Current Events

So tomorrow is (barring any crazy problem) my last day of my undergraduate study!  This is a terribly exciting time as I feel I will find more time to work on music and leave the other things (finishing that paper for tomorrow's class) behind.  I've recently begun a study on Freddie Hubbard and just finished learning his solo on "It's You Or No One" from Dexter Gordon's "Doin' Allright" album.  Freddie takes two POWERFUL choruses on this particular recording and it was a joy (albeit a quick one) to transcribe such a powerhouse. 

One thing that I picked out of this solo so far is that Freddie's lines are so CLEAN.  He doesn't stumble over himself in the least bit, and trust me, he's playing some deep stuff.

I'll have the PDF of the transcription available to anyone who wants it either tomorrow or Sunday.

Someone may be asking "Well Joe, why not Saturday?"  I'll tell you why.  Tomorrow at 4:25, I will be leaving with my friend Jerry Parsons on a plane to Kansas City to play at the Kansas City Italian Festival...or something like that, with Ray Massa's Eurorhythms.  I've never been to Kansas City but have heard good things, so this should be a pretty enjoyable trip.  Maybe some pics will be added when I come back...if you're lucky :)

An achievement...

Hello all!

Tonight I received the Ruth Friscoe Prize for Jazz Composition for the 2nd time in my collegiate career for my composition and large ensemble arrangement of "The Judge." I'm using the monetary scholarship that came with the award to save up for a personal practice room when I move to New Jersey/NYC.

Check it out! www.whisperroom.com