His original passion for ragtime came from his youth in St. Louis, but once in New Orleans, Tom put a scholarly zeal into studying his favorites--James Booker, Professor Longhair and Dr. John, as well as into discovering the lesser-known musical gems that formed the sound of New Orleans.
Actor/magician/pianist Todd Robbins has spent decades specializing in arcane forms of popular entertainment. His inspirations range from his work at Coney Island and the Big Apple Circus to his stint as Woody Allenâ??s pianist. Todd discusses his current gig with Judy on the Investigation Discovery channel's new series True Nightmares. The series features Todd as the host telling bizarre true tales of murder and mayhem that all have a lovely ironic twist to them. (2nd interview)
Pianist/composer Mary Louise Knutson has performed with many jazz greats including Dizzy Gillespie, Bobby McFerrin, Dianne Reeves, Randy Brecker and was a finalist in the Kennedy Centerâ??s Mary Lou Williams Women In Jazz International Pianist Competition. She talks with Judy about making a living as a jazz musician in her native Minneapolis and what sheâ??s learned touring with Doc Severinsen.
Guitarist Greg Ruggiero grew up in New Mexico with swing-dancing parents who encouraged him to listen to the Great American Standards and classic jazz, something he initially resisted. Greg is now one of the most respected younger musicians on the scene and an enthusiastic proponent of the very music he initially avoided and talks to Judy about his journey from rock musician to jazz player.
UPDATED 1/20/2018 - Composer Miho Hazama graduated from Kunitachi College of Music in her native Japan with a bachelorâ??s degree in classical composition and went on to get her Masters in jazz composition from the Manhattan School of Music. Miho has won numerous awards and scholarships and has written jingles for television, although her passion is writing concert works. Now based in NYC, Miho continues to record and perform her compositions, which draw on not only her jazz and classical studies but on her wide range of musical influences.
Part 2 of 2: Tony Bennett talks about his long career, early inspirations, iconic sessions with Bill Evans and his recent Grammy-winning "Duets II" CD with an all-star cast: Lady Gaga, Michael Bublé, Amy Winehouse, John Mayer, k.d. lang, Aretha Franklin, Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, Queen Latifah, Norah Jones, Josh Groban, Natalie Cole, Andrea Bocelli, Faith Hill, Alejandro Sanz, Carrie Underwood, and Mariah Carey. Tony and his collaborators received the Grammy for "Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album" as well as the Grammy for "Best Pop Duo/Group Performance" for his duet, "Body and Soul" with Amy Winehouse.
Part 1 of 2: Tony Bennett talks about his long career, early inspirations, iconic sessions with Bill Evans and his recent Grammy-winning "Duets II" CD with an all-star cast: Lady Gaga, Michael Bublé, Amy Winehouse, John Mayer, k.d. lang, Aretha Franklin, Sheryl Crow, Willie Nelson, Queen Latifah, Norah Jones, Josh Groban, Natalie Cole, Andrea Bocelli, Faith Hill, Alejandro Sanz, Carrie Underwood, and Mariah Carey. Tony and his collaborators received the Grammy for "Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album" as well as the Grammy for "Best Pop Duo/Group Performance" for his duet, "Body and Soul" with Amy Winehouse.
UPDATED 11/11/17 - After years away from performing because of vocal cord issues, Steven is back with his new big band CD, The Way You Look Tonight a throwback to the Sinatra days of swinging arrangements of the standards.
Canadian vocalist Amy Cervini discusses her combining jazz and country music on her CD â??Jazz Countryâ?? and the fun she has with her female vocal trio Duchess and the different dynamic of singing with women vs. men.
TV, radio and film composer talks about working with Steve Allen, Peggy Lee, Carly Simon and others and writing for everything from soap operas to stage productions.
Jane Monheitâ??s longtime bassist, Neal Miner, has worked in many settings but especially enjoys playing with vocalists. His father, Bill Miner, was a jazz collector of the highest order. Neal discusses the influence Bill had on shaping his love of jazz and his desire to pursue a music career.
UPDATED 12/16/17 - Pianist Tardo Hammer discusses his work with Annie Ross, Jon Hendricks and others and his new CD, â??Simple Pleasures."
West End and UK theater actor, pianist, and vocalist Ben Stock talks about his many inspirations from Noel Coward and Tom Lehrer to John Coltrane and Artie Shaw!
UPDATED 12/23/17 - Bassist/composer David Finck discusses his collaborations with everyone from Tony Bennett and Aretha Franklin to Rosemary Clooney and Dizzy Gillespie. He sings occasionally too, which is shown to advantage on his newest CD â??Low Standards."
Filmmaker and design consultant discusses the influence his grandparents, design icons Charles and Ray Eames, have had on his work.
Tenor sax great Scott Hamilton discusses his long career and his perspective as an American jazz musician living in Europe.
Composer/arranger/pianist talks about writing "Here's to Life" for the classic Shirley Horn recording, as well as his pop hits for Barry Manilow ("Copacabana") and others.
Banjoist Bela Fleck has collaborated with the top musicians in every style of music and has the 16 Grammys to prove it.
UPDATED 10/28/17 - Part 2 of 2: Clarinetist/saxophonist, Ken Peplowski had his first professional gig when still in elementary school and went on to play with everyone from Marianne Faithfull and Leon Redbone to Peggy Lee and Woody Allen. BBC2 says, â??Ken Peplowski is arguably the greatest living jazz clarinetist.â??
UPDATED 10/21/17 - Part 1 of 2: Clarinetist/saxophonist, Ken Peplowski had his first professional gig when still in elementary school and went on to play with everyone from Marianne Faithfull and Leon Redbone to Peggy Lee and Woody Allen. BBC2 says, â??Ken Peplowski is arguably the greatest living jazz clarinetist.â??
UPDATED 11/4/17 - From child prodigy as a classical pianist to his own Dixieland band as an eight year old to the musician Yehudi Menuhin calls â??one of the finest pianists I have ever had the pleasure of performing with."
Chicago saxophonist talks about working with Count Basie and Earl Hines and performs with Judy onstage for â??Jazz Inspired from Kiawah Island.â??
88 years young, Marilyn performs with the energy a 40-year-old would envy and a talent that Johnny Carson honored a record 70 times on his "Tonight Show."
British classical pianist Alisdair Hogarth discusses his solo playing, accompanying vocalists and how jazz has changed the way he listen and practices. Judy recorded this conversation in London.
Vocalist Hilary Gardner discusses her debut CD celebrating New York, "A Great City" and her vocal trio "Duchess."
Trombonist Clark Gayton discusses his work with everyone from Basie and Ray Charles to Rihanna and Sting.
Education activist and Professor of History and African American Studies at Fordham University, Mark Naison, discusses the history and cultural significance of jazz.
From Michael Brecker to Madeleine Peyroux, to his recent work as James Taylor's "One Man Band", organist/pianist Larry Goldings discusses embracing whatever role he plays in an ensemble and discovering the best way to realize the best music possible.
Canadian saxophonist Grant Stewart discusses his new CD â??Trioâ?? and his using the unusual instrumentation of sax, bass and drums.
Minneapolis based singer talks with Judy about her influences from Lambert Hendricks and Ross to the Beatles and to Django Reinhardt, whose music inspired her latest CD, â??All The Cats."
Singer and Broadway performer Jessica Molaskey talks about her work with husband John Pizzarelli and her CD tribute to Peggy Lee.
Violinist Andy Stein talks about playing music from classical to Western Swing to writing an opera with Garrison Keillor and how jazz inspires it all.
Pianist Ehud Asherie was born in Isreal, spent his early years in Italy and now lives in the States. He brings an international perspective as well as wide musical knowledge to his jazz playing. Judy and Ehud discuss his broad range of influences including Orson Welles whom he considers a major source of inspiration.
British conductor/arranger discusses his project to restore the scores of the classic Hollywood musicals from the 30's and 40's, most of which were lost or destroyed, and his work with Kevin Spacey on "Beyond the Sea", Spacey's biopic on Bobby Darin.
Opera star Renee Fleming talks about singing jazz in college and her jazz CD, Haunted Heart.
Painter discusses his father lyricist Richard Adler ("Pajama Game" and "Damn Yankees") and his own choice to take his rich musical background as inspiration for a life as a painter rather than a musician.
British saxophonist/composer uses poetry and literature to inspire his jazz compositions. Alan talks about his work with everyone from Van Morrison and Jamie Cullum to Bjork and Sting.
Composer and performer Michael Bacon discusses what makes a great film composer and how his own work draws on his interest in many styles of music, including his work with brother Kevin, and their band "The Bacon Brothers."
Betty Comden was one-half of the musical-comedy duo Comden and Green, who provided lyrics, libretti, and screenplays to some of the most beloved and successful Hollywood musicals and Broadway shows of the mid-20th century, from "Singinâ?? In the Rain" to "On The Town," which was recently revived on Broadway. Judy interviewed the late Betty Comden in 2000 but the show was never broadcast. Weâ??re happy to bring it to you now!
Producer/pianist/vocalist talks about the effect Hurricane Katrina has had on his life and music and the inspiration heâ??s gotten from his temporary home in NYC.
Jazz vocal great, Mark Murphy discusses his inspirations and the advice he give to young singers: listen to drummers to improve scat singing.
One-half of the magic duo Penn & Teller, Penn Jillette discusses his bass playing during the pre-show of his Vegas act, and how jazz has changed his life.
Australian documentary filmmaker and jazz singer discusses her film "Intangible Asset Number 82", a film about one musician's journey to find the Korean musician who has inspired him, a drummer designated by Korea as "Intangible Asset Number 82".
Son of pianist Cy Walter, Mark Walter talks about bringing awareness of his father's great musical legacy.
Drummer, vibes and piano are the instruments of multi-talented musician John Cocuzzi, who discusses the inspiration he's gotten from his father, and how playing each of these instruments influences the other.
With his group The Lone Sharks, Gene Casey carries on the tradition of Western Swing, roots music and old style rock and roll. He discusses the continuing appeal of this music and his soundtrack writing for â??Justifiedâ??, â??Sons of Anarchyâ?? and â??The Killing Seasonâ??.
British bassist Dave Green discusses his work with everyone from Colman Hawkins to Charlie Watts.
British writer/TV producer/theater critic Ruth Leon discusses her position as program director for Londonâ??s elegant cabaret venue, Le Crazy Coqs at the Brasserie Zedel, and why this room is thriving, when similar venues are closing in NYC.
New Orleans drummers Shannon Powell and Herlin Riley discuss their music and perform onstage with guest pianist Mark Shane, at the Ascona Jazz Festival in Switzerland.
Bassist (played with Sinatra and Madonna) and Broadway musical coordinator, John Miller, discusses his first feature CD under his own name featuring his favorite Broadway tunes.
British jazz vocalist Jacqui Dankworth came to jazz after pursuing a theatre career, performing everywhere from the Royal Shakespeare Company to the West End. Jacqui talks about the advantages and challenges of having two well-known parents, Dame Cleo Lane and Sir John Dankworth.
New Orleans drummer Gerald French joins Judy onstage at the 2013 Ascona Jazz Festival in Switzerland to discuss his passion for the music of his hometown and desire to carry on the NOLA tradition in playing the music and having respect for its history.
Director Tim Johnson, of DreamWorks Animation, talks about his feature film, "Over the Hedge" and the importance of music in animation.
In celebration of the last season of â??Mad Men," we revisit Judyâ??s conversation with Bryan Batt who played the character of Sal Ramano, the closeted gay art director for the Sterling Cooper Agency on that great series.
Music writer/biographer James Gavin discusses his passion for jazz and his bios on Chet Baker, Lena Horne and the recently released Peggy Lee bio â??Is That All There Is?â??
Saxophonist Harry Allen discusses growing up playing accordian and how that much-ridiculed instrument helped him learn jazz.
Pianist/composer/activist Fred Hersch is one of the few musicians who feels equally comfortable with classical music and jazz, and discussed how he negotiates his way between these two worlds and uses each to inspire the other. Fred has also been living with HIV/AIDS for more than 25 years and talked about his work in raising awareness and funds throughout his own struggle with the virus.
New Orleans bassist Roland Guerin and Judy met and recorded their conversation and played on stage at the 2013 Ascona Jazz Festival in Switzerland, where they discussed Rolandâ??s New Orleans roots and favorite jazz.
Bassist Jay Leonhart starting playing multiple instruments as a child and by his early teens had his own TV show with his banjo-playing brother Bill. Leonhart eventually found his home on the bass, but kept the variety going with collaborations with everyone from Judy Garland and Carly Simon to Sinatra and Sting.
Pianist/singer Champian Fulton talks about the advantages of starting a music career outside of L.A. or NY and how her fatherâ??s taste in music has influenced her since before her birth. Hint: He held headphones up to her mamaâ??s baby bump. Baby Bud Powell, anyone?
Jazz pianist/vocalist Larry King discusses his many musical influences from Bill Evans to Ella Fitzgerald and how living and working in Paris has enhanced his creativity.
Judy talks with vocalist Maud Hixson about her new CD â??Donâ??t Let A Good Thing Get Awayâ?? and its focus on the compositions on Mickey Leonard.
Multi-Emmy and Grammy winner, composer/pianist Mike Renzi discusses his work as Music Director for Sesame Street, Mel Torm�©, Peggy Lee, Liza and numerous others and reveals what continues to thrill and inspire him about jazz.
Trumpeter Duke Heitger isnâ??t a native New Orleanean, but has lived there many years and talked with Judy about the challenges and advantages of a career in this most musical of cities, when you arenâ??t a native. Recorded onstage at the Ascona Jazz Festival in Switzerland.
Tony Award winning director/lyricist Richard Maltby discusses his Fats Waller inspired play â??Ainâ??t Misbehavinâ??â??, his screenwriting, and how jazz influences everything he creates.
German boogie-woogie pianist Axel Zwingenberger and American vocalist Lila Ammons (opera singer and granddaughter of pianist Albert and niece of saxophonist Gene) talk about working together, in spite of their very different cultural and musical backgrounds.
Catherine has enjoyed a long career as a back up singer with everyone from David Bowie to Jackson Browne but is now focusing on the music of her father, Luis Russell, who was music director for Louis Armstrong and led his own bands in the 20â?²s and 30â?²s. Catherine discusses her love of New Orleans music and early jazz and what it means to come to this music at this stage of her career.
Guitarist/vocalist Matt Munisteri talks about drawing on jazz and western swing for his unique approach to playing and composing.
We revisit Judyâ??s conversation with the late Skitch Henderson about his Hollywood years with Bing Crosby and Sinatra and his long career with the NBC Orchestra and the Tonight Show.
Pianist Conal Fowkes discusses his long participation in Woody Allenâ??s jazz band and his recent part doing the vocals and piano work of the Cole Porter character in Woodyâ??s film Midnight in Paris.
Composer/pianist/vocalist, Deanna Witkowski, started as a classical pianist and now specializes in jazz, Brazilian, afro-cuban and sacred music.
Film producer (â??Boys Donâ??t Cryâ??) discusses his passion for jazz and the important role music plays in the pacing and mood of a film.
Classical and jazz guitarist Gene Bertoncini discusses how both approaches influence his playing and continue to inspire his recording projects.
Jazz pianist discusses his years playing with Jim Cullumâ??s Band on the radio show â??Live From the Landingâ?? and his thoughts on being a great ensemble player.
Musician and early jazz scholar Vince Giordano fell in love with 20's and 30's jazz at an early age and carries on the tradition performing with his band "The Nighthawks." Vince discusses bringing this music to a broader audience and especially the importance of young people hearing jazz live.
Canadian singer takes a straightforward, swinging approach to the Standards. Judy talks with Susie and her guitarist Jordan Officer on stage at the Ascona Jazz Festival in Switzerland about their somewhat retro approach to jazz and how that interest developed.
Recorded onstage at the Ascona Jazz Festival in Switzerland, vocalist/TV host China Moses discusses the advantages and challenges of having Dee Dee Bridgewater as a mom and growing up in France and America.
Pianist/vocalist Billy Stritch is that rare performer who is a great musician and great entertainer. Heâ??s learned from the best, with long associations with Liza Minnelli and Marilyn Maye, two gals who know a thing or two about winning over an audience.
In her new book "The Insanity Hoax" Schlesinger lays siege to the popular notion that to be truly creative, a person must be mentally unbalanced. A PhD psychologist and a jazz critic, Schlesinger discusses myths about Charlie Parker, Chet Baker and other jazz musicians presumed to have been insane to some degree. Judy and Judith discuss the psychology of genius and Judith's fascinating and multi-faceted career.
Broadway star Ken Page (Ainâ??t Misbehavinâ??, Cats) and movie actor (Dreamgirls) talks about the way jazz used to influence stage performers and how he misses that influence in many performers today.
NEA Jazz Master winner, legendary drummer Chico Hamilton discusses starting the West Coast jazz sound in the early years of his career, his appearance in the film classic â??Sweet Smell of Successâ?? and why so many young musicians today canâ??t swing.
Trumpeter Warren Vaché discusses the realization of his life-long dream to play with strings, what makes a perfect jazz festival, and how to accompany a singer.
Jazz pianist Monte Alexander talks about how growing up in Jamaica influenced his music as well as his love of American Westerns and country music.
Film maker â??Hueyâ?? discusses his documentary about the late pianist Marian McPartland, which is part of his series of films about fascinating older artists.
We revisit Judy's conversation with Irish classical pianist John O'Conor, recorded at Steinway Hall in NYC and where she talked him into performing some jazz-inspired classical pieces on one of the many great Steinway grands sitting nearby.
Singer Sandy Stewart discusses her most recent CD with her son, pianist Bill Charlap, and the special musical connection they share.
Raiders of the Lost Arc star discusses growing up with jazz, her love for Fats Waller and how jazz influences her acting choices.
Bassist Pat Oâ??Leary has helped some of the best musicians in jazz swing like mad: Diana Krall, Bob Dorough, Lionel Hampton, Mel Lewis and others. Oâ??Leary is also a composer and passionate teacher and talked to Judy about a fascinating project in Serbia where he combined his talents, working with students and professionals to present his arrangements of Serbian folk songs as reborn jazz orchestrations.
Italian pianist is equally smitten with jazz of the Barry Harris/Tommy Flanagan era and the great stride pianists who came before them. Rossano Sportiello, while extensively trained in classical music, loves jazz and enjoys combining the two.
Drummer Dave Tull has provided rhythm for everyone from Chuck Magione and Michael Buble, to Jack Sheldon and Family Guy creator Seth McFarlane. While Dave has also occasionally sung a tune or two with these groups and others, he has recently focused on performing his own beautiful melodies and often hilarious lyrics. Dave is a favorite among jazz musicians, who relish his spot on laments of the sometimes ridiculous challenges jazz musicians face.
Singer/pianist Geoffrey Tozer talks about his kooky, fun-loving radio show â??The Sly Crooner of Swanktownâ?? and shares his thoughts on getting more swank in the world.
Pianist Bill Charlap (Part 2) discusses the influence his musician parents have had on his jazz and his continuing love for the Great American Standards.
Pianist Bill Charlap (Part 1) discusses the influence his musician parents have had on his jazz and his continuing love for the Great American Standards.
We revisit Judy's conversation from 2000 (one of her first for Jazz Inspired) with author and movie critic Leonard Maltin where he discusses his favorite jazz, his own piano playing and his four-hand duet with Judy on Entertainment Tonight.
We revisit Judy's conversation with the late, much-admired pianist John Bunch, where he discusses the changes in the jazz world throughout his long career, and his work with Tony Bennett, Benny Goodman and other jazz giants.
British film maker, Hannah Rothschild, explores the extraordinary life of her great-aunt Pannonica de Koenigswarter, (close friend of Thelonius Monk and other jazz greats) who supported bebop long before it was appreciated by the general public.
Brazilian cornetist Marcelo Teixeira Da Costa is the Artistic Director of Brazilâ??s largest jazz festival, the I LOVE JAZZ Festival, a celebration mounted in 3 different cities throughout the country, celebrating not the music of Jobim or other bassa or samba masters, but the classic American jazz of Louis Armstrong and other greats of the early years of jazz.
Jazz pianist Mark Shane discusses his work for movie soundtracks and playing with jazz greats Doc Cheatham, Buck Clayton, Ruby Braff and others.
We revisit my 2012 conversation with filmmaker/Director JP Lipa about his PBS Christmas specials â??Heirloom Mealsâ?? and his use of jazz throughout (including my appearance singing a swinging â??Winter Wonderlandâ??) and his backstage filming of Michael Jackson during preparation for Michaelâ??s last tour.
UPDATED 1/13/2018 - Voice actor/singer Rachael MacFarlane discusses her role as â??Haleyâ?? on American Dad and other characters on Family Guy, working with her brother Seth, and her debut jazz CD Haley Sings, celebrating her characterâ??s (and her own) love for jazz.
We revisit my conversation with magician, actor and side-show specialist Todd Robbins, one of the most unusual entertainers in the business. Todd discusses his musical work with Woody Allen, his passion for early jazz, and how he utilizes these interests in his magic shows.
Cabaret star Steve Ross was one of my early guests on Jazz Inspired and is not only a close pal but a frequent musical collaborator. We revisit this hilarious conversation (Steve's one of the funniest people I know) about his long career and how the greats, Cole Porter, Noel Coward and others, continue to inspire him.
We revisit my conversation with vocalist/saxophonist Curtis Stigers, where we discuss his former life as a pop musician (appearing on the soundtrack of "The Bodyguard") and contrast that to his present life as a jazz musician.
French singer Mina Agossi draws on opera, hip hop and jazz to create her unique approach to the Great American Songbook.
Author, educator and classical and jazz pianist Stuart Isacoff explains how the openness and improvisation of jazz has affected his writing and other creative endeavors.
"I think Iâ??m the only Chinese/American Big Band Leader in the country," says George Gee, and a more enthusiastic proponent of this music cannot be found. George discusses keeping this music alive and the great advice he got from his mentor Count Basie.
Trumpet man Wayne Bergeron is known for his amazing high notes and studio work, and making everyone else sound great. In Judy's 2007 discussion with Wayne he revealed what it was like to finally record under his own name and receive a Grammy nomination for his efforts.
Trombone virtuoso talks about the influence his trombone-playing father Bill Allred had on him growing up and what it takes to be a great player in every setting.
Even Simon Cowell was wowed by vocalist Melinda Doolittle, on the sixth season of American Idol, and although he said she should have won, she placed third in the competition. Melinda discusses what her music education and career as a back up singer brings to the solo career she enjoys now.
Interior designer and jazz vocalist Andrew Suvalski discusses combining two full-time careers and how the two inspire each other.
Chicago pianist Jon Weber talks about his jingle writing years, his love for every kind of jazz from the early days to the present, and what his recent move to NYC has done for his playing.
We revisit Judy's 2008 conversation with stage and screen star, John Lithgow, who talks about his love for classic jazz, recording a jazz-inspired childrenâ??s record, and how improvisational acting influences even the most scripted performance.
New Orleans painter talks about how growing up in the south and experiencing jazz has influenced his painting â?? from his â??Blue Dogâ?? portraits to his posters for â??Jazz Fest."
Tony Award winning actress Blythe Danner joins Judy on stage at the Tanglewood Jazz Festival and connects with her early jazz roots. Blythe was a jazz singer in college and discusses with Judy how jazz has continued to influence her acting career.
Jazz pianist/conductor talks about working with some of the great jazz vocalists of our time and his present gigs as musical director for Tony Bennett and Barbara Cook.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback and jazz pianist, discusses the important role jazz has played in his sports and musical life and the joy he gets from encouraging young boys (often against the pressure of their peers) to continue their piano pursuits, as well as their athletic adventures.
Great-great grandson of the founder of Steinway and Sons pianos discusses his long life in music, pianos and his unique perspective on what it takes to be the best.
Jazz composer talks about being the first musician to win a Grammy with a CD released exclusively on the internet and influences from stride piano to The Fifth Dimension.
Dancer/choreographer discusses the collaborations his Parsons Dance Company has had with various jazz greats.
Singer/songwriter talks about the influence her famous father E.L. Doctorow has had on her writing and how she marries jazz and folk music.
Cabaret singer/pianist discusses creating the off Broadway show â??Our Sinatraâ?? and what jazz has done to inspire and expand his performances.
Jazz composer/guitarist talks about the influence Bela Bartok and Bill Finnegan and others have had on his music.
Vocalist/arranger/pianist talks about his Lambert, Hendricks and Ross style vocal group and his many adventures working with Dame Edna.
Australian classical pianist Simon Tedeschi talks about his jazz piano pursuits, his particular love of stride piano and performing the music for the movie "Shine" at the tender age of 14.
Tony award winning actress talks about her hilarious turn as Ulla in "The Producers", learning about jazz through Mr. Rogers, and how she combines her Broadway roots and her love for jazz in her vocal performances
As the stepdaughter of famed dancer Irene Castle, Jean met many of the early jazz greats and continued jazz friendships throughout her life. Jean brought her knowledge and long history of loving jazz to her Academy Award Nominated documentary "A Great Day in Harlem, which has been recently released, on DVD.
Vocalist Manzoâ??s vocal influences range from Celia Cruz to Sarah Vaughan. A wide range of influences and her 5 octave range give her a powerful and unique sound.
Jazz pianist talks about his many collaborations with artists from Tom Wopat and Brain Stokes Mitchell to John Pizzarelli and Benny Golson and the challenge of finally recording his first CD under his own name.
Trombonist and seashellist Steve Turre, talks about his work in the Saturday Night Live Band and why so few musicians "swing" today.
Broadway composer Stephen Flaherty (â??Ragtimeâ??) discusses his evolution as a composer and how he draws on jazz for inspiration.
Conductor/composer David Berger recently turned his focus to the lesser known tunes of Harry Warren, and talked with Judy about why Warren inspires him, and why this great composer is less well-known than other contributors to the great American songbook.
British singer/pianist finds the jazz feel in the music of Cole Porter and Noel Coward and especially sees a jazz-like timing in the humor of both.
Producer Alan Sviridoff discusses his long creer combining music film and theater with such greats aas Ginger Rogers, Rosemary Clooney and the new George Clooney film â??Good Night and Good Luckâ??.
Peter Mintun, doesn't consider himself a jazz pianist, but rather a pianist specializing in jazz age tunes. Peter was smitten with 20's and 30's music from a young age, and now, after years of playing it, and befriending many of the composers and performers from this period, he's become an authority and archivist of this musical period and shared with me his thoughts on what makes this music so special and enduring.
Guitarist Howard Alden has been hailed as one of the greatest of his generation. Howard and Judy worked together in the early years of their careers and this conversation, their first in a series recorded on stage at the Ascona Jazz Festival in Switzerland, gave them a chance to play together again, and talk about Howard's experience teaching Sean Penn to play the guitar for Woody Allen's film Sweet and Lowdown.
Academy Award winning screenwriter (â??Philadelphiaâ??) Ron Nyswaner discusses the importance of music in all his movies, and how often his soundtracks act as another â??characterâ?? in his films.
Ragtime pianist and author discusses how popular music and jazz has influenced our history and culture.
Tenor Ben Heppner talks about his love for jazz and tries to get Judy to sing an Ella and Louie style duet!
Jazz and classical pianist and educator Rosenthal discusses his love of the great jazz pianists, but especially his joy in introducing his two sons to the music and how he brings inspiration into their lives every day.
Cellist Jay Schulman discusses the compositional and cello work of his father Alan, with the NBC Orchestra, his own groups and how Alan brough a jazz swing feel to classical music.
Brazilian composer/pianist talks about what living in NYC has done for his music and his compositions based on the Brazilian musical style, choreno.
Australian violinist with a name as unique as his musical approach, discusses continuing the jazz tradition on violin while still performing country western and classical music.
Academy award winning director (The Lion in Winter) and editor (Dr. Strangelove) discusses working with jazz inspired film composers Nino Rota and John Barry.
Clarinetist and longtime member of Jim Cullumâ??s â??Live From the Landingâ?? show talks about growing up in a musical family and continuing the tradition by marrying a classical musician!
Tenor saxophonist discusses his work with the Center for Jazz Studies at Columbia University, his Coleman Hawkins-inspired playing and why he has a PHD in Political Science and not in music.
Saxophonist discusses his recent CD â??Stones Worldâ?? recorded while he toured with the Rolling Stones.
Suspense/horror novelist (Ghost Story) shares how jazz inspires him and compares collaborating on the best seller The Talisman with Stephen King, to playing jazz solos with another musician.
Arbors Records owner/producer Mat Domber talks about his unlikely entry into the music business and how he keeps swing music alive in a time of Lady Gaga and Justin Beeber.
Drummer and Artistic Director of the Ascona Jazz Festival talks about his passion for New Orleans and how he brings a bit of that energy to his festival on beautiful Lake Majiori, Switzerland.
Author and head of jazz studies at Columbia University talks about his book on the jazz writings of Ralph Ellison.
Jazz vocalist Saloff has an unusually broad range of music she performs and discusses the challenges that presents, but the advantages as well.
Singer/songwriter Natal reveals why 70's style activist songs, even done in a jazz style, are needed today more than ever. (2nd bio) Activist and folk singer reveals the journey sheâ??s taken to become a jazz vocalist, leaving the world of large record labels behind and going it along.
Singer/songwriter Bob Dorough talks about his enthusiastic embrace of life and creativity and what it takes to write with wit and swing in this age with little of either. Bob passed away in April 2018. We revisit Judy's 2007 conversation with Bob.
Twenty-year-old jazz violinist talks about why there arenâ??t more jazz musicians playing violin and how he was drawn to the music himself.
Italian jazz vocalist talks about what moving to America has done for her music and the way the great jazz musicians sheâ??s known have changed the way she hears music.
Jazz drummer discusses the importance of developing a future audience for jazz and his work bringing jazz to schools with his group Jazz Reach.
British saxophonist discusses his new CD â??The Lyricâ?? and how important lyrics are to his own instrumental playing.
Jazz biographer talks about his books on Fred Astaire and Tommy Dorsey and their importance in the development of jazz.
Jazz pianist and Berkelee College of Music Professor Dave Frank discusses combining his poetry and music for a new kind of jazz experience. (2nd bio) Educator and jazz pianist talks about his belief that every musician can play jazz, even when they think they canâ??t and his books address that subject.
Italian jazz writer and producer discusses his involvement with the â??Umbria Jazz Festivalâ?? and the popularity of jazz in Italy.
Composer/trumpeter, Randy Sandke, talks about playing jazz from Louie Armstrong and Bix Beiderbeck to his own "Metatonal Music".
Saxophonist, Mike Hashim, talks about his big and small band work and how classical music has influenced jazz composers from the beginning.
Cabaret star discusses her first ever Christmas CD and how jazz and improvisation has influenced her cabaret work.