January 31, 2012, Panama Hotel, San Rafael – Fun gig last night at the Panama with Erik Von Buchau on drums and new musician friend Eric Vogler on bass. Really enjoyed playing with both of them! Thank you to the Panama staff for being so kind and caring of the musicians, they definitely took great care of us.
January 13, 2012, Yoshis, SF- Very entertaining energetic gig last night at Yoshis in SF! Some of the highlights from the night were having Yoshi (the owner of both SF and Oakland) dance to our music and having one of my childhood best friends come to the gig to hear us play. My side of the family and friends and my wife’s side of the family and friends were all their to support us and it meant the world to me and my wife to have them their listening and encouraging us all night. I think the crowd was really into the music, not only clapping at the end of every song, but showing love after each solo as well. The crowd was amazing! Was happy to have Erik Von Buchau sit in at the gig and play two sets with us. I think he added a tremendous amount to the group. As always, Ken Cook and Doug Miller, tore it up all night and really sounded great. Another highlight for me was getting to hear and play with my wife, Christine. She sang, “Black Coffee,” A Nightengale sang in Berkeley Square,” and “Besame Mucho.” She sounded really great and I was so proud of her getting up there, after not having sung in a long time, and making her debut, of all places, Yoshis. Great night of music and I really hope I can get a monthly gig here, as it is by far, my favorite place to play. Go 49ers, beat the Saints!!!
December 29, 2011, Yoshis, SF-What an amazing venue at Yoshis in SF. By far the best gig I have ever played. The audience was engaged and listening to every song, as well as showing support after solos and at the end of each song. The staff was very accommodating in tending to our food needs as well as making sure we were all doing well. The venue itself is very classy, clean and a place you’d want to play every chance you can get. It was overall an excellent experience playing at Yoshis and I can’t wait to come back and play on the 13th. Be sure to check us out from 6-9. The gig will feature Ken Cook on piano and Doug Miller on bass. Happy New Year!
December 23, 2011, Max’s Deli, Corte Madera – Fun night at a new venue; Max’s Deli. I really enjoyed the ambience and especially enjoyed playing with Jason Carr on bass and Niels Myrner on drums. I think we have a real connection musically, and I love being able to play with them. My students sat in second set, and I was very proud of everyone’s effort. Here is the list of kids who played: Maggie Smith, Isabel Lee and Tomi Rajninger played Watermelon Man, Jericho Rajninger played Cantaloupe Island, Gordon Evans played Yardbird Suite, Sean McGee played Milestones, Everett Magnusson played Blue Train and Delaney Benstead played Stolen Moments. What impresses me so much about these students is their courage and bravery to stand in front of a large crowd and play the music that they love. So proud to be their teacher! Come check out the trio at Yoshi’s in SF, next Thursday, going to be an amazing night of music.
December 10, 2011, Osteria Divino, Sausalito – Going into this gig, I had no idea that it would be my last one with Daniel Fusco. Little did I know, but Daniel has been planning on moving to Oregon, and that night would be our last together as a group. Daniel is such a positive spirit and someone who I really enjoyed spending time with playing together. I’m going to miss him very much, but I know he will be a huge success in Oregon. Can’t wait to hear the cd from the night of recording and music making.
December 9, 2011, Servino’s, Tiburon – High energy fun gig last night at Servino’s with Doug Miller and Erik Von Buchau. It was my first time playing with Erik and I really enjoyed his playing. He has a great connection with Doug and they made the tunes burn all night with their playing. Look forward to the next time I get a chance to play with both of them. Come check out the Daniel Fusco Quartet tonight (Dec. 10 @ 8:00) at Cafe Divino with myself on sax, Ken Cook on piano, Daniel Fusco on bass and Mark Bernfield on drums. Should be a very fun night of music!
December 3, 2011 – Just got my tenor back from Lee’s Sax Work’s in the city, after a long overhaul. What a job Lee Kramka did on the horn, as well as his assistant Don. They really turned a horn that was quite beat up into a work of art. Very thankful to them for the job that they did and for the care that they put into it. Can’t wait to play it on my next gig!
November 4, 2011, Servino’s, Tiburon – What a night of music with Jason Carr and Bryan Bowman at Servino’s last night. There weren’t many people at the restaurant, but we had such a wonderful time playing with one another, that the lack of applause (on the last two sets) didn’t matter one bit. I feel very blessed as a musician to play with such excellent musicians who have great sets of ears and musicianship that is second to none. There’s nothing like a great night of music to lift your spirits in a world that is so filled with negativity and hate. Music is a beautiful thing! Can’t wait to listen to and post the recordings from last night.
September 24, 2011, Servino’s, Tiburon – Great gig last night with Marcia Miget on piano, sax, and flute, Jason Carr on bass and Bryan Bowman on drums. It was my first time playing with Bryan and I can really tell why he is such an in demand drummer in the bay area, great player! Jason was laying down funky bass lines and very creative solo ideas all night, and Marcia just really played her rear end off all night. What a treat it was to be reunited with my former private teacher and great friend Marcia on a gig where we could be very open and free. The second set where she played sax and flute was burning! She had the crowd glued to her every lick, loving every second of it. I’m very proud to have Marcia as a mentor and more importantly as a great friend. Can’t wait to play out again, wherever that may be!
August 13, 2011, Marin Rod and Gun Club, San Rafael – Unique venue for the Starduster Orchestra and Rat Pack Summit to play for the night. Right on the water next to San Quentin with beautiful ocean views. As usual, I really enjoyed playing with the Rat Pack members, who add so much to the show. The audience danced to our music for the rest of the night, and all in all it was a fun time!
July 1, 2011, Creekside Friday’s, Mill Valley – Fun gig in Mill Valley with the Starduster Orchestra right on the creek. Great audience; I was very happy to see family members their as well as friends. Look forward to the next time I play out in public with the group again.
June 24, 2011, Tiburon Downtown Music Series, Tiburon – What a pleasure to play with Noam Lemish again. I haven’t played with him for years, as he pursues his masters degree in composition from the University of Toronto. Man, did he sound great! Also, it was really great to be able to play with Jason Carr and Alex Aspinall again, it’s been way too long. I think the group played very well together and listened to each other very well also. Hopefully, I can get some more gigs this summer so that I can play with Noam again, before he goes back to Toronto for the year.
June 12, 2011, Strawberry Festival, Mill Valley – Nice hour of music poolside in the beautiful neighborhood of Strawberry with two phenomenal musicians: Ken Cook and Doug Miller. We called tunes we felt like playing and related very well to one another. I appreciate being able to make music with such talented musicians and even better guys.
June 5, 2011, George’s, San Rafael – Fun gig last night with Mike Wray. It was cool to see young kids playing instruments and having a good time. I was impressed by the newly remodeled club that I had never seen before. Would definitely be interested in playing a gig there with my group at some point.
May 13, 2011, Servino Ristorante, Tiburon – Another great night of music this time as a trio with Doug Miller on bass and Niels Myrner on drums. Lots of freedom and space to go wherever the music took us. I purposely chose some modal tunes to get a chance for the guys to go where they were feeling like the music wanted to take them. I really enjoy playing with guys like Doug and Niels, who musically are at the top of their game, great personalities, very humble, and listen and react very well. This tends to make for excellent gigs with lots of positive energy and beautiful music making. Really enjoy knowing these guys and communicating with them musically. My wife should be going into delivery in about one and a half to two weeks, so we’re gearing up for that, and very excited. Our first baby girl Gianna, is thrilled to be having a baby sister coming into our lives! She needs a play partner to get into trouble with besides our boxer Bella.
April 23, 2011, Servino Ristorante, Tiburon – What an excellent night of music at Servino’s last night. Ken Cook, Doug Miller and Niels Myrner brought so much musicianship to the night that the challenge of playing tougher tunes was not as hard. Such soulful playing on every song and I felt like we all fed off of one another and really said something with our playing. I can’t wait to put this group together again and continue to vibe with these three very talented players and even nicer guys.
April 2, 2011, Marines Memorial Theater, San Francisco – Definitely my favorite gig playing with the Starduster (well, a sextet of the group). It was really nice to be able to hear all the instruments blending and harmonizing with one another. There was a very relaxed mood set off by the leader Gordon (trombone) who made it a very easy and enjoyable gig to play. It was also refreshing to get a chance to improvise and hear others improvise on those fun older tunes.
March 31, 2011, The Tavern at Lark Creek, Larkspur – Fun night of music with Daniel Fusco on bass and Mark Bernfield on drums. I chose tunes from a brand new book called the Real Book Volume 4, which in my opinion is definitely one of the best jazz books out there. Just about every tune in the book of five hundred or so, is very fun to play. My students from Hall sat in during the second set and played: Tanner Jacobberger, 6th grade, tenor sax, “Straight Life,” Nolan Van Dine, 8th grade, trombone, “Georgia on my mind,” Jack Ransick, 6th grade, alto sax, “Cousin Mary,” Nathan Sterne, 6th grade, trombone, “Jive Samba,” Reese Osborn, 7th grade, tenor sax, “Doxy,” and Delaney Benstead, 7th grade, alto sax, “Songbird.” Great choices of tunes and as usual I was so impressed by the improvement that I continue to hear from every musician who came up to play. There is this confidence about their playing that is so evident and very refreshing to see. That fact that they take advantage of the chance to play with professional musicians as middle school students, shows their maturity and drive to become better musicians. I love to see that! Looking forward to playing with the Starduster Sextet tomorrow in the city.
March 23, 2011, Embassy Suites, San Rafael – Another fun night at the Cotillion Ball with the Starduster Orchestra. I recognized four or five students their that night and was impressed to see them all dressed up and dancing the night away. Looking forward to playing at the Tavern next week.
March 5, 2011, Cafe Divino, Sausalito – Great night of music with the Daniel Fusco Quartet featuring Erik Lindquist on guitar, Daniel on bass and Mark Bernfield on drums. Wonderful support all night from the audience; it was really nice to see Michael Lamacchia their, and as usual he was very enthusiastic and appreciative of the music. That dude is a class act!!! Overall, a very fun night to be a part of and I was very thankful to be able to play with the group again.
February 26, 2011, The Showroom NIghtclub, San Francisco – What a blast of a gig last night with Johnny Vegas and the High Rollers. We played opening night of this club off of Van Ness and had the audience dancing for three straight hours of energetic music. I really enjoyed playing with all the musicians in the group and especially dug playing with the horn section made up of Chris Barnes on trumpet and Chris Lege on trombone. Hopefully I’ll get a chance to play with this fun group again!
February 18, 2011, Servino Ristorante, Tiburon – Nice night of music yesterday with Erik Lindquist on guitar, Jason Carr on bass and Niels Myrner on drums. As usual, I called some challenging pieces that you don’t typically hear or play on gigs, but the guys did a great job. We had some nice moments where we were all locked in and really said something with our solos. It was also nice to see some of my families from school coming out to the gig to support the group. All in all, a nice night!
February 16, 2011, The Tavern at Lark Creek Inn, Larkspur – Great gig last night with Alex Aspinall on drums and Piro Patton on bass. We played some newer tunes that they both did an excellent job of sight-reading and really saying something with their playing. I enjoyed the cozy environment of the Tavern and it felt very inviting and supportive of the music. Hopefully this gig will become a monthly event! Second set; my students and parents from Hall, packed the joint. This was definitely the biggest night of student “sit ins” that we’ve ever had, in comparison to Benissimo’s. The students who participated were: Tanner Jacobberger (6th grade, tenor), “Work Song,” Gordon Evans (6th grade, alto), “Summertime,” Sean McGee (5th grade, bass), “Watermelon Man,” Reese Osborn (7th grade, tenor), “On the sunny side of the street,” Delaney Benstead (7th grade, alto), “In walked bud,” Miles Johnson (7th grade, guitar), “Bemsha swing,” and Evan Miyawaki (8th grade, alto), “Lonnie’s Lament.”
February 11, 2011, Marines Memorial Theater, San Francisco – I was pleased to be able to play this gig again. Great audience dancing all night (literally) with lots of support for the music. All in all, an excellent night! Looking forward to playing at the Tavern this Wednesday.
February 4, 2011, Cafe Divino, Sausalito – Another meaningful night of music produced by leader Daniel Fusco, featuring Matthew Heulitt on guitar, Mark Bernfield on drums, Daniel on bass and myself on sax. Lots of funky, avant garde, jazz inspired sounds came out tonight and I really enjoyed being a part of it. Looking forward to the next opportunity we have together.
January 21, 2011, Cafe Divino, Sausalito – Excellent group put together by leader Daniel Fusco: myself on sax, Ken Cook on piano, Mark Bernfield on drums and Daniel Fusco on bass. Freedom was the idea of the night and the connection we all made with one another was quite special. I really appreciated Daniel’s message to us as a group; play what you feel and there are no boundaries, go where the music takes us! Those are the type of gigs and groups that I love being a part of. Can’t wait to play with this group again!
January 8, 2011, Jazz Appreciation Party, Novato – Fun night of music with the Carr brothers (Jason and Tim) and their family and friends. It’s the first Jazz Appreciation party that I have ever played, but to be able to share music with an audience who actually appreciates and understands what they are hearing, was very refreshing. If only some of the crowds that we play for on a regular basis could be half of appreciative of the music as this audience was, the energy amongst the musicians and crowd would be elevated. Looking forward to playing with the Daniel Fusco Quartet at Cafe Divino (Sausalito) in a few weeks.
December 17, 2010, Claremont Country Club, Oakland – Beautiful setting for a swingin big band. The audience was dancing and enjoying the music all night and they were having so much fun, they asked us to play another set. All in all, a very fun night (minus the horrible traffic getting there) of music and holiday spirit!
December 3, 2010, Servino’s, Tiburon – Terrific night of music! With such talented musicians as Michael Lamacchia (guitar), Piro Patton (bass) and Niels Myrner (drums), their definitely were some special magical moments. It was my first time playing with Mike and second time playing with Piro, and it was a real pleasure to hear their unique ideas on some challenging fun tunes. I think we all vibed very well together and payed homage to the musicians that inspire us to play. It’s very nice to play with musicians who listen and communicate well together. I especially appreciated the consistent support and kind comments that we all shared with one another. At times, some musicians now a days can get wrapped up in their own playing and not care to listen or compliment other members in the group, but I think it goes a long way for a musicians confidence to be supportive and kind. There are times when we as musicians can really beat ourselves up about our playing, so to hear that some things that you work really hard on are sounding hip, boosts the confidence in a positive yet humble way! I was also very impressed by the audience tonight. Most audiences never listen, nor clap or show any support for the music. Tonight the audience were a group of educated listeners who gave us positive vibes all night with their support for nice solos and cool tunes. I can’t wait to play with this group again!
November 17, 2010, Belvedere Cotillion, Embassy Suites, San Rafael – Fun gig with the Starduster Orchestra at the Embassy Suites. This was my second year performing and it was nice to see some of my middle school students out their dancing. Looking forward to the December gig at the Clairmont in Berkeley.
November 13, 2010, Standing Ovation 10, Breast Cancer Awareness Benefit, JCC, San Rafael, – We really went out with a bang for this last show benefiting breast cancer research in Marin County. This was the 10th year that the show (my 4th or 5th) has performed and it has been a very fun experience and more importantly really vital in helping women who suffer from this awful experience. I enjoyed getting a chance to perform with my wife as well as other talented singers and members of the band: Jack Pribble on guitar, Carrick Montague and Chris Campinello on drums. All of our family was their to witness the event and I was very proud to perform for them. My parents also bid and won a trip to Kauai, so looks like we’re headed there next year, can’t wait!!!
October 14, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Great show last night with Jason Carr on bass, Alex Aspinall on drums and myself on piano. It was really nice to be able to play with these guys again, as they really raise the level of music to a very high level. Its a fun challenge for me, for someone whose not playing their main instrument (piano) on a gig, I have to bring my “A” game on every tune to try to maintain the level. On top of my own group, many of my students came ready to play last night. Miles Johnson (guitar) played, “Contemplation,” Nolan Van Dine (trombone) played, “Work Song,” John Strand (drums) played, “Cold Duck Time,” Andrew Sterne (sax) played, “Memories of Tomorrow,” and Delaney Benstead played, “Yardbird Suite.” The kids did a fantastic job and really showed their steady rapid improvement throughout the year. I am very proud of them! Last night I recorded all of the students performances, and will soon post them to the website.
September 30, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – After coming home Wednesday night from the show at Yoshi’s, I was ready to pay homage to Coltrane at this gig. With songs like, “Ole,” and “After the Rain,” I tried my best to capture the magic that I felt the night before at Yoshi’s. Trevor Kinsel on bass and Trent Boeschen on drums did a great job and we had a fun time vibing with one another. Two of my students came to play as well: Miles Johnson (guitar) played, “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy,” and Delaney Benstead (alto sax) played, “Song for my father.” Both did a wonderful job and I think the next step for this sit in gig opportunity, is to record the kids playing and put it up on the website for all to hear.
September 29, 2010, Anthony Brown’s Asian American Jazz Orchestra @ Yoshis, San Francisco – I went to this performance to support my good friend Marcia Miget who was playing flute, alto sax and tenor sax in the band. What a show, I left, totally inspired and thirsting for more! The group was honoring the music of Coltrane, specifically “India and Africa.” Their was a varied mix of instruments: from soprano, alto, and tenor saxophones, flute, shakuhachi, sarod, tablas, congas, auxiliary percussion instruments, drum set, bass, piano, etc. there are a few that I can’t remember the names of. The blend of Indian, African and Jazz Music mixed so well together and the spirit of Coltrane was definitely their that night. One of my favorite tunes of the night was, “After the Rain,” arranged by Marcia. These musicians paid an exceptional honor to one of the most influential musicians that the world has ever seen. All of the musicians on stage were heavyweights on their specific instruments, and some of the musicians who stuck out for me were: Masaru Koga (soprano, tenor, shakuhachi), Marcia Miget (flute, alto and tenor), Kenneth Nash (percussion) and Steve Oda (sarod). I hope to see them again soon and I’ll definitely take a listen to this period of Coltrane’s genius, which I am not as familiar with.
September 12, 2010, Throckmorton Theater, Mill Valley – Fun gig with the Starduster Orchestra, featuring Noah Griffin and Sheila Glover on vocals. Hopefully we’ll get another chance to play again at this historical and hip theater.
September 10, 2010, Marin Creative Space, Mill Valley – The most out and free performance that I’ve ever been a part of. I feel very appreciative to have had the opportunity to play with the quality of musicians that Daniel Fusco put together. With Matthew Heulitt and Erik Lindquist on guitars, Tal Ariel on piano, Mark Bernfield on drums, Jose Rios on congas, Daniel Fusco on bass and myself on sax, it made for some very interesting and creative music making. Daniel gave us the freedom to play whatever we were feeling with very little guidance. It was a really cool feeling because we had the chance to not worry about volume, style of music, and any other restrictions that venues and their managers give us on gigs. It was a chance to be as free as a bird and to play what we felt at that moment. Michael Lamacchia was the M.C. for the night and always brings a very positive and supportive attitude whenever I see him. I can’t wait to play with him in the near future as well. Hopefully I’m lucky enough to have a chance to play with this group again and I’m very happy to have made some nice new friends that share my love and passion for music.
September 8, 2010, Jam Session – Jam session with pianist Ken Cook, bassist Jason Carr and drummer Niels Myrner at Ken’s house. Ken is the real deal! It was my first time playing with him, and man was I impressed by his playing. I had a lot of fun and was trying to keep up with his fresh ideas. Great time, looking forward to playing again and recording some of these sessions. Great musicianship and music making and I was very pleased to be a part of it. I’m also very excited about playing on Friday with Daniel Fusco’s Ensemble for the Marin Creative Space Gig at the Mill Valley Golf Course. The lineup of musicians he put together are recognizable Bay Area names, and I’m very excited to share ideas and communicate with them musically. Should be an awesome night!
September 3, 2010, Sausalito Art Festival, Sausalito – One of the coldest, windiest gigs I have ever played, but a very pretty setting with lots of support for the arts (visual and performing). Fun night with the Starduster Orchestra and singer Jonathan Poretz, playing lots of cool big band tunes. I was amazed by the attire of some of the people at this event, very artistic! I saw one guy wearing a black suit with a black tie and no shirt underneath his jacket, another woman with a paper made hat with paper colored flowers glued to the hat. Neat stuff! Hopefully we’ll get a chance to play their again next year.
Really looking forward to playing next Friday with the Daniel Fusco Ensemble at the Marin Creative Space Performance at the Mill Valley Golf Course. Very tight group he put together and should be a very open and fun night of music.
September, 2, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Another great night with the Carr brothers. I’m bummed, because Tim is going back down to SoCal, so we won’t be able to play for awhile, but I really enjoyed the two gigs that I got a chance to play with him. I’m in the process of putting together a large binder of all the tunes that I enjoy playing from all eight real books that I have, as well as Aebersold tunes that aren’t in the real books. Last night, we played all Aebersold tunes that we’ve never played before, and really had a fun time. It’s interesting to think that many of the Aebersold tunes written by the Masters, belong in the the real books more than some other tunes do. Anyhow, the music was challenging, engaging and a joy to play.
Two of my students came down to play last night: veteran Miles Johnson (guitar) played, “St. James Infirmary,” and Delaney Benstead played, “Fly me to the moon.” I really appreciated having them play, enjoyed their sound and was thankful to have their families their supporting their kids and our group. It’s very important to me that my students understand that their is other music out there besides what they hear on the radio and see on t.v. that is very high quality and worth their time, appreciation and support. My goal is for my kids to look outside the box of what we as a society are fed on a daily basis, and to see the beauty in the unknown. Jazz requires an open ear and an open mind! Once you get past the complexities and lack of understanding as an audience member, and just sit and appreciate the incredible writing of the masters and the creative playing and improvising of the players, you’ll begin to understand how hip this music and art-form really is. It’s very much one of a kind! I feel very blessed to be able to play this music as well as teach the gospel of Jazz, through all of my heroes.
Looking forward to playing with the Starduster Orchestra tonight at the Sausalito Arts Festival.
August 19, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Like I was saying a couple of weeks ago about my gig with the David Jeffrey Jazz Fourtet, last night was again one of those nights that reminds you how powerful music is and how amazing it is to be a part of. Brothers Jason and Tim Carr have a musical connection that most people wish they could have with one another. Jason’s bass lines fit perfectly with Tim’s very original way of drumming. I was telling Jason last night that his brother’s Tim’s sound is very melodic, original, polyrhythmic and that his sound is something that is really going places. The tightness of his rhythmic lines is so on that you don’t want him to stop while he is soloing over a tune. We all really had a great connection; on piano when I took the tunes out (avant garde sounding), they were right on and followed very well, while laying down perfect lines and feels for it. When we went funkier and more straight ahead, they were really locked in as well. All in all, it was my favorite night at Benissimo’s, and I’m so thankful to play with musicians of both Jason and Tim’s caliber. For being a college student at Cal Arts in SoCal, Tim Carr is really going places, and I hope he comes back home to the Bay Area when he graduates. I’m also hopeful that Jason stays here in the Bay, because it is such a pleasure to play with a bass player who can interchange from straight ahead, to out, to funk, to whatever the tune calls for. Jason does that at an extraordinarily high level. Phenomenal musicians!
Nolan Van Dine (trombone) also played last night on, “Revelation,” and “When the Saints go Marchin In.” He sounded great and is really feeling more comfortable playing in front of audiences. Looking forward to working with both jazz bands this year.
August 13, 2010, Downtown Tiburon Outdoor Music Series – I put a new group together for this gig as my main players all were busy, and I ended up really enjoying playing with some new friends. Ken Husbands on guitar and Eric Marshall on bass; as well as friend Trent Boeschen on drums, did a great job last night, especially considering that I usually call tunes that not many people have played before. Very thankful they were able to play the gig, and did such a great job! School starts for me next Monday, no more long relaxing summer days.
August 12, 2010, Balboa Cafe, Mill Valley – Fun gig with Jason Carr and Alex Aspinall. Looking forward to tomorrow’s gig in Tiburon.
August 7, 2010, Cafe DiVino, Sausalito – Very enjoyable night of music with the David Jeffrey Fourtet. With Casey Cameron on piano (absolutely tearin it up), David Jeffrey on bass (laying down solid lines) and Niels Myrner on drums (with his complex funky rhythms), it was definitely one of my favorite gigs in a long time. It was one of those nights that makes you realize how special music is in your life, and I’m thankful to play with that group, and hopefully we’ll play together again soon. Great venue, Cafe Divino! Looking forward to Balboa on Thursday and Servinos on Friday next week.
August 5, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Great night of music last night at Benissimo’s with Daniel Fusco and Mike Mackenzie. It was my second time playing with Mike, and I thoroughly enjoyed his playing. As usual, Daniel played with lots of emotion and creativity. Two special guest students came up to perform last night; Sean McGee, an incoming 5th grader who plays bass, decided to play, “All Blues,” “Norwegian Wood,” and a funky 12 bar rockin blues (by the way, he chose Ab, fun key!), while bone player Nolan Van Dine, fresh off a stint at Cazadero, played, “My Favorite Things,” and “Mr. PC.” Very enjoyable night, and I look forward to playing there again as well as playing with the David Jeffrey Fourtet this Saturday at a new venue for me, Cafe DiVino in Sausalito.
July 22, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Fun night of music with friends Daniel Fusco and Trent Boeschen. It has been awhile since I played with either of them, let alone all together, which made for a great night of music. We really appreciated the audiences support, which helped us feed off of their energy. Looking forward to playing their again as well as going to Tahoe this Monday for a well deserved vacation.
July 16, 2010, Servino’s, Tiburon – Special guest Garrett Michaelsen was in town for a couple of weeks and I was glad to be able to have him on this gig, as he is one of my favorite musicians to play with. Blake Richardson and Trent Boeschen both did a great job playing as well. It’s always fun to be able to play in a quartet and especially play in a group where I get the opportunity to play my horn and piano on a gig. It’s a very different experience when you are supporting someone on keys in comparison to leading the group on horn. I appreciate both types and enjoy the freedom of comping that the piano gives me. Looking forward to the next gig which will be at Benissimo’s on July 22nd. Hope to see you there.
July 15, 2010, Balboa Cafe, Mill Valley – Great night of music with Jason Carr and Niels Myrner. This was our second time playing here at Balboa, and I definitely enjoyed it more than the first. The audience was engaged and the group was clicking on all songs! I look forward to the next opportunity we have to play there and am thankful to be working for a professional and kind manager like Beth-Anne. Come check us out tomorrow night at Servino’s, Tiburon, from 9-12, with very special guest, trumpeter, Garrett Michaelsen.
July 9, 2010, Creekside Friday’s, Corte Madera – Fun, chilly night with the Starduster Orchestra and singer Jonathan Poretz. Lots of good music making and a neat atmosphere to play in where everyone is listening and enjoying the music, as well as showing their appreciation for what we do (which is very rare these days). I really enjoy playing with these guys, especially hearing some old stories as well as talking shop with the sax players. Looking forward to playing more gigs with them. Hope to see you next Thursday at the Balboa Cafe from 8:30-10:30!
June 25, 2010, Downtown Tiburon Music Series, – Really fun night of music with my musical mentor Marcia Miget on piano and sax, Jason Carr on bass and Alex Aspinall on drums. The tunes we played that night really fit the atmosphere as we funked out all night and at times went far out, which was really neat. For playing for the first time together, and for the complexity of the tunes that I called, the group sounded really tight and had many inspiring moments which made for great musical moments. I really look forward to playing with this group again and am thankful to have a friend and mentor like Marcia in my life to look up to.
June 24, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Fun gig with brothers Jason and Tim Carr on bass and drums. The audience was really digging our sounds and we thoroughly enjoyed playing for them. I haven’t really had a chance to play with Tim too often as he’s attending Cal Arts in LA, but what I really liked about his playing was his polyrhythmic feel and all around creative rhythmic ideas. I think we all enjoyed playing with one another and hope that we can do so again before he goes back to school.
June 19, 2010, Private Party, Novato – I had a really fun time playing for our family friend’s wedding reception. Great food, beautiful setting, great people all made for a very nice day. Look forward to connecting with them when they move back to the Bay Area.
June 17, 2010, Balboa Cafe, Mill Valley – Played Balboa last night for the first time, for a crowd all watching the NBA finals, but I enjoyed playing with Jason and Niels. Really looking forward to next friday with Marcia, Jason and Alex at Servino’s, should be a very fun night!
June 13, 2010, Strawberry Festival, Mill Valley – Fun gig at the Strawberry Festival at the Strawberry Rec Center, outdoors, poolside! Very hot day, but a really fun event we had a chance to play for. Jason Carr on bass and new friend Mike Mackenzie on drums, made for some good sounds. Looking forward to playing at a new venue for us, Balboa Cafe in Mill Valley. Come check us out from 8:30-10:30 next Thursday.
May 29, 2010, Servino’s, Tiburon – One of my favorite nights of music in Tiburon! The crowd was so into the music, most of them stayed for all 3 sets of our 3 hour gig. They clapped after each solo and song and we’re really helping us play our best with their energy and enthusiasm. We really fed off of one another! Max Perkoff was “killin it” all night on bone and piano, such a pleasure to play with a musician of his caliber and Jason Carr and Niels Myrner were very much locked in and playing fabulous all night. Niels had one solo on our third set where I just sat back and felt like I was an audience member attending a jazz show and witnessing something very special. For our first time playing together as a group, we brought the house down, all night! I can’t wait to assemble this group again, and continue the fun and music making we had from last night. Come check us out at our next gig on June 10 at Benissimo’s, in Corte Madera from 7-9.
May 20, 2010, Wildfox, Novato – Another fun night of music with the Ocean Combo, featuring Daniel Radhakrishna on trumpet, Jason Carr on bass, Trent Boeschen on drums and myself on piano. It was really fun backing up a trumpet player, as I’m usually the one leading the group on sax or piano. I liked Daniel’s tone, especially on flugelhorn, and solo ideas. We tried out some new tunes, including, “Waltz for Monk” (a beautiful waltz written by Donald Brown that I played at Sonoma State under the direction of Mel Graves), “Bemsha Swing” (Monk), a tune written by Daniel (I learned about the half diminished 11 chord, which I’d never seen before), and other fun ones that made for an energetic night of music. Really looking forward to the 29th and playing with Max Perkoff, Jason Carr and Niels Myrner at Servinos. Come check us out! It should be a very fun night of music with Max doubling on bone and piano and myself doubling on sax and piano.
May 13, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Great night of music with new bassist Blake Richardson and Alex Aspinall. I really enjoyed Blake’s solo ideas, which were very creative, with many new ideas that I haven’t heard before from a bassist. Great sense of time as well as bass lines. Alex took some very inspired solos and maintained great time and expressive feeling in his playing. One of my students, Miles Johnson played, “Cold Duck Time” and “When The Saints Go Marching In.” I’m so proud to have Miles come up every gig, and you can tell from his playing, he improves every time he comes out. Playing in front of an audience will help boost your confidence as a young musician and can only make you better. Looking forward to playing with Daniel Radhakrishna next Thursday, as well as Jason Carr and Trent Boeschen. Come check us out at the Wildfox in Novato, from 6-9.
May 7, 2010, California College of the Arts, San Francisco, – Fun night of music with the Rob Evans Quartet featuring Rob Evans on sax, myself on piano, Greg McCall on bass and Michael Tornatore on drums. We played some fun tunes and vibed really well together as our playing styles and personalities fit very well together. Looking forward to the next gig I get a chance to play with them. Come check out the Jeff Derby Trio on May 13 at Benissimos with myself on sax, Blake Richardson on bass and Alex Aspinall on drums.
May 1, 2010, Sequoyah Country Club, Oakland, – My favorite gig that I have played with the Starduster. The Rat Pack Summit Show was a blast and I really enjoyed watching Joey, Sammy, Dean and Frank do their thing. Joey was hilarious, Sammy could really belt and Dean and Frank really matched the personalities and voice techniques of the real guys. Watching them up on the stage, made playing behind them, that much more fun! The audience gave us a standing ovation and I could tell that they really enjoyed the show. Definitely looking forward to playing with them again as well as the Starduster.
April 29, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera, – Really fun night of music last night with Jason Carr and Trent Boeschen. I tried calling new tunes from new real book volume 2 and thought we played them pretty well together. My students came up second set to play and we welcomed up; Miles Johnson playing, “Jive Samba,” Jack Ransick playing, “Mr. PC,” Reese Osborn playing, “Cold Duck Time,” and Jane Bhan playing, “My Romance,” and “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore.” All my student played very well and I was especially impressed with Jane’s clarinet playing. I had more than one person come up to me and say that, listening to her sound, you couldn’t tell she was a middle school student. Jane is an excellent classical player, and learning to really burn on jazz as well. Very thoughtful solos and great use of the melody in her improv.
April 16, 2010, Enrico’s, San Francisco, – Long night of music in the city for a good crowd of listeners. Niels and Jason played very well and were locked, but I felt that I had a bit of an off night. I really enjoyed being able to play piano on a gig, because I’m so used to playing keyboard. The venue is a fun one to play, and hopefully we will be back their playing again.
April 15, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – After a long exhausting 7 hour drive from L.A. (Disneyland) back home to the Bay Area, it was time for yet another gig at Benissimo’s. I was really looking forward to this night as I was going to be playing with new bassist Piro Patton, and friend Alex Aspinall. We all had a great night of music and I really dug Piro’s solo ideas, locked in bass lines and Alex’s consistent time and sensitivity. Alex took some really happening solos that were filled with creativity and syncopated challenging rhythms. Overall, besides being very tired from the driving, I really enjoyed playing with the two of them and look forward to playing with them both very soon. Come check Jason Carr, Niels Myrner and myself out tomorrow night at Enrico’s in the city starting at 8:00!
April 8, 2010, Wildfox Restaurant, Novato – Nice night with friends and fellow San Rafael High graduates, Julian Garfolo on bass and Trent Boeschen on drums. I actually really enjoyed the ambience of this venue, outside in the patio with two fireplaces and heaters to keep everyone nice and warm on a cold night. Quite a challenge to play in tune with the cold weather, as well as breaking in new reeds on both horns, but we all managed and had some nice moments that night. Hopefully, we’ll be back there again to play some music and entertain the crowd!
April 3, 2010, Servino Ristorante, Tiburon – Fun night of music with friends Niels Myrner and Daniel Fusco. I thought the 3rd set we really got settled and locked in, which made for a great last set of the night. Looking forward to playing with new bassist Piro Patton and friend Alex Aspinall in a few weeks at Benissimo’s. Come check us out!
April 1, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Yet another fun night of playing jazz! It was a pleasure to play with Michael Arrow (teacher at neil cummins) who I haven’t played with since my days of playing steady at the Broken Drum in San Rafael. I enjoyed hearing him play after such a long absence of playing together. Jason Carr was also on this gig and as usual, sounds excellent. The audience was probably the biggest I have seen at Benissimo’s, and myself and the guys definitely appreciated the support and recognition that was given to us all night. I was also very pleased to invite up my kids to play the second set. Miles Johnson (“Midnight Waltz”), Jane Bhan (“Cold Duck Time”), Reese Osborne (“Straight Life”) and Jack Ransick (“Revelation”) all came up to play and showed quite a bit of poise for students of their age. I continue to be impressed and proud of their courage for getting up in front of an audience and doing their best. Looking forward to playing at Servino’s on Saturday with a nice group including Daniel Fusco and Niels Myrner. Should be an exciting night filled with energetic music!
March 24, 2010, Embassy Suites, San Rafael – Interesting gig tonight! One hundred 6th graders learning to eat in a formal setting and to dance all kinds of different styles while listening to a big band play jazz. Definitely enjoyed the night and was surprised and excited to see about fifteen of my own students their at the Cotillion. I was very proud of their effort and enjoyed playing for them. As usual, I had a great time playing with the Starduster Orchestra and thoroughly enjoyed playing with a new player named Joe Cohen (great horn player). Looking forward to the next time they call me for a gig!
March 18, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Probably my favorite night playing at Benissimo’s. I really enjoyed the sounds of Daniel Fusco on bass and Trent Boeschen on drums. It felt like we had a good connection all night. I tried to call tunes that either I’d only played a few times, or tunes that I’ve never played. We mixed it up with some of those, along with some more recognizable ones, which made for a fun night of playing. One of my students, Miles Johnson (guitar) came up and played “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy,” with the group. He played really excellent and it was definitely the best that I have ever heard him play. The guys in the group were very impressed that an 11 year old sixth grader could play that way. Way to go Miles! I was also honored to have my musical mentor and great friend Marcia Miget, and Carl Lewis in the audience listening and supporting us. I was hoping she brought her axe to blow, but she was there specifically to enjoy the food and listen to the group. Hopefully next time she comes, she’ll play on a few tunes; she is a truly amazing musician and wonderful friend! Looking forward to my next gig with the Starduster Orchestra at Embassy Suites in San Rafael!
March 6, 2010, Servino Ristorante, Tiburon – Last night was a blast! I really appreciate being able to play free at a venue where volume is not an issue and we have the freedom to play whatever we want. We called a mixture of standards and more contemporary tunes which we’re all fun to play. It was cool to go out on tunes that you typically aren’t able to, due to the size of the venue. I really enjoy playing with both Daniel Fusco and Alex Aspinall; two players who I consider great friends and colleagues. They both play with a lot of sensitivity, using their ears at all times, tons of soul, and possess a positive attitude that always rubs off on myself and the audience during gigs. Both guys are classy dudes who I’m happy to play any gig with. Daniel was trying out his brand new bass for the first time, and from what I heard, he made a great choice. It’s not always easy to find musicians that you vibe with musically and socially, but I can say that Alex and Daniel are two guys that I really enjoy being around. Hope to see you out at the next gig at Benissimo’s on the 18th!
March 4, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – We got a bit of a late start with the gig (a couple was still eating in our performance area when we arrived), but got right into playing and vibing with one another. It looks like I will be switching off playing piano and sax for each gig which will help to keep building my keyboard chops quite a bit. Jason Carr and Trent Boeschen were calling some fun tunes and I tried to keep them on their toes with calling random tunes that most people never play from, in the book we were using. Three of my students came up to play; Nolan Van Dine played, “Peter Gunn Theme”, Reese Osborne played, “Doxy” and Evan Miyawaki played, “Dizzy Atmosphere” and “Lucky Southern”. I’m always impressed and proud of my students for having the bravery to play in front of strangers on a gig. This experience will definitely help them in the future when they will have to play in front of larger audiences. I tell all my kids, anytime you have the chance to play with professional musicians and receive positive exposure, you need to take advantage of that, because most kids your age don’t have that opportunity, and it takes them longer to feel comfortable playing in front of audiences, teachers and their peers. Saturday night I will be playing with Daniel Fusco and Alex Aspinall over at Servino’s in Tiburon, and I’m really looking forward to playing them! Should be a really fun night of high level musicianship and energy. Come check us out from 7:30-10:30.
February 18, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Fun night of playing with Daniel Fusco and Trent Boeschen. I really enjoyed playing with Daniel again after the first time we played together at Servino’s a couple months ago. Love his playing, energy and attitude. Despite having the worst reed issues I’ve ever had on a gig, there were some happening moments that were the highlight of the night. I really appreciated both guys understanding of my equipment issues and their ability to hold it down, while I struggled through the night. Looking forward to going to Tahoe this weekend. Come check us out at our next gig at Benissimo’s, Corte Madera on March 4th and Servino’s, Tiburon on March 6th.
February 13, 2010, Marines Memorial Theater, San Francisco – Beautiful building that honors the soldiers and families of soldiers who have fought in battle and lost their lives defending our country. I enjoyed playing with the Starduster Orchestra and appreciated seeing everyone up dancing and having a nice time, listening to Big Band Swing.
February 5, 2010, Enrico’s, San Francisco – Our second night of playing at Enrico’s for a very nice crowd all night. I chose very challenging pieces on this night, and I really appreciate the high musicianship of Jason Carr and Niels Myrner. I think we all had an enjoyable time, and by the response of the crowd, I’m hopeful that they enjoyed what they heard. Look forward to playing their again!
February 4, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Another nice night at Benissimo’s featuring an all San Rafael High Band, myself on sax, Julian Garfolo on bass and Trent Boeschen on drums. Nice night of playing, during the second set it was my pleasure to invite Miles Johnson, Jack Ransick, Reese Osborne, Nolan Van Dine and John Cullen up to play. The four of them all participate in the Intermediate Jazz Band at Hall, and showed lots of courage coming up playing in front of a large crowd. I’m very proud of them!
January 21, 2010, Benissimo’s, Corte Madera – Fun night with Trent Boeschen on drums and new bassist Bob Steele. At a venue that calls for playing very quietly, I think we played some good tunes and had some good moments that night. Two of my students; Evan Miyawaki (sax) and Nolan Van Dine (bone), sat in on the gig and did an excellent job playing the tunes they chose. It looks like this is going to end up being a once or twice a month gig, so anyone who would like to come out to play, listen, enjoy a meal, etc. are all welcome! Hope to see you at one or both of the next upcoming gigs, February 4th at Benissimo’s, Corte Madera and February 5th at Enrico’s, San Francisco.
January 16, 2010, Enrico’s, San Francisco – One of the best audiences we have ever played for! One of my favorite venues I have played! The vibe was really happening, really felt like a jazz club. The energy was so high on this gig, it was refreshing to play on such a fun night of music, as well as play for such a great audience. It rained all night, but inside Enrico’s the place was on fire. As my first gig playing here at Enrico’s, I tried to come up with a fun exciting set list that would really keep the energy high and audience happy. I think we definitely accomplished that last night! Jason Carr and Niels Myrner were playing their tails off and we fed off of one another to the tune of high level playing all night. I’m hopeful that we can play at Enrico’s again, because we all had a very fun time. Next gig up is February 13th from 8-10 at the Marines Memorial Theater in San Francisco with the Starduster Orchestra. Hope you can make it out!
January 9, 2010, Servino Ristorante, Tiburon – Another good night of music with two good friends and musicians, Giovanni Benedetti and Trent Boeschen. I especially dug Gio’s solos in which he bowed as well as Trent’s ever sensitive ear and reaction to what he hears. The trio sound without chords definitely lends space to going out on tunes that you might not otherwise. We had some nice moments in the gig where the energy was very high and communication was happening. Very excited about the gig next week at Enrico’s in San Francisco. This will be our first time playing their and we’re hopeful to make a good impression in order to play their regularly. Come check us out!
December 19, 2009, Servino Ristorante, Tiburon – Really fun night of music with a great group, consisting of Garrett Michaelsen on trumpet and piano, Daniel Fusco on bass, Niels Myrner on drums as well as myself playing sax and piano. The energy and spirit was really high and the group fed off each other as well as the support of the audience. Very thankful to have family and friends at the gig supporting our music and really listening and appreciating what they’re hearing. It’s not always the case that the audience listens to the music, claps at the end of solos and songs, as well as really be in tune with what they’re hearing; it was a very pleasant surprise! I’m always thrilled to get a chance to play with Garrett (who currently resides in Indiana working towards a masters and doctorate), who is a very gifted and humble musician who I admire listening to and performing with. This gig was my first playing with Daniel, and I must say I really enjoyed his playing as well as his positive spirit and will definitely be playing with him again soon. As usual, Niels provided great time on the set, as well as very sensitive and soulful playing, which I really appreciate about him. Overall, the night was a great success and I continue to love being part of the jazz community and doing my best to contribute to an art form I have so much love and respect for. Come check out the Jeff Derby Trio (myself on sax, Geo Benedetti on bass and Niels Myrner on drums) on January 9th, 2010 at Servino’s, Tiburon, starting at 7:30!