October 11th, 2013

I'm sitting here listening to my newly acquired collection of Smalls Live recordings from Smalls Jazz Club in NYC, NY. A few months ago they had a fundraiser to upgrade their live video feed, get a new piano, and create their musicians' revenue project - to fund the incredible players that make music and get recorded at Smalls. As part of my pledge package, I got a flash drive full of their entire Smalls Live catalog to date. I'm currently checking out the Lage Lund Four recording by the incredible Norwegian guitarist Lage Lund.

In addition to checking out new tunes, a lot has gone on throughout these past few months - so I'll give you a brief overview. I have been having some issues with tendonitis, so I have not been playing as much. I just recently got back to really practicing again this week. It's been great to be on the up and up with it, but dealing with the physicality of being a musician is certainly one of the hardest parts. Since my recital is on November 10th, the timing is not ideal, but I will take the current relief as a good sign.

I've got the set list picked out for my recital and have had a rehearsal already. I'm desperately trying to go against the grain of what is standard around here at UCO. Generally you are required to have another chordal instrument on your recital, but I have rehearsed with the trio and enjoy the sound. I'll find out on October 23rd, if my committee would rather have me add a keyboardist or not. I like the trio element since we can really work hard together to get a good balance and really deliver the tunes our way - plus being able to stretch out improvisationally. Two great local players, Stephen Schultz on bass (but he is also a guitarist/saxophonist/awesomeist) and Drew Wilson on the drums, will be accompanying me on my recital. I'm so thankful for being able to play with such a great group. 

I am working toward updating this regularly, but I am becoming increasingly busy as the weeks go on. The next few weeks will truly be a test!

Be well!