NMJazz

Jazz Camp is right around the corner!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Wed, 25 May 2011 16:24:00 +0000

Summer's nearly here! There are so many ways for our kids to spend the Summer

of 2011. We hope you'll consider signing your kids up for Jazz Camp. It's jazz, and a

whole lot more!

(((NEW MEXICO JAZZ WORKSHOP)))
((((((((((JAZZ CAMP 2011))))))))))
Three Sessions: JUNE 13 -- JULY 22

Location: Alice King Community School
1905 Mountain Road North West
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87104
(Next to Explora and the New Mexico History Museum)

Join us for the 17th year of the New Mexico Jazz Workshop's
popular music-based day camp for children ages 6-12.
Each session is 2 weeks in length and includes instrument, voice,
dance and art instruction all wrapped up in fun!

No previous musical experience necessary!

Classes include:
African drumming
Caribbean Jam
Marimba
Mask Making
Blues Band
Studio Art
Capoeira
Drums, Drums, and More Drums!
Hip Hop Dance
African Dance

Camp sessions, dates and themes include:
Session A: Jazz Roots - June 13 thru 24
Session B: Jazz, An American Original- June 27 thru July 8 (except July 4)
Session C: Jazz Around the World- July 11 thru 22
Discounts for siblings.

For costs and additional information, please visit www.nmjazz.org
For more information please call Debbie @ 505-255-9798

Salsa, Jazz & Blues Under the Stars 2011

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Thu, 19 May 2011 16:56:00 +0000

Hello JAZZ FRIENDS!

SUMMER'S ALMOST HERE! Are you ready for Salsa/Jazz & Blues Under the Stars?

We're kicking off our Summer Music Festival Under the Stars in just a few short weeks!! Friday, June 3^rd with island-style salsa from the Arizona-based Jaleo, along with the latest Cuban salsa group on the Albuquerque scene, En-Joy. Throughout the summer, Friday night salsa will include hot and steamy evenings with, Ivon Ulibarri y Café Mocha, Nosotros, Son Como Son, Calle 66, Cuban salsa from Team Havana, Quemozo and Charanga del Valle. Opening weekend continues with jazz on Saturday, June 4^th with the Big Band Extravaganza featuring theAlbuquerque Jazz Orchestra under the direction saxophonist, Glenn Kostur. The concert also features the NMJW Mid High and High School Honor Jazz Bands and the High School Honor Jazz Combo.

Following on the heels of opening weekend, young lions John Maestas and Asher Barreras bring their jazz ensemble, Humoso to the stage. Veteran sax man Doug Lawrence will also perform a set that evening, in an Under the Stars event that won’t soon be forgotten.

No one can forget the great evening of jazz that featured some of our favorite artists of the male persuasion. Men’s Voices returns with the New Mexico Gay Men’s Chorus Le Chat Lunatique, Clay Benard, Deian McBryde, and more, as well as Women’s Voices: Ladies Sing the Blues, curated by Joan Cere featuring Hillary Smith, Busy McCarroll, The Rhinestones, Lydia Clark and newcomer Ali Rae. A second evening of Women’s Voices happens later in the season, and offers a tribute to Abbey Lincoln, Nina Simone, and Carmen McCrae, curated by local Diva, Patty Stephens. The night also features Zenobia and Susan Abod. The Summer Music Festival continues through August 20^th with Mystic Vic, Ben Martinez Project, Red Hot & Red, Ryan McGarvey, Tribute Trio: Acoustic and Electric, Soul Kitchen, Memphis P’Tails, a special night with the former Tonight Show music director, Kevin Eubanks and Grammy-winning artist Larry Mitchell and so much more, Under the Stars.

Here's the full schedule of concerts!!!!

New Mexico Jazz Workshop’s 35th Anniversary Season

2011 Summer Music Festival Performance Schedule

June 3 – August 20

6/3 Jaleo/En-Joy $13/$11/$10

6/4 Big Band Extravaganza $13/$11/$10

6/10 Nosotros $13/$11/$10

6/11 Humoso/Doug Lawrence $13/$11/$10

6/17 Havana Son $13/$11/$10

6/18 Women’s Voices: Ladies Sing the Blues $15/$13/$12

6/24 Son Como Son $13/$11/$10

6/25 Tribute Trio: Acoustic and Electric $13/$11/$10

7/8 Charanga del Valle $13/$11/$10

7/9 Mystic Vic/Ryan McGarvey $13/$11/$10

7/15 Ivon Ulibarri y Cafe Mocha $13/$11/$10

7/16 Kevin Eubanks/Larry Mitchell $30/$25$20

7/22 Calle 66 $13/$11/$10

7/23 NO PERFORMANCE

7/29 Team Havana $15/$13/$12

7/30 Soul Kitchen/Memphis P’Tails $13/$11/$10

8/5 Quemozo $13/$11/$10

8/6 Women’s Voices: Tribute to Carmen McCrae,

Abbey Lincoln & Nina Simone $15/$13/$12

8/12 Son Como Son $13/$11/$10

8/13 Ben Martinez Project/Red Hot & Red $13/$11/$10

8/20 Men’s Voices $15/$13/$12

Mayor Richard J. Berry and First Lady Maria Berry Honor NMJW

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 22:03:00 +0000

New Mexico Jazz Workshop

Acknowledged by Mayor Richard J. Berry

and First Lady Maria Berry

New Mexico Jazz Workshop to be beneficiary of 2011 Mayor and First Lady Berry Gala

Albuquerque-- New Mexico Jazz Workshop has been named one of the five charities designated as a beneficiary of the 25^th Anniversary Mayor and First Lady’s Charity Gala. Albuquerque’s First Couple will host an evening that includes an auction, live music and fine dining. The black tie event will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2011 from 6pm to 11pm at the Albuquerque Convention Center. For more information about the Gala, please visit www.mayorscharitygala.com or via email: charitygala@cabq.gov or by phone: 505-768-3045.

“We were thrilled to receive the news,” says Vicki Dugger, Assistant Director of the New Mexico Jazz Workshop. “We knew that there would be a lot of great organizations submitting proposals. We’re grateful to have been selected.”

This year, funds raised at the Gala will support five worthy organizations, including The New Mexico Jazz Workshop’s Empowerment Through Music program-- NMJW’s arts and social services programming. “Empowerment Through Music is making a difference in the lives of low-income, at-risk and incarcerated youth,” says Dugger. “Through this program, youth increase their musical and technological understanding in order to better navigate their futures.” Dugger explains that Empowerment Through Music also helps stem what is known as, “summer slide;” the loss of educational gains over the summer break. Dugger adds that, “Children without healthy stimulation and activities lose an average of 25% of what they learned over the school year, which becomes cumulative over time.”

Funds raised at the Gala will allow New Mexico Jazz Workshop to increase therapeutic instruction at the Bernalillo County Juvenile Detention Center and expand the South Valley Band Project, which provides music mentoring for at-risk middle school students. “We are so grateful for the ability to expand our programs that help kids creatively cope with the world around them.” Dugger says.

For more information about Empowerment Through Music, please contact Debra Orlofsky, Empowerment Through Music Coordinator at The New Mexico Jazz Workshop at 505-255-9798 or debo@nmjazz.org.

Empowerment Through Music is sponsored by: Sennheiser, Target, Bernalillo County, Wells Fargo, Grandmas Music and Sound, United Way of Central New Mexico and Cardinal Health.

Experimental, electric, ALIVE, Jazz, Deconstructed Volume 2

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:25:00 +0000

Nu Jazz, Japanese Jazz, Punk Jazz. . . there are as many styles of jazz as there are rivers on earth; each rivulet, creek and brook leads back to the original aquifer that never seems to run dry. Jazz, Deconstructed Volume 2, celebrates the diverse world of experimental jazz from four very different perspectives and tributaries.

Volume 2 of the series explores everything from ancient sounds on analog instruments to electronic playback and streaming audio/visuals. Using atonality, dissonance, improvisation and traditional song structure, the artists in the series add a verse to the new vanguard of the movement, changing the way we experience jazz.

Here's the line-up:

April 6: Mark Weaver's UFO Ensemble

April 13: Sama Duo

April 20: John Rangel and the Improv Comp

April 27: The Things That Are Heard

Bring your cash money-- Tractor Brewery will be serving up the beer and wine and the Kosmos Cafe will be open for all of you coffee and tea drinkers. Hurray!

Deconstructed: Wednesdays, April 6-27, 7pm at The Kosmos, 1715 5^th Street, downtown Albuquerque. Tickets are $10 general, $8 students, seniors and NMJW members. Tickets are available online at www.eventbrite.com.

Give the Gift of Jazz!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 22:59:00 +0000

It's the second week of December already.

CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? We're not

quite ready to settle in for Winter just yet! One more concert for the year, Adult Education classes are shaping up, and we're gearing up for a a busy 2011!

12/12 Middle School and High School Youth Honor Bands RECITAL: Sunday, December 12th 1PM -3PM at the Cooperage, 7220 Lomas NE. Don't miss an afternoon of music with the future of jazz in New Mexico (and beyond!) Middle-High and High School Honor Band kids go on to great things. Get in on the ground floor of their assent to amazing heights!

Mid-High School Honor Jazz Band

Under the Direction of Sam Nesbitt

High School Honor Jazz Band

Under the Direction of Christian Pincock

*********************************

ONE-STOP SHOPPING @ NEW MEXICO JAZZ WORKSHOP

Give the Gift of JAZZ!

Consider an alternative to the hustle and bustle of holiday gift shopping by purchasing a gift card from New Mexico Jazz Workshop. Give the gift of Jazz -- buy NMJW Jazz Bucks.

A gift card of $50, $100, $150 or $200 is a wonderful way to offer the artist in your life the opportunity to take a class, attend a concert, present dollars towards a Jazz Camp session, or even join NMJW as a Member! Call us for more information: 505-255-9798.

We'll see you in the New Year! Can't wait.

NMJW

New Mexico Jazz Stories, VOLUME 2!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 17:07:00 +0000

It's time for volume 2 of New Mexico Jazz Stories, an intimate evening with the artist! We're very excited by the line-up!

Life is an improvisation, a mixed tape, an unfinished work-- and no one knows that better than the five professional musicians NMJW has lined up for New Mexico Jazz Stories. They've played everywhere, from juke joints to concert halls, for sophisticated, international audiences, to salty bar flies in dives. The artists of New Mexico Jazz Stories Volume 2 have collected their stories throughout their colorful journeys, and they plan to share them with you, for the first time.

John Rangel kicks off the series. Rangel, a dynamic composer and pianist comes from a musical family full of opera singers. Find out how he got into jazz on October 6^th.

Next up is bassist Milo Jaramillo. Born and raised in New Mexico, Jaramillo lives and commutes from his native Isleta Pueblo to perform everything from jazz to funk, reggae to world music. Jaramillo shares his jazz stories on October 13^th.

Patty Stephens is a Diva of the highest order. Stephens captivates audiences with her golden pipes, and her tales are sure to be equally mesmerizing. Don’t miss Jazz Stories with Patty Stephens on October 20^th.

On October 27^th Jazz Stories presents trumpeter Paul Gonzales. Gonzales, a KUNM DJ and member of various salsa groups, including Son Como Son is also an Army Veteran. What was it like to have musician Arlen Asher visit your first grade class? Find out from Gonzales at Jazz Stories.

Closing out the 2010 Jazz Stories series is well-respected guitarist and bassist Lewis Winn. Winn has performed professionally for nearly 40 years, and he certainly has many, many interesting tales to tell. Volume 2 of New MexicoJazz Stories: An Intimate Evening with the Artist is sure to be a lively series you won’t want to miss.

New Mexico Jazz Stories: An Intimate Evening with the Artist, October 6^th through November 3^rd at 7pm. The Cooperage 7220 Lomas NE. Tickets are $15 General, $10 NMJW Members/Seniors/Students. Series passes available. Please call NMJW at 505-255-9798 or visit our website www.nmjazz.org for more information. Tickets are also available online at www.brownpapertickets .com.

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/124992
john rangel

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/125014
milo Jaramillo

https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/125021
patty stephens

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/125028
paul gonzales

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/125030
lewis winn

Facing the Day with Alex Maryol

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 17:19:00 +0000

Alex Maryol's bio is crazy impressive. This young blues artist has been on the circuit for years, opening for Etta James, Bo Diddley, Ani DiFranco, Michael Franti, Leon Russell, and G. Love and Special Sauce, to name a few. He has shared the stage with artists, oh, like James Brown, Johny Lang, John Mayer, Otis Taylor and Buddy Miles.

Alex is on the bill with Todd Tijerina as well as Combo Special TONIGHT at 7pm, at the final Jazz & Blues Under the Stars at the Albuquerque Museum Amphitheater in Old Town. We thought we'd pin Alex down for a short interview:

NMJW:
Why the Blues? What made you gravitate towards this genre of music?

AM:
Blues is a very emotional sounding music... I felt the blues from a very young age... from the first moment I heard it when I was around 4 or 5. Blues is a music -like all music- that is not in the "notes" but rather that is in the person.

NMJW:
You credit musicians like Chuck Berry, Fats Domino and Elvis Presley as people who've influenced you. When did you first become aware of these artists and how?

AM:
I first heard these artists on my dad's radio in his truck as he drove me to kindergarten when I was four. He would then play more of these artists for me on his record player in our living room.

NMJW:
You mention being the son of Greek-American restaurateurs in your biographical information. Were you expected to enter the family business? When did it become clear that you were charting your own course through music?

AM:
I was never expected to be or do anything in particular. I always had the freedom to choose what I wanted to do... however, growing up in the restaurant is a very important detail in my life. I always wanted to be involved with music. My mom tells me that I would pick my head up in the crib when I was a baby to "see what was going on" when there was music being played in the room.

NMJW:
Tell us about Face the Day. How have you approached the material on this record, in contrast to your earlier releases?

AM:
Face the Day is an album that deals with my experience of life through my mid 20's.

NMJW:
What's your favorite guilty pleasure in terms of music?

AM:
Kelly Clarkson, Shania Twain, and Cindi Lauper.

NMJW:
Who would you most like to share the stage with?

AM:
Leslie Feist

NMJW:
If you were not a musician, where else might you focus your creative attention?

AM:
Running, Bicycling and Swimming.

An interview with Ashley SAYWUT Moyer!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 18:13:00 +0000

Women's Voices: Tribute to Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan was a HIT. Thank you for making last Saturday an amazing night!

At Women's Voices, we introduced you to Ashley aka Saywut Moyer-- the real WILD CARD of the night! Ashley's Hip Hop beatboxing was exciting, provocative, and startling juxtaposed with jazz. Moyer mixed this "modern" vocal work with traditional jazz singing, creating a hybrid few people have ever heard before, and people can't stop talking about it! We're still getting great feedback from people intrigued by Moyer's style, so we thought we'd do a short interview with her!

NMJW: Tell us about beat box, and it's modern origins.

AM:

Beatboxing is music made only with the human body through breath control, and muscle control. It is something that can be found all over the world.

NMJW:

Like other forms of music, beatbox is male-dominated. Where are all the ladies? How did you

decide you wanted to beatbox?

AM:
I don't think most women beatbox because it isn't something that females do often enough to be considered normal. Most people in general don't even know what it is. Also, it's kinda out of character for women to make crazy sound effects and music with their mouths. However, there are a few women beatboxers all over the world. Mostly in the UK. A few here in the US as well. I decided to beatbox because I was drawn to it when I saw it, and started to imitate what I saw and heard. Once I learned that I was ok at it, I continued on and practiced.

NMJW:

Who are some of your influences? How did you get started?

AM:

Some of my influences are Zack Freeman, Roxorloops, Bizmarkee, Dougie Fresh, and any music or sounds that catch my ear...I want to imitate the sounds/music that I enjoy. I started when I was a sophomore in high school. A kid at my school was beatboxing, and I was instantly hooked. I have always been good at imitating noises, or voices, so when I heard him, It was natural for me to pick it up. I haven't stopped since. It's been 7 1/2 years already, and I am still to this day amazed at the amount of opportunities and blessings I have recieved through beatboxing. I guess it all depends on where your heart's at. I have learned that my beatboxing is a gift, it helps me connect with people and them with everyone else in the room in a way that almost feels like we are closer to god. I have accepted this as my responsibility, to be a circuit and open people to a feeling of love and humanity they may have forgotten they could feel. I have to share that love...I am truly blessed to do what I do.

NMJW:

We know you are politically active in the local and global community. How does your music support your politics?

AM:

I started out performing in my community because I had the gift of beatboxing. People noticed me, and wanted me to do shows for them. Since it was a gift, and I wanted to help people and effect change, I decided to use my beatboxing as a way to use my voice and express myself and the causes I believe in. I have always been very picky with what kind of shows I do, because I don't want to endorse something that may not have my or others best interest at heart...I enjoy working with grass roots organizations. I enjoy being able to share my gift, and not feel like a product that only focuses on me. I love working with youth in the city and state that I grew up in. I know what kind of role model these kids need, and I am proud to take that roll on. Especially as a female beatboxer.

NMJW:

What do you say to other young women interested in getting into beatboxing?

AM:

I say go for it! It is a rare art form, but like anything, practice and passion will get you where you want to be. I always enjoy beatboxing for young women who didn't know females could beatbox. It opens a whole new side of their minds where they start to consider other paths for themselves aside from what they see on TV or hear on the radio. I like to show them that they too can be respected, accepted and expressed in a way that is their own. My heart goes out to all the young women, they need someone to show them that females are supportive of each other, and that being proud of who you are is a very positive and freeing experience...to me it's what life is all about.

NMJW:

Thanks, Ashley!

AM:

Thank you!

Womenful weekend at New Mexico Jazz Workshop

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 21:46:00 +0000

Hello NMJW Friends!

Here we are heading into the third weekend of Salsa/Jazz & Blues Under the Stars! It's been a scorcher out there, but the music has been even hotter. This weekend we're proud to present TWO great nights of music led by women for the enjoyment of ALL!

On Friday night, we welcome back to the Salsa Under the Stars stage Ivon Ulibarri y Cafe Mocha. Absolutely one of the best, most in sync salsa bands in the South West, Cafe Mocha never fails to deliver. Ivon leads the band, and Rosie's a powerhouse on vocals. You want cha-cha? You got it. You want SON?? You got it. You know you can't go wrong with Cafe Mocha. Remember to get the the Albuquerque Museum Amphitheater early and take advantage of the FREE salsa class with Salsa Baby!

On Juneteenth, NMJW proudly presents the first of two nights featuring some of New Mexico’s most dynamic women vocalists. Don't miss Ladies Sing the Blues featuring Hillary Smith, Cathryn McGill, Joan Cere (formally Griffin), Wendy Beach, and none other than the Rhinestones! Are you ready for some hollerin’, honkin’, shoutin and gettin’ down? Then Ladies Sing the Blues is YOUR NIGHT under the stars! Join some of Albuquerque’s finest blues singers and musicians for a night of blistering blues born from the African-American A.M.E. Churches, to the field hollers and streets of Memphis, Chicago, New Orleans, to the dusty, back roads, train tracks, cross roads, and juke joints of the American landscape, making a way out of no way. The emcee for Ladies Sing the Blues is KUNM radio personality, writer, poet and blogger, Mary Oishi!

You gotta be there! Get your tickets in advance and avoid the queue!

www.brownpapertickets.com

The New Mexico Jazz Workshop Summer Concert Series BEGINS!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Tue, 01 Jun 2010 21:10:00 +0000

Hello Jazz Friends!

It's that time again, folks! Time to stretch our legs, get outside, and get sweaty! No, we're not talking about mowing the lawn. It's time for the NMJW Summer Concert Series UNDER THE STARS! Starting THIS FRIDAY, June 4th we're kicking off a summer of great concerts, all summer long and the Albuquerque Museum Amphitheater!

On FRIDAY, JUNE 4th-- Felipe Ruibal y Quemozo breaks the seal on the salsa, it's ripe, delicious and ready to go! On SATURDAY, JUNE 5th, we welcome the Albuquerque Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of Bobby Shew and none other than our NMJW Youth Honor Bands, led by Christian Pincock (High School) and Sam Nesbitt (Middle School).

Where ya goin'? You know there's MORE in store. Week two of the Salsa Under the Stars we welcome Charanga del Valle, June 11th. You'll soon be over your Los Van Van heart break, just get on that dance floor. On June 12th come out for the Saxophone Summit featuring Glenn Kostur, Lee Taylor and Kanoa Kaluhiwa, and Aaron Lovato. Just buy a Summer Pass, please! You're not going to want to miss a single weekend. Because week three we have the lovely Ivon Ulibarri y Cafe Mocha! And, the first night of Women's Voices!

On Saturday, June 19^th NMJW presents the first night of Women’s Voices with Ladies Sing the Blues, hosted by KUNM radio personality, Mary Oishi. Join some of Albuquerque’s finest blues singers and musicians for a night of blistering blues born from the African-American A.M.E. Churches, to the field hollers and streets of Memphis, Chicago, New Orleans; to the dusty, back roads, train tracks, cross roads, and juke joints of the American landscape—making “a way out of no way.“ Are you ready for some hollerin’, honkin’, shoutin’, and getting’ down?” Joan Cere says (formally Joan Griffin). Cere, lead singer of Combo Special, is a performer and the curator of Ladies Sing the Blues. Cere pledges a diva-packed evening of blues featuring Hillary Smith, Wendy Beach, and Cathryn McGill. “So many soulful, talented people coming together to make the music that makes us who we are,” Cere says. Cere cites singers such as Big Momma Thornton, Bessie Smith, Janice Joplin and Ma Rainey as inspiration for Ladies Sing the Blues. Cere calls Ladies Sing the Blues, “a rootsy, rocking, feelin’ kind of music-- the kind that makes your skin tingle and brings a tear to your eye-- makes you wanna shake your stuff and join the party.”

Women's Voices 2010 continues with a tribute to the mothers of jazz: Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Sarah Vaughan. Women’s Voices: Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan Saturday, July 10^th.

They sang to express the secrets of their hearts, for sheer joy, to pay the rent, to stay afloat, to keep going. Women's Voices 2010 pays tribute to the mothers of jazz: Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Sarah Vaughan. This trinity of vocalists left mighty big shoes to fill. On Saturday, July 10^th, Patty Stephens, Patti Littlefield, Chava, Kathy Gutierrez, and Ashley (aka SayWut!?) Moyer pay a soulful, moving homage to the music, the women, and the lives and times that made Sarah, Billie and Ella trine stars that never lose their luster, and never fade from our collective memory.

“This tribute isn’t to the jazz song, it is to the lives of three women who sang those jazz songs,” says Patty Stephens, performer and curator of the tribute. “This tribute is from the New Mexican women of song to our ancestors, our elders.” Stephens, a favorite on the local jazz scene, says this concert is a deep exploration of the work and the world of Dames Fitzgerald, Vaughan and Holiday, not an evening of greatest hits. “I’m not talking about a contemporary singer sticking a big flower behind her ear, and bending notes,” Stephens says. “I’m talking about the women who stay up late, drag home in the middle of the night and work on new tunes and go sing at church on Sunday.”

This year’s Women’s Voices features a new, exciting element to the performance. Ashley (aka SayWut?!) Moyer, a local hip-hop beat boxer of note will, take the stage. (Beatboxing is a rediscovered art of producing drum beats, rhythm, and musical sounds using one's mouth, lips, tongue and voice. The art form dates back to the ancient tradition of bhol, found in the music of India.) Stephens, who will be performing a few duets with Moyer, says that beat boxing expresses the “jazz element of scat—the percussive use of the voice, and the power of improvisation.” According to Stephens, there are all components that relate back to Fitzgerald, Holiday and Vaughan. “Ashley brings to the evening a true, raw element of vocal expression inherent in jazz, and the music of the divas we honor.”

Women’s Voices 2010 Saturday, June 19^th and Saturday, July 10^th are sure to be two evenings of Jazz & Blues Under the Stars audiences won’t soon forget.

MUCH MORE to come as the summer rolls on!

We'll see you, Under the Stars . . .

School Days

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Wed, 12 May 2010 22:14:00 +0000

Hello, Jazz Friends!

It's nearly summer! Can you believe that? We're looking forward to getting outside for the Salsa/Jazz & Blues Under the Stars shows! We're also happy to let you know that we'll be offering summer jazz courses for adults!

Eight-week and ten-week courses are available for adult students interested in Modern Jazz Ensemble, Community Big Band, Latin Jazz & Improvisation, Vocal Jazz and, Real Book Jam!

Our adult ed classes are designed for musicians looking to expand their knowledge and skills! NMJW classes offer adults the opportunity to study with some of New Mexico's most talented, working musicians.

The 2010 Summer Adult Education Program offers students four, great courses to assist adult musicians and vocalists in the development of their craft. Latin Jazz & Improvisation, taught by Rodolfo Gonzalez provides the student with skills for jazz combo performance while exploring Latin rhythms. Lewis Winn offers an updated course in Modern Jazz Ensemble which emphasizes improvisation, swing, hot, and cool styles while developing successful ensemble techniques.

NMJW Community Big Band taught by Christian Pincock is a popular, challenging but rewarding course with limited enrollment in the band, so sign-up right away! Patty Stephens, local diva and curator of Women’s Voices: Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and Sarah Vaughan, offers her very popular course. This class is designed to improve your vocal jazz skills while exploring the song(s) of your choice. Each of the summer courses culminates in its own performance.

For musicians wishing to connect and collaborate with other players without the commitment of a class, Real Book Jam is a good choice.

For a small lab fee, musicians and singers are invited to come together on Saturday afternoons to simply play!

For a full description of courses and fees, please visit www.nmjazz.org

See ya in class!

2010 Summer Adult Education Program-- course series begins June 6^th and runs through August 15^h. Dates and times for classes vary. For full course description, and instructor bios, please visit our website: www.nmjazz.org. For more information, contact Vicki Dugger, Adult Education Coordinator

505-255-9798. Or, send email to Vicki at nmjazzvols@gmail.com.

Joe Gabel rolls the extra mile for NMJW!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Fri, 07 May 2010 22:17:00 +0000

Joe Gabel? You ROCK. You roll, too.

Joe's Ex-President's Pedalthon!

Immediate Past President Joe Gabel will cycle 400 Miles in ONE WEEK (May 17-22) to raise scholarship money for kids to attend JAZZ CAMP! What started out as an unassuming fundraiser to send 10 kids to Jazz Camp (cost: $3,000 total) has turned into a full-on campaign! Joe is committed to raising $15,000 for camp scholarships which will send 50 KIDS to camp! Yeah!

Not to be undone, Mark Zettel at Modern Bike Engines is going to give the individual who makes the largest donation to Joe's cause the installation and service on a NEW BIKE ENGINE-- valued at $1,000! (Want to know more about Modern Bike Engines, stop by at 3204 San Mateo NE.)

Now, you don't have to jump on a bike and start pedaling, to join the cause! It's easy to donate: just click on the link and donate some dough toJoe's Ex-President's Pedalthon!

http://www.firstgiving.org/joegabel

Jazz, Deconstructed thanks YOU!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Fri, 07 May 2010 16:27:00 +0000

Hello friends,

We've been slammed, getting ready for the Summer Concert Series, Salsa/Jazz & Blues Under the Stars. But, we want to say a huge THANK YOU for checking out Jazz, Deconstructed. The last two shows, with Joy Harjo (4.21) and Christian Pincock (4.28) were truly phenomenal.

Thank you!

Week two of Jazz, Deconstructed at The Kosmos

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 15:37:00 +0000

Evolutionary Sounds featuring Luis Guerra and Amani Malaika kicked off our BRAND NEW, month-long series, Jazz, Deconstructed. Every Wednesday in April, we're presenting jazz, not as a set-in-stone art form, but as music that is in flux, constantly transforming, regenerating . . .

This Wednesday, April 14th, NMJW welcomes Resonance. Mark Weaver on tuba and digeridoo and Patti Littlefield on vocals present their own brand of deconstructed jazz. Expect tunes by Thelonius Monk, Kurt Weill, and several original tunes that reflect their eclectic collaboration and collective wit.

See you there!

NMJW

New Mexico Jazz Workshop

Jazz, Deconstructed w/

((((RESONANCE))))

Wednesday, April 14th @ 7pm

The Kosmos 1715 5th Street NW

Albuquerque

Tickets $10 General $8 Students/Seniors/NMJW Members

Tickets available online @ Brownpapertickets.

PS-- Wanna buy your tickets online? Just click here.

PS II- We know some of you are kicking yourselves for waiting until the final hours to get your taxes done. No problem! Just get them ready by Wednesday, drop them off at the main branch post office, and high-tail it to the Kosmos for your Resonance reward!

(photo of Evolutionary Sounds by Christina Gavino Gray)

Cabaret with Deian McBryde!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:02:00 +0000

Deian McBryde is a ladies' man. We mean, a self-confident, approachable man women enjoy being around. Guys like him, too. What is it about Deian that speaks to us? Charisma. The man’s got charm for days. So much charm (and guts and talent) that he’s parlayed his skills into an international singing career. A self-proclaimed, “Sonic Smoothie,” Deian has entertained in the US, Canada, Europe, Russia and Australia as a solo artist and with his little jazz band, The Pretty Girl Orchestra. Now Deian honors us by offering a brand new class at New Mexico Jazz Workshop. If you’ve ever wanted to sing loud and proud, then consider taking Deian’s NMJW class, Cabaret! which starts Monday, March 22 at 6:30pm. We caught up with Deian to talk about the class, about the art of cabaret, and singin’ to the cheap seats.

NMJW: So, what draws you to cabaret? What about this performance style attracts you?

DMc: I'm really drawn to narrative and interpretation. Cabaret is a unique form because, unlike musical theatre, the stories are very personal -- even if you are in "character." This isn't about you acting like anyone other than being more fully yourself, and offering your wisdom and vulnerabilities to the audience. When a cabaret artist is really present to what's happening (something I call, "Being in The Room") people pay attention. Maybe it helps them make sense of the world, in the case of very political cabaret, or maybe it helps them feel the empathy of someone sharing their experience. In cabaret, the drama and the humor are personal and practical to the human experience. I've done a lot of singing from concerts to nightclubs -- the times I've made them laugh hardest and cry deepest have all been in a cabaret.

NMJW: Who are some of your influences, and why?

DMc: It's not completely true but I generally "quote" my mother who "said," "Sing so the people in the cheap seats can hear you!" That's actually not at all true; she never said that and I just made it up. But, true story, when I was a kid and wanted to be one of the Carol Burnett Dancers, she said, "Well, they're not picking people from Mars for those jobs; it's just people like you me." That bit of advice has given me WAY more courage than my talent justifies. Creatively, I'm inspired by the cabaret legend, Julie Wilson, who rode the subway with me one day and said, "I never let anyone tell me how to sing my songs -- that's my only job."

NMJW: Tell us about the experiences with this art form?

DMc: I performed in cabarets in New York for a number of years. Eighty-Eights, The Duplex, Don't Tell Mama... a lot of them. I actually got "medium popular" on the scene but there was always a disconnect between me and the cabaret community in New York because I just wanted to "do my job" as Julie said. So, I did them alone with just a pianist. I didn't hire musical directors, acting coaches, choreographers and a fleet of people eager to take my limited cash -- that always just felt WAY to dilettante for me. But, things did take off when I took my 2nd trip to Australia to perform in the Melbourne Fringe Festival. I created a character (students will hear ALL about that!) and did a nightclub act based on this other life. To everyone's surprise (meaning, me) we won the Melbourne Fringe Festival Prize for Musical Direction that year... and the year after that, too! I ended up performing sold-out rooms in Melbourne and Adelaide, and slightly smaller houses in Sydney for which I am still NOT bitter. I learned from this series to never underestimate the power of a good story to move people deeply and profoundly, with grace and humor. I also sang a cabaret in the middle of a Russian Rave party in St. Petersburg a few years ago -- the kids all stopped everything to watch, listen and cheer. That taught me that a good story lives in your bones, not always in your words.

NMJW: How do you apply cabaret to "modern" music? What are some "modern" examples of the style?

DMc: Well... I dunno. I think cabaret requires a point, a purpose of some sort. I don't agree that it's a night of show tunes strung together with stories about the good old days. But I also don't think it's anything you do in a small room with a two-drink minimum. There are a lot of people doing interesting stuff, especially overseas in Australia. I don't know why but they're just funnier and less self-absorbed about it. I like a cabaret that moves me around through emotions. Too much sweet music is like too much candy on Halloween. So, New York cabaret doesn't inspire me anymore, not at the moment. I want to see funny, bawdy, poignant and beautiful work -- not just hear beautiful singing. In fact, I think that's one thing that makes cabaret AMAZING -- you don't have to be the world's best soprano or loudest tenor to have an impact in cabaret. You just have to have something to say.

NMJW: What can people expect to experience in your class?

DMc: We'll have a mix of singing and non-singing activities. I won't be critiquing the singing (much!). Mostly, I'm interested in helping people draw out their stories and tell them in compelling ways. I'm eager to help them tap into their own charisma and sense of stagecraft to make it happen within the length of a song. I think we'll be pushing some boundaries and creativity buttons (but all safely) and I think we're going to have a lot of fun!

NMJW: (Anything you want to say about the class, the style the work??)

DMc: Please only sign up if you want to work, learn, take risks, grow and transform your life. How's that for subtle?

NMJW: Thanks, Deian!

DMc: Thank you, Marya!

Cabaret! Instructor: Deian McBryde Mondays, starting March 22 through April 26th $90 General $75 NMJW members (and APS teachers) For more information check our website:

www.nmjazz.org

Jazz Camp 2010!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 21:09:00 +0000

Summer is on the way! Get your kid signed up for Jazz Camp TODAY!

March is the unofficial beginning of the parental quest to find the right summer camp that best fits the budget and the child. Jazz Camp, now in its sixteenth year, is one of New Mexico’s premier summer education programs, and a mainstay for many Duke City families. Jazz Camp is the solution for parents seeking an exciting arts program that not only keeps their children engaged during the summer, but offers them a well-rounded, eclectic mix of activities to nourish their creativity.

“Our Jazz Camp allows kids to explore various aspects of the creative arts,” says Maud Beenhouwer, Executive Director of New Mexico Jazz Workshop. “For parents looking to discover the budding talents of their children, Jazz Camp is an excellent opportunity.”

Parents seeking a creative opportunity for their children at a price that they can manage will find both at Jazz Camp. “The cost of camp is the same as 2009,” Beenhouwer says. “We hope that parents find our camp one of the more affordable choices, and a great value for their money.” “We also have a limited number of scholarships for families in need.”

To go to the Jazz Camp registration form, click HERE.

Jazz is in the heart

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 19:18:00 +0000

Valentine's Day LOOMS-- a ticking clock, a dripping faucet, a weighty reminder of loneliness for the lovelorn, a stress point for those who'd better get it right this year or else. Don't wait until the last minute on that, people. You know what'll happen if you do.

Maybe we all could use something soothing right now. As it's a little too early for cocktails in this time zone, enjoy the Miles Davis Quartet while you ponder what to do for your valentine:

Good luck to the love-struck!

NMJW

It's gettin' kinda KOSMIC at the Jazz Workshop

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:13:00 +0000

Here's the deal:

We have this new FANTASTIC series coming up called, Jazz, Deconstructed. Sure, it's not happening until Spring, but you know, why wait to blog tomorrow what you could blog about today? Anyway, with Jazz, Deconstructed, we're going into the wilds of jazz through the thickets and thorny wood. "What do you mean?" You might ask.

Hmm. . .

Watch this video of the Charleston performed by the famous Al & Leon:

Great, right? Now, watch it again. Yes again. This time with Daft Punk over-dub:

That's Jazz . . . Deconstructed. Same song, same soul,beats PERSONIFIED. Jazz, Decontructed is:Amani Malaika & Luis Guerra-- April 7th, Resonance w/Patti Littlefield & Mark Weaver-- April 14th,Joy Harjo-- April 21st, Christian Pincock-- April 28thNow, you may not know that we have had to find a new place to do our series. It's a long story,drizzled in unfortunate events,but there's a happy ending,we assure you.We love the folks at q-Staff-- their Open Eye Cafettewas the perfect place for JD. If you're curious as to know why we're moving house on this series, read this.Here's the good part: we're moving the series toThe Kosmos the newest warehouse-turned-art space, located near downtown Burque.Chances are you already know where this place is-- if you take your Sunday prayers at the Church of Beethoven.

In their own words,The Kosmos has, "breathtaking acoustics, exposed brick and wooden ceiling beams, a central location near I-40 to make The Kosmos Albuquerque's most unique arts and events venue."

We agree.

See ya there!

Evening jazz class is the new HAPPY HOUR!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:04:00 +0000

Looking for a fun way to ward off the winter blues? Drag that instrument out of the closet, or grab the sheet music to a song you've always craved the confidence to sing and take a class at New Mexico Jazz Workshop. This winter NMJW introduces Cabaret! with Deian McBryde, a recent Manhattan transplant, cabaret artist and director of Nob Hill Yoga. “We're very excited about Deian,” Amani Malaika, NMJW Education Coordinator says. “Deian was also the only singer listed as one of America's "MEN WE LOVE" by Girlfriends Magazine, along with Antonio Banderas, Malaika adds. As the instructor of a course that draws out one's natural charisma, Malaika says, “Deian's the right diva for the job!”

From divas to digital music-- NMJW offers two down-and-dirty workshops in audio recording with Luis Guerra, and Larry Mitchell, two award-winning producers who take the mystery out of digital technology, offering you great tools of the trade in real time. Veteran Jazz and Blues guitarist Dan Dowling teaches a course in blues guitar, Christian Pincock leads the Community Big Band and Lewis Winn offers the standard Modern Jazz Ensemble class, with a few new twists.

Also new to NMJW is Beginning Music Theory & Ear Training with Cora Harms. This course offers a solid foundation in music theory for instrumentalists and singers alike. You may want to put that listening to work in Rodolfo Gonzalez's Latin Jazz & Improvisation class, or try singing a new tune in the Vocal Jazz class with Patty Stephens. And, don't forget Real Book Jam, where you can practice all that you've learned in class, play some sentimental favorites, and learn a few new songs, in a relaxed atmosphere. NMJW is the place to be on a cold winter's week night (Saturdays, too!)

For more information visit the website: www.nmjazz.org.

NMJW in 2010!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:29:00 +0000

Hello Jazz Workshop friends!

We've been moving straight ahead with a bullet! New Mexico Jazz Stories was a GREAT success. So much so that we had a hard time keeping with with blogging about it! Tommy Gearhart, Micheal Anthony and Bobby Shew had well-attended performances at the Cooperage! We look forward to bringing you the next volume of New Mexico Jazz Stories next fall!

This fall's Yule Stuttin' was great fun, as usual! On December 5th we met at the Albuquerque Art Museum and had quite the shindig. The proceeds for the event go to our education programs, like our latest program housed at the Juvenile Detention Center was devised by the NMJW education director, Amani Malaika. Channel 13 did a little story on it last week. Here's link to the spot:

http://www.krqe.com/dpp/news/education/jazz-workshop-helps-at-jail

***

Can you believe it's already mid-December?? We're already in the throws of planning events and classes for 2010! Just visit our website for the latest in classes for adult and teens, as well as the music events we have planned for the coming year. Youth Orchestra begins January 17th, Adult Education classes start in mid-February. Also in February we're proud to present the Albuquerque Jazz Orchestra under the Direction of Bobby Shew, featuring jazz trumpeter Scott Wendholt.

Albuquerque Jazz Orchestra

under the direction of Bobby Shew

Featuring trumpeter Scott Wendholt

February 20, 2010

El Dorado High School Performing Arts Center

8pm Tickets $15 General,

$10 Members/Students/Seniors

Here's a little something on Scott:

Trumpeter Scott Wendholt has recorded and/or worked with artists including Vincent Herring, Kenny Garrett, Cyrus Chestnut, Christian McBride, Don Braden and Bruce Barth. To his credit, Scott has been recorded on more than sixty CD's. He has received critical acclaim as a leader and 5 recordings as a leader. Much in demand on the big band scene as well, his list of credits include: The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra (formerly Thad Jones/Mel Lewis), Manhattan Jazz Orchestra, The Carnegie Hall Jazz Band (led by Jon Faddis), John Fedchock NY Big Band, Gotham Jazz Orachestra (Mike Holober), Toshiko Akiyoshi Big Band and the Bob Mintzer Big Band.

Mr. Wendholt continues to be in demand on the playing scene as well as in the educational arena. Scott is currently on the faculty at the Manhattan School of Music as well as the Jamey Aebersold summer jazz camps. He is also in demand as a player/clinician in many colleges and various other learning institutions around the world.

You can buy your tickets online!

Buy tickets for Albuquerque Jazz Orchestra with Special Guest Scott Wendholt

See you at the AJO/Wendholt gig, and have a happy, SAFE Holiday!

That's all for now, folks. More to come!

New Mexico Jazz Stories Week Two!

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 20:11:00 +0000

Hello New Mexico Jazz Workshop friends,

We're moving STRAIGHT AHEAD with our programming this Fall! Check out our Fall/Winter brochure, The Season of Sound for a full list of events coming up for NMJW. Last week, we launched New Mexico Jazz Stories at the Cooperage. Week one featured saxophonist Glenn Kostur-- he took us back to his childhood and the first song that he learned. Along with his band for the evening (Stu MacAskie on piano, Milo Jaramillo on bass and John Bartlit on drums) Glenn performed music he loves, and several original tunes from his discography. The night was just what we wanted out of a Jazz Stories evening: memories and melodies. Here's a little snippet from the show:

On Wednesday, October 28th, we welcome Larry Mitchell to the Cooperage and New Mexico Jazz Stories.

(Photo by Karen Kuehn)

Larry Mitchell is an international solo artist, sideman, songwriter and Grammy-Winning music producer. As a solo artist, Larry has released six guitar instrumental records which met with significant critical acclaim. The albums range from mellow acoustic to scorching rock arrangements. In 1999 Larry was awarded the much coveted The San Diego Music Awards Best Pop Jazz artist and in 1986 and 1987 won the New Your City Limelight Guitar solo contest.

As a sideman, Mitchell toured as guitarist for a wide range of musical artists including: Tracy Chapman, Billy Squier, Ric Ocasek as well as being a band member of "the Crunch" (T.M Stevens Bernie Worrell, Crystal Talefero and Tony Smith) Currently Larry has been performing live with two-time Grammy-Winner Taos Pueblo Native American artist Robert Mirabal as well as the much celebrated Muskogee Creek Native American artist Joy Harjo. Larry shares song-writing credits with Steve Vai and Thomas McRocklin on the "Bad for Good" Album and with Brian Hard Groove (Public Enemy) and Bootsy Collins on the song "It Is What It Is" on Bootsy's upcoming release. .As a producer, Larry has won many production and engineering awards in various categories such as Adult contemporary, Pop, R&B, and Rap. Most recently Larry Mitchell, won a 2008 Grammy for Co-producing the album "Totemic Flute Chants" Johnny Whitehorse in the Native American category.

Larry performs at New Mexico Jazz Stories with a handful of world-class musicians. On drums is Erik Hargrove. Erik played drums for JAMES BROWN, hello. Erik drums for Bootsy Collins as well. Maud Beenhouwer, Executive Director of NMJW is wicked on bass, and though she's not one to toot her own . . . bass, Maud is an incredible performer and collaborator. Larry welcomes a few special guests to the stage to showcase his collaborations including one of the leading musicians in Native American Contemporary music today, Shelley Morningsong and folk favorite Eileen Meyer.

New Mexico Jazz Stories

an evening with some of New Mexico's finest musicians

Wednesday, October 28th @ 7pm

The Cooperage, 7220 Lomas BLVD.

Tickets are $10 general, $8 NMJW Members, Students, Seniors

For more information, call us! 505-255-9798

NMJW presents new jazz series

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 22:39:00 +0000

Hello New Mexico Jazz Workshop friends!

Hard to believe the summer is coming to an end! Kids are back in school, the weather is changing. Just when you thought Monday Night Football would become the highlight of your week, we've come up with a NEW JAZZ SERIES to get you out of the house!

Life is an improvisation, a mixed tape, an unfinished work-- and no one knows that better than the five professional musicians NMJW has lined up for New Mexico Jazz Stories. They've played everywhere, from juke joints to concert halls, for sophisticated, international audiences, to salty bar flies in dives. Not only have Glenn Kostur, Larry Mitchell, Tommy Gearhart, Michael Anthony and Bobby Shew collected frequent flyer miles, they've collected stories throughout their colorful journeys, and they plan to share them with the New Mexico Jazz Stories audience for the first time.

Glenn Kostur is the first artist in the series on October 21st. Kostur is Director of Jazz Studies at the University of New Mexico. Glenn has performed with such jazz artists as Dizzy Gillespie, Billy Eckstine, the Woody Herman Orchestra, among others. On October 28th, Larry Mitchell, the jet-setting guitar virtuoso performs. A Grammy Award-winning producer, Larry has played with the likes of Tracey Chapman, Joy Harjo, Robert Mirabal. He's a world traveling musician, clinician, and a spokesman for Ibanez Guitars. Tommy Gearhart on vox, will perform on November 4th. Gearhart is a classic crooner with a modern sensibility. You'll enjoy the stories of this Ohio native who has established deep, New Mexican roots.

Guitarist Michael Anthony is a musician's musician. On November 11th, Michael shares his trials and tribulations as studio artist for some of the biggest names in the business. Anthony has played guitar professionally since 1960, and can be heard on the albums of Tony Bennett, Nelson Riddle, The Beach Boys, Diana Ross, and many, many more. World-class trumpeter Bobby Shew brings a type of magic to the stage on November 18th. Winner of the Grammy for Jazz Album of the Year in 1983 (Heavy Company), Bobby played with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, Woody Herman's band, and spent several years as a lead musician in Las Vegas. Perhaps he will tell you his Wayne Newton story. You'll have to be there to find out.

NMJW presents

New Mexico Jazz Stories

October 21th- November 18th @ 7pm

The Cooperage

7220 Lomas NE

Tickets $10 general $8 nmjw members/seniors/students

Series pass available!

Felipe Ruibal y Quemozo TOMORROW NIGHT at Salsa Under the Stars

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:09:00 +0000

Hello friends!

We're gearing up for another weekend of great music, Under the Stars! We thought we'd whet your appetite for Salsa Under the Stars with a little number from Felipe Ruibal y Quemozo.

And don't forget- tomorrow marks a milestone for the band-- a NEW EP RELEASE! Support local music,

snag a CD before there're all gone!!!

Interview with Tommy Gearhart, PART I

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:28:00 +0000

Tommy Gearhart. TOMMY GEARHART. Even the rhythm of his name has an air of sophistication. It's easy to imagine the statuesque Mr. Gearhart in the background of every black and white photo of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis, Jr. swirling a martini, tie undone after a long night of giving the Bellagio all he's got.

If you've heard Tommy's velvety tunes, at Vernon's for instance, then you know this guy means business. Old school business. He's a man about town, a go-getter, a hep cat and that's a fact. What you may not know about Tommy is that he's the guy next door. He's a Mid-Western fellow from Toledo, Ohio-- he's married with kids. He works hard. He's dedicated to the things that matter to him. Tommy is so dedicated to the eradication of Mulitiple Sclerosis that Tommy is nearly single-handedly presenting HEALING, HARMONY, & HEART a benefit concert in September featuring his mentor and 7-time Grammy award winning jazz legend, Jon Hendricks, along with his good friend, concert pianist, Awadagin Pratt because someone had to do it.

When Tommy says he's going to do something, he does it, and he does it big, even if that means dragging a hulking Hammond organ to your house. When we sat down to talk to Tommy about his upcoming gig at Jazz Under the Stars, he made us promise to get it straight and tell it all-- it's gonna take two blog entries, but Tommy, we won't let you down. Here, Tommy talks about the band, the Hammond B3 and his life-time love of the instrument.

[TG]

Please emphasize the importance and my great appreciation and collaboration with the musicians on this project, along with giving a shout-out to my longtime bassist, Dan Spanogle and drummer David Edwards, who are outstanding local jazz musicians and friends.

[MJ]

Sure thing. Tell us about the band.

[TG]

The band is Tony Cesarano on guitar, Steve Figueora on Hammond Organ, Chase Ellison on drums. "It's a pretty diverse band-- age, experience, approach-- it makes it unique. Tony is my primary collaborator. He grew up in the Bronx jazz scene. He just has an infinite sense of harmony. And, Bobby Shew just signed on to play with us-- we just had a smokin' rehearsal the other night!

[MJ]

Why the Hammond Organ for this project?

[TG]

I was a jazz drummer, sitting in and listening to some great organ players. It's the instrument that most articulates the sound of the blues within the context of jazz and how complicated it gets--that's the Hammond B3 organ.

[MJ]

So let me ask you this-- what has to go into the organ? What gets drawn from the fingers and the mind into that sound? Because when you hear that organ it conjures up an idea, you know, and you know exactly where to go to have that experience, that memory. How do you put that into the instrument?

[TG]

Well, Steve Figeruoa is the most soulful guy living here, and he's an amazingly competent jazz musician.

You listen to him. He was saying once that he was playing at the Telluride Jazz Festival when Clark Terry the famous jazz trumpeter sat in with the band. And, in the middle of his solo he looks back at Steve and says, "Maaaan, you sound like you been eatin' chitlin's!" And so that'll let you know about Steve. Steve said, "Well, I've been eating some menudo." He [Steve ] said that was one of the greatest compliments he's ever had as a player, because he does sound like he understands this music at the highest level.

[MJ]

Tell us more.

[TG]

When I started this project, I told Steve, "Be at my house tomorrow with your pick-up truck." He said oh what are you talkin about, Tommy. I said, I WANT YOU TO MEET ME AT MY HOUSE WITH YOUR PICK-UP TRUCK TOMORROW, you can ask Steve about this. He shows up with the pick-up truck, he doesn't know what the hell's going on. . . oh no, here goes Tommy, again. You know what we did? We loaded my A100 which is mostly the same as the Hammond B3, into his truck, drove it to his house and put it at the end of his bed. He's been playing it for about four, five, six hours a day. Not that he's not a great pianist. But being a pianist just doesn't translate to the organ. It's a whole 'nother level.

[MJ]

It's different than playing the piano.

[TG] I mean, we're listening to John Patten right now [in his studo]. [Hammond B3] is one of the first synthesized instruments made to recreate the sound of an enormous, monstrous pip organ. I've listened to Steve talk about his hardships in learning to play this instrument. I mean, with a piano you can barely hit it, you can control that dynamic, press it down and let up-- [the sound] decays. With the organ, when your finger comes up it's over, it's DONE. There's no sustain on it. Then there's all these settings, designed to recreate the sound of the pipe organ-- you'll recognize a lot of these settings within jazz, from the church. You know, like this is where the preacher gets up, he's asking for money-- there's a setting for that. All those guys like Jimmy Smith talk about the settings.

Also, and this is what's beautiful, I had a conversation with Steve once-- he said if I could do it all over man, I would play the bass, and I said, "Why would you play the bass?" He said, I would just walk like Ray Brown, just BE THERE-- it's the most thankless instrument. Steve's father, was a great bassist. His name was Conrad Figueroa, you know, very famous guy in the genres that he played. Steve said, I would just be there for the band, and just do it. People don't do that anymore. So that was feeding into me-- I thought, yeah, I've got the instrument for you. You want to be a bassist? You have to be a bassist and learn to become a bassist with your left hand, when you were just used to playing chords. Steve has had to learn to be that bassist he always wanted to be, on top of all the other stuff he has to deal with, playing the Hammond. You're playing with your hands, your foot . . . it's like a marriage between being a drummer, a pianist and a trumpeter-- that's what the organ was intended to create. An orchestra. It's an incredibly soulful instrument when it's played right.

Look for PART II of this interview on Friday. And don't miss the concert on Saturday evening.

[Marya Errin Jones]

Hot Weekend Under the Stars

noreply@blogger.com (New Mexico Jazz Workshop) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 22:35:00 +0000

Hello there!

We are SO LOOKING FORWARD to this weekend of Salsa and Jazz Under the Stars!

On Friday, we welcome Calle 66 back to the Albuquerque Museum Amphitheater @ 7pm.

Calle 66 reads like a varitable who's who of musicians on the New Mexico scene, and their salsa tunes are burn-your-mouth hot.

Get there at 6:30 and take a FREE SALSA LESSON with a professional instructor! There were 30 people on the dance floor for the lesson last week! It's a blast, not at all scary, and you'll learn a few new steps, so why not??

On Saturday, don't miss Transit Latin Jazz Ensemble! This concert is a reunion of sorts. Former NMJW director Ed Ulman, Amicar Guevara and Barret Martin are all flying in from far-flug locales to do this show, and we're glad for it!

If you didn't here a Maud talking up the band on KUNM the other day,Transit Latin Jazz Ensemble combines the rhythms of Afro-Cuban jazz, Brazilian fusion and Bossa Nova. It's going to be a great concert! Hey, we don't want to neglect our local heroes Rodolfo Gonzalez, Maud Beenhouwer also members of Transit, and Glenn Kostur and Cesar Bauvallet who are lending their artistry to the line-up. It's going to be a great evening under the stars!

And, don't forget about Sunday Jam Sessions at Seasons! This week it's the Rodolfo Gonzalez Quartet, Sunday, August 9th @ 7:30 pm! Get there early-- you know how that lovely, intimate patio can fill up in a heart beat!

Have a great weekend, whatever you're up to! We hope to see you at the Museum, Under the Stars!