THE MUSICAL UNIVERSE OF PROFESSOR HURST: Recent Episodes
Craig W Hurst
Discussion of what is of interest to me in the vast universe of music highlighting artists, composers and various musical styles.
Jon Beshay is firmly entrenched in the NYC jazz scene. He leads his own groups, writes for other bands and also creates music for theater pieces. We have a great talk about his work and the New York scene. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Holly has a new album out entitled Sweet Decline. We have a great discussion about her music, and the healing power of music. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Lyle is based in Asheville, North Carolina, a rich center of music and creative life. Lyle's music draws upon his classical training and his love of jazz and traditional Appalachian music. You will not want to miss this episode.
Camden West is a classically trained guitarist and singer songwriter. He comes to us with a deep artistic vision and has much to say as a songwriter.
Aubrey Johnson is a wonderful jazz musician and educator. She has performed with Bobby McFerrin and her uncle, the late Lyle Mays. A graduate of the New England Conservatory, she is currently active in New York as a performer at numerous jazz clubs. You will not want to miss this episode as Aubrey shares with us great insights into being a musician!!!!
Moonsville Collective is a Southern California bred folk band that just released their latest album A HUNDRED HIGHWAYS. Corey Adams leader of the band and I have a great discussion about folk and string band music and its lasting appeal. You will not want to miss this interview!!!!
Big Harp George has an ecyclopedic knowledge of Blues Harp playing and players!!! The discussion we have will delight, entertain and INFORM you. You will not want to miss this episode or Big Harp George's new album coming May 15, Cooking With Gas.
Lori has a new album out entitled WHEN THE MORNING COMES. We have a really good discussion about songs on the album and Lori's process for creating and writing songs. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!!
Hannah Gill possesses one of the most ebullient and upbeat musical personalities I've met. Her work with exudes a toe-tapping, Lindy Hopping good time. You will enjoy the wonderful discussion I have with Hannah about her career and the music she makes!!!!!
As the saying goes, Naama knows how to turn a phrase. She is wonderful interpreter of standards from the Great American Songbook. Her upcoming new album Wild Is Love, is a super collection addressing the attraction, bliss, heartbreak and truth about LOVE!!! You will not want to miss the interview I have with Naama!!!
Ava Swan is a unique voice on the American music scene. Her style of music draws from a number of sources and she writes with a very expressive voice. We have a great discussion about her songwriting and her work in the music world.
Being a fellow Mid-westerner, Leslie and I had a lot to talk about, especially the jazz scene in the Minneapolis area. We also talked about Leslie's wonderful voice, her recordings and approach to standards from the The Great American Songbook. We had a lot of fun, and you will too listening to this episode!!!!
Pianist Caili O'Doherty is prolific composer, band leader and educator. She brings very interesting insight into her craft. You will not want to miss what she has to say in our wonderful discussion.
What is happening with jazz "down under?" Make sure and listen to episode 181 and my interview with Anton Delecca to find out. We have a great discussion about the jazz scene in Australia and specifically Melbourne. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Dave Baron is a busy in demand bassist in the New York jazz scene. We have a wonderful discussion about his work and forthcoming album.
Jake is a fascinating person to talk to. He is very much into jazz but also modern avant garde music as well. I had a lot of fun picking his creative mind and us talking about music and filling space with sound. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Nina De Vitry is a creative artist with a varied palette of musical resources available to her. On her newest recording, What You Feel is Real, she draws from the musical worlds of R and B, Jazz and Country music to create a wonderfully diverse and expressive array of highly evocative music. We have a great discussion about her music making that you will not want to miss!!!!
The Kennedys are a wonderful couple collaborating on making some wonderful music. Both are experienced veteran performers and have a wealth of background to share. You will not want to miss this episode.
Spencer LaJoye's music is exceedingly moving on both a lyrical and musical level. We have a wonderful discussion about their music making and Spencer's newest album Shadow Puppets to be released on February 16, 2024.
Annie Moscow just released her SIXTH studio album entitled Land of Dreams. We have a wonderful discussion about her songs, her creative process and about her experiences in music. This is an episode you will not want to miss!!!!
Charlotte Morris' newest album Wild Child contains some excellent songwriting with tuneful melodies and great lyrics. We have a great discussion about the craft of songwriting and how that craft is cultivated.
Caroline Cotter has been an international traveler who now resides near Acadia National Park in Maine. Her music is full of positive images, self care and a "keep going upward" theme to life. We have a great discussion about the cathartic nature of her music and how it has helped her and others.
Laxton's latest self titled album Mikhail Laxton was released in August of 2023. We have a great conversation about the album, Mikhail's background and inspiration for the songs he writes and sings.
Julian Talamantez Brolaski's newest album It's Okay Honey, is an ode to good old country music like the Carter Family and Hank Williams Sr.
You will not want to miss this episode where Julian and I talk country music, yodeling, and poetry!!!!
To call Billy Kilson's discography and resume impressive would be an understatement. He has played with numerous remarkable musicians during his career. In addition to playing Billy also serves on the faculty at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. His insight's into drumming and teaching are valuable information, and available here!!! You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Doug Albrechts IS the band Little Falls Trophy. Other than drums, he plays ALL the instruments, sings and writes the songs for the band's newest album Dutch Motel. We have a great discussion about music that you will not want to miss!!
Randy Napoleon has a wonderful career as a jazz guitarist. Having been a sideman with Freddie Cole, leading his own groups and now enabling others as an educator at Michigan State University, Randy has a wealth of knowledge from his experience to share. You will NOT want to miss this episode!!!!
Danny Jonokuchi is a bi-coastal musician who wears many different hats in the music world and wears them WELL!!! We have a great discussion about music, classic Lindy-Hop swing and other of his projects especially his album Voices, released this past August which features the talents of his big band and arrangements supporting the vocal artistry of eleven different singers!!!
Margherita Fava comes from a rich musical background. Her love of jazz is evident in her performing and her newest album entitled TATATU. We have a wonderful discussion about her newest album, playing standards and the musical scene where she lives and works.
Lucy is an amazing singer who appears with numerous bands and other artist in New York. She presents songs that she hope will unify people. I loved her response to my question of how do you choose a standard to sing (you will have to listen to the podcast to find out the answer!!!!)
Erik Sanden of the band Buttercup is a man on a mission. The band creates artistic, expressive and thought provoking music, while also having a great deal of fun in their music making. Erik and I have a wonderful discussion that you will not want to miss!!!!!
Dave is a busy performer playing with a number of New York City big bands and recording with the likes of Dave Douglas. We have a great discussion (as only two trumpet players could do) and you will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Mike Thomas' most recent release Diamonds is a wonderful collection of songs close to Mike's heart. We have a wonderful discussion about the new album, his songwriting craft and music making. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Born in Scotland, Tony Rose now lives and works in the Czech Republic and Germany. He has an extensive resume of work as an accomplished singer, songwriter and band leader. We have a first rate talk about his career and insights he has about music and songwriting. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Quinsin Nachoff has has carved out a unique career exploring the connection between the twin worlds of jazz and classical music, in a city that is equally renowned for both. His work as a saxophonist and composer is exemplary and noteworthy. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Joe Nosek has been leading or co-leading blues bands for over twenty years. His current band The Cash Box Kings he co-leads with Oscar Wilson, is burning up with hot, fun, old school Chicago Blues!! The Cash Box Kings recently released their eleventh album OSCAR'S MOTEL which we discuss in Joe's interview. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Sully Bright is in his last year at Belmont University in Nashville majoring in songwriting. He is however not waiting until after he gets his degree to put out his first album. Sully's first album Darling Wake Up is set for release in just three days. We have a great chat about the songs on the new album, and Sully's craft of songwriting. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
In addition to touring with Michael Buble, Zach Finnigan is a busy musician, composer, band leader and entrepreneur. He has much interesting experiences and ideas to share with us and you will not want to miss this episode!!
Lex Korten is one busy working musician. A younger voice on the New York music scene, Lex performs with many notable musicians and bands. He is a creative and innovative composer and leads his own groups as well. He shares wonderful insights with us about music making and the New York scene.
There is a fresh new voice in Nashville, and her name is Summerlyn Powers!! Her soon to be released EP, THE HIVE, contains great songs full of heartfelt lyrics and wonderful melodies!! We have a great discussion about her songwriting craft and of course, her new EP. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Matt is a versatile acoustic and electric bass player performing with numerous Jazz groups/musicians and also in the realm of Blues, R and B and Pop music. His insights into his professional music world offer a wealth of knowledge for those aspiring to become professional musicians.
Sam is not only one of the extraordinary young band leaders on the New York scene today he is also a marvelous trombonist, composer and arranger. Sam shares many good insights into the music scene in New York today and the challenges and rewards of leading jazz ensembles in the twenty-first century!
Jacob is a young man from St. Louis who is new and thriving on the New York jazz scene. He has performed with the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra and numerous other groups.
Brandon is a busy guy playing with a number of different bands and different styles of improvised music. He has tremendous insight and has some inventive ideas using technology and AI in music. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Rachel Eckroth is a jazz musician who also performs in many styles with others adjunct to jazz. Her latest release ONE is a solo recording on which some of the pieces were improvised while in the studio. Rachel has much musical insight to offer and you will not want to miss this episode!!!
Stanley Ruinov who hails from Seattle, Washington is a relative newcomer to the New York City jazz scene. He none the less has had some wonderful experiences on both coasts of the United States and has wonderful insights to share. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Florencia Rusinol of the band Florencia and The Feeling, is a talented vocalist and songwriter. Her band Florencia and The Feeling is wonderfully fun, Pop/Rock/R and B band whose music has an infectious danceability and an upbeat spirit. You will enjoy hearing what Florencia has to say about her music!
Ryan is engaged with several different jazz ensembles incorporating different styles and unique sounds. We have a great discussion about his work and direction he is taking music!!!
I interviewed Meghan and Dave while they were on the road. Our interview was full of lots of insights about the music business, touring, music styles and labels and the creative process of writing songs. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Julia is currently touring with Sam Smith. She was currently in England having just crossed over the channel from mainland Europe. Julia is also part of the trio Sonica with Nicole Zuratis and Thana Alexa whom have been previous guests on my show.
Nathan Borton is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at The University of Northern Colorado. Prior to his dive into academia, Nathan has played with numerous notable musicians and also recorded his own album. In our discussion Nathan offered wonderful insights into working as a music professional in the twenty-first century. You will not want to miss this episode.
Andrew Duncanson has been singing the Blues for over two decades and winning awards and recognition for his work. His bands, The Kilbourne Alley Blues Band and The Dig Three are creating some of the most excellent Blues coming out of the State of Illinois today. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
As a vocalist, Thana's vision for her instrument is unique. The music on her albums and with her collabortive group Sonica are as thought provoking as they are inventive and beautiful. Thana has much to share with us about her experiences as a professional musician. You will not want to miss this episode!
Luca Sataniello has built an impressive resume as a jazz drummer having performed with a "Who's Who" of jazz luminaries. He brings a wealth of insight and information to our discussion about music and being a jazz musician in the twenty-first century. You will not want to miss this episode!
Jon Thomas is an intriguing young jazz pianist on the New York scene. We have a great discussion about jazz and the various projects he is involved. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Originally from Appleton, Wisconsin, Gerry Hundt has made his mark on the Chicago blues scene. He has been a one man band and his latest venture is with the band The Dig 3. Gerry and I have a great discussion about the Blues and the Blues scene in Chicago, Central Illinois and the Midwestern United States.
Anthony has a new album dropping in June entitled Words From My Horn. We have a wonderful discussion about this debut album and about jazz and music in general. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Erica Seguine is a composer and arranger of international renown. She has written for numerous jazz big bands including her own Erica Seguine/Shon Baker Orchestra. The newest album by this group had just dropped days before our interview and we explore Erica's insights into her music and writing for the modern jazz orchestra.
In many ways Mae Simpson is a musical chameleon performing a very soulful ballad followed by a hard rockin' mover and shaker. She brings much to the table with her experience and has much to share about music making in the Midwestern United States. If Joe-Bob Briggs were here, he'd say "Check 'er Out!!"
Knox Barber is a young bassist on the New York scene. He has much to share about his career that
Martin Lang is a leading player in the post-war amplified Blues style, honed over twenty-five years behind the legendary Chicago Bluesman Taildragger. Lang has been part of the Chicago Blues scene since the 1990's and has a fortune in experience and insight about the music to share. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Derrick Procell has been in music business for over three decades. He leads his own band that performs his original compositions AND he writes for several other bands as well. He has a super new album out entitled HELLO MOJO!! We have a great discussion about his newest album and other projects he is involved. Derrick's wealth of experience in the music business and what he has to share about The Blues makes Episode 133 a MUST LISTEN!!!
Brian is very active and in demand on the Jazz/Commercial music scene in New York, and can be heard on everything ranging from TV and film soundtracks to jazz and big band recordings, the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Broadway shows, and regularly performs in clubs all over NYC and the world. He has a WEALTH of experience and information to offer. YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS THIS EPISODE!!!!!
Ben's experiences are vast. He is a composer, a noted jazz bassist, educator and has many angles on the music business. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Mick has a HUGE mind when it comes to the Blues and he is a wonderful practitioner of the music both in his songwriting and performing. His wealth of information about the music and players is a delight for me to share with you--so DON'T miss episode 130!!!
Tyshawn Sorey is a deep well of knowledgeable musical thought and inspiration. You will not want to miss the discussion he and I have on this episode!!
Mark Ferber is a widely experienced jazz drummer having played with many well known musicians and groups. Based in Los Angeles, Ferber is also a collegiate level educator as well as busy professional musician. His experience brings a lot of good discussion about music and being a musician. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Rachel McIntyre Smith is an up and coming country artist from Tennessee!!! Her newest recording is called Glory Daze and contains a series of thought provoking songs exploring one's past and wondering about the future. She was delightful to interview and you will not want to miss what she has to say!!!!
Shawn Amos has a very interesting background. Now living in Texas he grew up in Hollywood. He also found himself shifting from a singer/songwriter to performing the Blues. His story is one that you will not want to miss as it is his story that is his music!!!!
The Altered Five Blues Band is SMOKIN' HOT!!!!! I knew it the second I heard them open up at the 2022 Rotary Blues Festival this past August. I was in the second row and this band blew me away. As soon as their set was over I was contacting their management to get them as guests on my show. This is an episode you will not want to miss, especially if you love the BLUES!!!!!
Carl Maraghi is a very much in demand player. Among many different projects he is the Baritone Saxophonist in the Christian McBride Big Band! His experiences are wonderful to hear about and he has much wisdom to learn from. You will not want to miss this episode!
Andrew Hadro is an exceptionally well informed musician especially when it comes to the Baritone and Bass Saxophones (and Contra Bass Clarinet, while we're at it). His expertise about the instruments as well as his extremely well-honed craft as a musician creates an excellent discussion you will not want to miss.
Mariel Bildsten is a very busy sideperson in New York City performing and recording with numerous big band and combos. With her experience as a performer, leader, and educator, Mariel has a wealth of information to share!!! You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Nashville based Celtic/folk group The Deer's Cry released their newest album Heal the Heart in 2022. Karen Ballew plays harp, sings lead vocals and writes for the group. We have a wonderful discussion about Celtic music in Nashville and learn there is a lot of music styles in Nashville going on other than Country music!!! We also talk about her work with the choral groups ANUNA, The Preludio Choir and Nashville's Portara Ensemble.
Chris Glassman has won a ton of awards for his musicianship. That he plays awesome bebop on bass trombone is another great asset to his artistry. Chris brings to our discussion a wealth of knowledge and experience. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Nick had just come off the road touring with Michael Buble when we did this interview. He brings a wealth of experience from the professional music world and his insights are certainly worth a listen!!! You will not want to miss this episode!
Nicole is the vocalist with the Birdland Big Band. In addition to her own recordings, she has recorded Sonica with collaborators Thana Alexa and Julia Adamy. Her wealth of professional experience brings wonderful element to our discussion. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Julian Taylor's songwriting is informed by many experiences. His cultural heritage, his previous bands and various styles explored by those bands all have contributed to revealing the unadulterated Julian Taylor. His songs are emotionally charged, thought provoking and intellectually stimulating. You should check out his new album Beyond the Reservoir and definitely not miss this episode!! It is a great way to close out 2022!!!!!
Myra Melford is a multi-faceted composer, jazz pianist and band leader. Her wealth of experience and breadth of knowledge make for an excellent discussion of music and music making. You will not want to miss this episode.
Altin is a MONSTER trombone player. We have a great time discussing life on the road (he talked with me on a day off in Montreal while on tour with Michael Buble), as well as playing great jazz on the trombone, playing with his frequent collaborator bass trombonist Chris Glassman and the legacy of Jay Jay Johnson and Kai Winding.
Scott's songs are an interesting mix of mental imagery of the beauty of nature and the ebb and flow of human emotions. We have a great discussion about how he crafts his songs and the inspiration for them from his new album Let It All Lay Bare. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Zach is a busy drummer in New York. He is called upon to play with numerous jazz artists on club dates and recordings. Zach is also a committed educator working in many of the city's jazz education programs. His wealth of experience leads us to have an excellent discussion about jazz, the New York jazz scene and music making in general. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Nick Moss has been singing and playing the blues for over twenty years and he certainly has a handle on doin' it Chicago Style!!! You will not want to miss this great interview with this great singer and guitarist!!!
Ben is a multi-faceted musician. He has studied music in both classical and jazz traditions. He has been a working musician in New York for twenty years and brings a wealth of knowledge for those of us who listen. His work with strings is an exciting sound coupled with his woodwind playing whether he is playing saxophone or clarinet!!
Steven possesses a vast array of knowledge about writing for the contemporary jazz big band. His latest album with the Generation Gap Jazz Orchestra is up for Grammy consideration!!! You will not want to miss this episode.
Donald Edwards has been a sideman and led sessions with some of the most respected and highly regarded jazz musicians. We have a great discussion about his career in performing and recording. This is an episode you will not want to miss!!!!
Warden and Company is a wonderful musical group. The leader Seth Warden and I have a great discussion about song writing and the band Warden and Company.
Lew is from Paducah, Kentucky and has much to tell us about the Blues scene in the mid-South of the United States. Lew's story is an interesting one. Hear about how a career as a television news reporter changed to a career as a full time Blues musician. You will not want to miss episdoe 107!!!
Caroline Davis is a phenomenal musician who performs in a number of genres of music. We have a wonderful discussion about music in general, her work in jazz, improvisational music extant from jazz, R and B and folk music. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Brett's newest album is entitled Late Bloomer. We have a great conversation about his songwriting, his creative process and the stories behind many of the songs on his new album.
From his twenty plus years of experience in New York City, Patrick has wonderful insights into working as a professional musician in the 21st century. We have a wonderful talk about music, other musicians he has worked with and his suggestions for those looking to become professional musicians. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Erin is at the beginning of what will very likely blossom into a great career in music. Originally from Connecticut, Erin moved to Nashville, earned a degree from Belmont University and is setting about building a fan base with the release of four singles and videos. Erin is a charming young woman and you are sure to enjoy the discussion I have with her about her career.
Ken and I have a mind opening discussion about music and his work incorporating extended techniques in musical improvisation. The discussion I had with Ken inspired me to learn more about avant-garde jazz and you will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Jess Jocoy is an up and coming artist in Nashville. With a beautiful voice and lyrics that will appeal to the thinking person with their depth of meaning, Jess is an artist you should definitely get to know. We have a wonderful discussion you will enjoy. So, listen in!!!!
Hailey and I have a wonderful conversation about interpreting the Great American Songbook and her approaches to making standards sound fresh and new. We also discuss jazz and jazz education in what is a great dialog about music and teaching!!
Ashley Pezzotti is the vocalist with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Wynton Marsalis. Ashley and I have a wonderful discussion about her performing and recording career in New York and in particular her performing with the LCJO!!
Salim has been a professional singer/songwriter and producer for better than two decades. He offers an insightful look into his craft of songwriting and includes some wonderful anecdotes about his work in the music business.
Doriana Spurrell is an up and coming singer/songwriter. Currently a student at Emerson College in Boston, Spurrell releases her new EP Forward TODAY!!!
Roomful of Teeth is an innovative vocal ensemble that draws upon a variety of vocal techniques to create music that is modern and pushing forward the sound of vocal music. Cameron Beauchamp and Brad Wells share a wonderful discussion about modern vocal artistry and the vocal band Roomful of Teeth. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Episode Ninety-five is definitely not one you will want to miss. Boris is not only a busy bass player, he is director of the Mingus Big Band, Mingus Dynasty, fronts his own trio and quartet, and has plays with Manhattan Transfer, and records on the Posi-Tone record label. He has much to share with us about his experiences growing up in the Soviet Union, his musical service in the Soviet military and his wonderful insights about music and being a musicians.
Jamie Baum is a powerhouse talent. She is a creative composer/arranger and leads a number of bands. She is also a monster jazz flute player. We have a great discussion about jazz flute, music, the music business and the challenges of being an artist in the 21st century. It is a great discussion you will not want to miss!!
Michael Dease is on the faculty at Michigan State University. He also is an active performer and records on the Posi-Tone jazz label. We have a great discussion about jazz and jazz education.
Alex has played and recorded with a ton of great musicians and led some great sessions of his own. He has great insights about jazz and the music profession to share. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Daniel and I have a great discussion about the music scene in Los Angeles. We also talk about his new album released in May entitled Shine Thru. You will not want to miss this episode!!!!
Miki and I have a great conversation about her performing and recording career in New York City. She is both a busy sideperson and leads her own groups as well.
Meredith just released a new album OTHER WAY HOME. We have a great discussion about her new album and the music scene in Toronto!! You will not want to miss this episode.
Angie's newest album is entitled IF I WERE HONEST. The album is a collection of thought provoking songs about strength and overcoming life's obstacles and being as tough as "Whiskey in a Teacup!!" You will not want to miss my interview with Angie.
Episode 87 is a "Special Edition" of THE MUSICAL UNIVERSE OF PROFESSOR HURST timed to coincide with the release of Stacy's new album Always The Outsider out TODAY!!!! You will not want to miss my interview with Stacy and hear all about her new album!!!
Sue Foley is a 2022 Blues Foundation Award Winner, taking home both the Koko Taylor Award for traditional blues artist (female) and Traditional Blues album for her album Pinky's Blues
Sue and I have a great talk about her new ablum, her career and the blues!! You will not want to miss this episode!
Jimmy is a consummate professional having performed with many jazz musicians on recordings and live performances. His insights into his artistic craft and profession are excellent advice to any aspiring professional musician.
George and I have a wonderful discussion about music and about his films Music Inn: A Film Documentary, andThe Modern Jazz Quartet: From Residency to Legacy.
Art's experience and insights into recording and playing live in New York add to a very interesting discussion about jazz, music pedagogy and being a jazz musician in the 21st century.
Chickenbone and I have a great discussion of the blues, the music scene in Southern California (and beyond) and his newest album "Serve It To Me Hot!"
Ken has much to share with you in this episode. He relays his work in the New York jazz scene both onstage and behind the scenes at Small's, the renowned jazz club in New York as well as other venues.
Peter is a seasoned professional who offers a generous outpouring of insight about the professional music world. We talk about his music, bands and what advice he would give someone seeking to become a professional musician.
Erinn has an interesting musical biography. Although not part of her original musical journey, she discovered bluegrass music and delved in deeply. She also has enthusiasm for pop/rock styles. Her most recent recording done in Nashville is comprised of songs she wrote during the pandemic lock down and while recovering from vocal surgery. Her music is vibrant, fun and listenable but also with depth.
Ivy Ryann's songs delve into the deepest and darkest parts of human emotions. She has a lot to say and provokes the listener to THiNK!!! You will enjoy the conversation Ivy and I have about her songs, her songwriting craft and music in general. Don't miss this episode!!!!
Jack Barksdale is an experienced, erudite and knowledgeable singer/songwriter. The fact that he is fourteen years old blew me away. You will enjoy the discussion Jack and I have, I know I did.
Alan and I have a fantastic discussion about the recording industry and specifically as it relates to jazz music and musicians and most specifically as it relates to the label Outside In Music!!!!
Josh is a fabulous artist. We have a great discussion about music, jazz and education. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Tom has successfully recorded eleven albums. He also performs regularly in Philadelphia and New York City. Additionally Tom is a successful educator. He shares his experiences of working with student on the autism spectrum.
Roxy has a new album entitled "Disparate Parts" coming out March 25. We talk a good deal about her new album and about jazz in general. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
Russ is a Wisconsin replant after spending 23 years performing and recording in New York City. Currently he is teaching at the University of Wisconsin Parkside and continuing his performing career in the greater Milwaukee and Chicago areas. We have a great discussion about jazz, trumpet playing, jazz education and more. You will not want to miss Episode 72!!!
Behn and I have an in depth discussion about jazz, and being a jazz musician in the 21st century. He has great insights to offer those aspiring to become music professionals. You will not want to miss this episode!!
The Bergamot, an American indie-folk-rock band is lead by husband and wife Nathaniel Hoff and Jillian Spence. Nathaniel and Jillian are very special people. We had a wonderful visit just before Christmas. This is an episode you will NOT WANT TO MISS!!!
Farnell Newton is a dynamic and artistic trumpet player from Portland, Oregon, although his work transcends to The East Coast, Europe and across the planet. We have a wonderful discussion about jazz, trumpet playing and music making in the 21st century. You will not want to miss this episode!!!
The Collection is a North Carolina based indie/pop band led by singer/songwriter David Wimbish. David and I have a great discussion about American popular music, his creative process and the band The Collection.
Cassandra Kaczor is an interesting musical phenomenon. One one hand she is an educated composer who writes contemporary art music. She is also an energetic pop performer. You will not want to miss our discussion of how these two worlds of music combine in her artistic endeavors.
Hanna and Jameson are true life love story. A love for each other and a love of music. You can hear it in their songs and will not want to miss this episode!!!
Veronica Lewis a YOUNG and up and coming artist on the Blues scene, having won several awards for her unique boogie-woogie, Rockabilly piano style and infectious vocals. You will not want to miss Episode 65!!!
Claudia and I have a wonderful discussion about her new album that dropped in October and about her craft of songwriting. My discovery composer of the week is Lawrence Ashmore.
Happy New Year!!!!!!
Get to know about the Ayers sisters and their group Lavendine. My discovery composer of the week is Johan Kalliwoda!!!
Now based in Nashville, Katie is a singer/songwriter from Baltimore, Maryland. With a background in contemporary Christian music Katie, weaves a beautiful musical portrait on her newest album "The Water Comes Back." We have a wonderful discussion about the music on her album and her songwriting craft!
Suzanne Grzanna is Milwaukee's own saxophone diva! She has many talents beyond the sax however and is also an accomplished vocalist, composer, arranger and producer. She also works a great deal in film. Suzanne has much to offer. You will not want to miss this episode.
Lauren's new album Love on the Rocks has been doing very well. She is a well educated, articulate and interesting artist who has a lot to say on the topics we discuss in this podcast. You won't want to miss it!!!!
Hadley is a charming young woman. We have an excellent discussion about music and her songwriting craft. My discovery composer of the the week is Frank Bridge.
Duane Betts, son of Dickie Betts has teamed up with the offspring of other Allman Brothers Band members to form the Allman Betts Band. Duane has had a multi decade career as a rock guitarist, singer and songwriter. We have a GREAT discussion about the Allman Brothers Band, and the Allman Betts band as well as Duane's songwriting craft.
Dwight + Nicole and I have a great discussion about music of the past and how it has informed their contemporary art of songwriting and performing. My discovery composer of the week is Thomas Wiggins.
Chesca has a new album out called "Feel The Breeze." We will be talking about her new album as well as her craft of songwriting. My discovery composer of the week is Sir Donald Tovey.
Ike and I have a great discussion about his music and songwriting process. My discovery composer of the week is French composer Albert Roussel.
Jonathan Paull Gertler is a former vascular surgeon who turned to music to express important and impactful meaning through his lyrics. His music is a joy and you will enjoy learning more about his music. My discovery composer of the week is John Abraham Fisher.
Miggy's story is a very interesting one. She came from Japan to New York and connected with the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and helped produce two of their Grammy nominated albums. She has continued with composing, arranging and leading her own 17 piece jazz big band.
Grace and I talk about her new EP "Yellow Cowboy Hat," her creative process and songwriting in general. My discovery composer of the week is Karol Szymanowsky.
Lynne and I will talk about her newest music, her creative process and the music scene in her part of Canada.
My discovery composer of the week is contemporary Icelandic composer Hildur Guonadottir.
Roger Street Friedman is a Long Island, New York based Singer/songwriter. We talk about his recently released EP, his creative process and music in general.
Deb Ryder's life is in itself a history of the Blues and R and B in Los Angeles. Her father was the owner of a blues club and Deb walked and talked and kicked off the band for the likes of Big Joe Turner as well as other luminaries in the Blues and R and B. We discuss her new album Memphis at Midnight as well as other topics on Blues and Music!!!!
Matthew and I will talk about the band GA-20, Hound Dog Taylor and the Blues in general as a style of music. You won't want to miss this excellent episode!!!
Patty has a new album out "Whole 'Nother World" recorded in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and produced by Blues icon Kenny Neal. We talk about her new album and her Nurse'n Blues program that has garnered her much recognition!!!
Gregg and I have a wonderful discussion about working in New York as a professional musician and band leader. Greg plays music in both Classical and Jazz genres and is in high demand as a bassist. He also fronts his own jazz orchestra and has done Grammy nominated composing, arranging and recording production.
Jennifer Wharton a veteran of Broadway pit orchestras is also the leader of the four trombone band Bonegasm. We have a great discussion about the trombone, her band and her work as a Broadway pit musician. She shares great insight and information about being a professional musician in New York City.
Jen Allen is an educator, composer/arranger and band leader working in New York City. We have a great discussion about jazz piano, composition and writing for the jazz combo and big band. She also provides some excellent advice for young aspiring musicians!!
Singer/songwriter Diana Jones and I will discuss her new album Song for a Refugee as well as her creative process and her work aiding dispossessed people.
Terry and I discuss his illustrious career playing on recording sessions with Grammy winning artists, the studio musician experience and touring with major Latin musical acts.
Myles and I talk about his new EP just released in July, his creative and songwriting process and music making in general.
My discovery composer of the week is 16th century Spanish music theorist and compose Diego Ortiz.
Ro and I talk about her new album Nowhere, Nebraska due to be released in a few days on August 6, 2021!!!!
Dave and I talk about jazz drumming, teaching and his fantastic career as a professional drummer and percussion educator in the greater Milwaukee area. My discovery composer of the week is Mason Bates!
Harpdog and I discuss the live music business, particularly in Western Canada. Harpdog imparts some wise ideas about the decline in live music and the rise in technology even before the COVID 19 pandemic. We talk about the Blues and about what he has done recently with his 2019 album For Love And Money and what he is doing currently with his online series on his website called "In The Dog House."
My discovery composer of the week is Girolamo Fantini, and important early Baroque trumpet player and author.
Darcy and I have a GREAT discussion about creativity, music, writing for big band and his production work on other band leaders' big band recordings. My discovery composer of the week isn't a Renaissance, Baroque or any kind of composer named Fontana, but rather the legendary jazz trombonist, Carl Fontana!!!!
Dr. Boykin and I discuss his research focusing on inter-group relations, hierarchy, prejudice, mentorship, and racial identity. More specifically his research lab investigates preferences for group inequality and perceptions of group inequality.
As rapper Malik Starx, Dr. Boykin is globally-traveled and well-respected with an artistry that highlights music’s ability to motivate discourse, inspire research, and promote joy. He has a forthcoming EP, entitled Higher Science.
Sara and I talk about her wonderful career on the Broadway stage, movies and television but focus on her album twentytwenty and her new single Good X 3. My discovery composer of the week will be Polish pianist and composer Julian Fontana (1810 - 1865)!!!!!
In this episode Ashley and I focus on her new album coming out in just hours on June 18. We also talk about her songwriting process, her inspirations and what message she is passing to us in her songs. My discovery composer of the week is Fabrizio Fontana (c. 1620 - 1695)!!
Jihye and I discuss the challenges of running a big band today both pre and during COVID. We also discuss the art of the big band, big band arranging and her thoughts on the future of jazz big bands.
Dan and I talk about his new single "Passenger" just released on May 14, 2021, his creative process and a number of his other songs recorded during what Dan calls his "Quarantine Sessions."
Sunday and I will be talking about her creative approach and her new album burning up the charts, Peace in Trouble.
Aubrey and I will be discussing her creative process and focus especially on her new album STANDARD due out May 21, 2021!!!!!!
Kate and I discuss the development of the band Run Katie Run, her creative process and songs from the bands new EP!!
Vanessa and I discuss her newest album and compare audiences in Europe with those in the United States. We also delve into her creative process and the artistic mechanics of her band.
Jon and I discuss his group Jon Tyler Wiley and His Virginia Choir, his latest single "Strong" as well as the band's transformation of the Rolling Stones' "Honky Tonk Woman" into a real country song, as well as other of the band's recordings. We will also plunge into Jon's songwriting and creative process. My discovery composer of the week is late Renaissance/early Baroque composer Tarquinio Merula.
We will be discussing John's take on the blues, his songwriting and creative process and his successful career. My discovery composer of the week will be Wisconsin born Michael Torke
We discuss Melody's career as a musician and as a singer songwriter as well as her new album Wolf Song!!
Leo and I will be discussing his newest recordings, his songwriting and the new directions he is taking in his musical life.
Episode 22 includes an interview with up and coming Country Singer/Songwriter Casey Ahern. We talk about her creative process in songwriting and about her new single released March 5th, "Bradley." My composer of the week is Renaissance/Reformation master Ludwig Senfl.
We will discuss Mark's creative process, his band We Six and their new release, The Milwaukee Jazz Institute and his books on learning to be a jazz pianist.
We will discuss the many facets of Alan's career including his composing and arranging for large jazz ensemble, and his teaching at New York University. My discovery composer of the week is Brazilian born contemporary composer Clarice Assad.
Recorded January 4, 2021, Episode nineteen includes an interview with Pittsburgh based Blues singer Miss Freddy Stover. We talk about the Blues scene in Pittsburgh, her career in music, her creative process and her new single "Wade In The Water."
Our discussion will include Matt's career as a trumpet player and musical entreprenuer in the greater Milwaukee area. Will discuss his booking and management agencies, and his work promoting live music.
David and I discuss The Wisconsin Blues Harmonica Festival, Jazz Unlimited Milwaukee, his career as a blues harmonica player, his album and more!!!
In this episode I talk with music entreprenuer Michael Grassman about his professional performing, teaching and his business Sound Check Entertainment and Studios.
Barbara Stephan is a Milwaukee area singer/songwriter, teacher, artist and entreprenuer.
Allison and I talk about her various ventures in music including Wisconsin Music Ventures, Allison's Music Hustle and other ways she is working to promote music and musicians in the greater Milwaukee area
Today's episode will feature an interview with George Shingleton. We will talk about his music, his creative process and his new album, "Out All Nighter." My discovery composer of the week will be German American composer Ingolf Dahl
Part two of our discussion delves more in depth with some of the bands Mike has played including Clamnation, De La Buena, Dr. Science and the Milwaukee Symphony Pops
Episode Eleven includes an interview with Dr. Michael Pauers a Biology Professor and Colleague of mine at The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee at Waukesha. In addition to being an avid Icthyologist (he is very into fish!) Mike is also an accomplished jazz baritone saxophonist and is widely recognized in the greater Milwaukee area from his musical endeavors. We will talk about networking in the music business, and the various bands he has been associated.
Dan and I will be talking about his career as a big band leader in New York as well as creative process in composing and arranging for his group The Dan Pugach Nonnette.
Episode NIne will include an interview with Erin Harpe. We will talk about the Blues scene in Boston, her career as a musician and focus on her new album "Meet Me in the Middle."
Today's interview will be with one of the most in demand lead trumpet players in the United States. Frank Greene is currently the lead trumpet player with the Count Basie Band and formerly was a member of Paul Schaffer and The World's Most Dangerous Band on Late Night With David Letterman. Frank also toured with the Maynard Ferguson Big Band and has played on Grammy nominated albums with Christian McBride and Gerald Wilson.
Our interview will include discussion of Gina's new single "Unrequited Love" as well as her creative songwriting process and her plans once it is again safe to tour after the pandemic.
Episode 6 will include an interview with Dr. Bob Lark, director of the Jazz Studies Program at DePaul University in Chicago. Dr. Lark is also an accomplished jazz trumpet player and big band leader and arranger with several recordings to his credit. We will be discussing the Jazz scene in Chicago prior to COVID 19 and what current recordings and projects Dr. Lark is engaged. My discovery composer of the week is Paul Wranitzky a highly respected contemporary of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven although overshadowed by them in the amber of neglect. I hope to lead you to discover music by this neglected master.
This podcast includes my interview with Country Singer Songwriter Victoria Bailey. We will be discussing her newest recordings including her album "Jesus, Red Wine and Patsy Cline," her new single for the Christmas holidays, "Christmas Must Be Tonight," and her cover of Bruce Springsteen's "Hungry Heart!"
In this episode I talk with Milwaukee based jazz trumpet player and educator Eric Jacobson. Eric talks about the Milwaukee Jazz Scene pre COVID 19, The Milwaukee Jazz Institute and his New Book!
This podcast includes my interview with T.W. Sample, an East Coast based pianist and organist. We talk about his work and newest recording Situational Awareness. Also my discovery composer of the week!!
Episode Two will consist of an interview with Jazz Pianist Roberto Magris and discussion of his new 2 CD release SUITE!. Additionally, the new composer discovery this week will be Julius Klengel.
Today's episode includes an interview with blues guitarist Alex Smith, and discussion of my discovery composer Nicholas Ludford.