Art Blakey was right – “no america no Jazz” as the leader of the Jazz Messengers used to say. Jazz is at the heart of the history of american culture and its message of freedom and personal empowerment has had a huge effect on the rest of the world. The musical universe has come a long way since the 18th century’s focus on classical forms and artists that were regarded as replaceable servants subject to the whims of emperors, conductors and impressarios.
I was extremely fortunate to grow up in New York City, the center of the Jazz world. At a very young age I found myself being asked on gigs with high profile veteran musicians who accepted my playing without reservation. These wonderful gentleman enabled a precocious 20 year old to gain confidence in a wider musical universe.
Now based in hamburg germany I try to spread the joy of this great music and explain to folks on this side of the pond whats behind this passion and why I play it.