JAB
Composer * Educator Empowering Lives through Music * Trumpeter
Home
"This music took me to a place inside myself I never knew existed. A calm, quiet, peaceful place."
~ Gayle Brandeis, Author of The Book of Dead Birds
"JAB has the ability to motivate and encourage any kid from the city or farm to learn and enjoy music.
He can get each child to focus, relax and work together in harmony. And he loves the children! "
~ Juha Kylmä, Director, Jukola Children's Shelter
Niemela, Finland
"Thank you for this gift of time."
Participant in Empowerment Workshop, Kansas City Art Institute
Ongoing blog, whimsy, whatnots...
SPRING 2016 & Continuing - LEXINGTON, KY et Alibi
Illness has been my ever present companion since 17 March. What began as strep (common in those first going into public schools) morphed into something more. The doctors are stumped. I've had multiple blood panels, x-rays, CT-Scan, swabs, a visit to ENT specialist, and about a dozen trips to the hospital. Four rounds of antibiotics, 5 antifungal rounds, and a round of corticosteroid hormone and I still have symptons. However my patches of "good days" are growing and usually my "not so good days" are waning. My next stop is an appointment with the Infectious Disease Specialst in early September. Through all of this, I've received kind and attentive care from the top notch staff at UK HealtCare.
MARCH - MAY 2016 - LEXINGTON, KY
Wow. My internship has been an incredible learning experience. I have learned mountains about working with children who have special needs through the wisdom and expansive knowledge of Dale Lewis. My workload is 48 children in 52 individual sessions per week spread across 12 schools. Plan, execute, observe, note, and chart each session every day. It is a hectic schedule, but the work is heartwarming and fulfilling. I have learned to observe minute gestures, inflections, eye contact, body postures and movement that make each child a unique and precious soul. The children I work with have many issues and some are difficult to work with. But through patience and gentle teachings, delivered with expertise, confidence, and a genial tone I have seen firsthand the powerful impact of Music Therapy.
INTERNSHIP SAGA, part 3
FEBRUARY 2016, LEXINGTON, KY
After much delay, I am beginning my internship. I will be working with Dale Lewis (MT-BC) in the Fayette County Public School system with children who have special needs.
INTERNSHIP SAGA, part 2
The University of Kentukcy in its continuing ineptness has failed to green light my internship. I worked hard to secure the internship and was let down again. Now I must find another option.
INTERSHIP Saga, part 1
There have been some delays with my internship due to new state laws in Colorado. Not sure what will be happening now. :(
INTERNSHIP!
I have been offered and execepted an internship at Fort Logan Mental Health Institute in Denver. This is a state-run facility and I'll be working with clients with psychological and behavioral issues. My start date is 6 July.
SPRING - LEXINGTON, KY
I have finished my music therapy coursework and am waiting to land an internship so I can be able to sit for my MT-BC certification.
27 JANUARY - LOS ANGELES, CA
Performing at the Blue Whale with some smokin' hot cats. Covering Miles' electric music.
FALL - LEXINGTON, KY
Final semester in my coursework for music therapy certification - full of labs, practicum at local public schools, observations in multiple settings, community music leading events, scholarly reviews of research papers, and mountains of reading on numerous approaches to psychological therapies. Super fun and very brain stretching!
SUMMER - INDIANA, MICHIGAN, OHIO
After a grueling Spring semester, I got to take some time off. Worked on new compositions, swam daily, and was so grateful for a 3+ week camping trip into the upper reaches of Michigan. Here are some photos.
31 MAY - GOSHEN, IN
After not playing in the Michiana area for nearly three years, I will be at Gateway Cellar Winery & Back Alley Brewery on 31 May from 7PM on... Come on out and enjoy some delicious wine or craft beer by my buddy Larry!
15 MAY - COLUMBUS, OH
A wonderful visit with my old college chum Paul Weiss and his family. Had a great time at The Rossi Bar + Kitchen, where I also enjoyed an enchanting conversation!
12 MAY - LEXINGTON, KY
Peonies
A month ago it was the daffodils
which broke my heart wide open.
Tonight peonies haunt the May evening air.
Their pools of exuberance, their spell-binding scent,
Their short lived lives, like the daffodils…
I pause to smell their dew-dripping petals and am flung,
immediately and willingly into a vast countryside of desire.
I am freely carried away on blooms of ravishing resplendence.
It is not enough.
I rub the petals unto my wrists and neck and blanket
my pillow with them so they will pervade my dreams.
2 APRIL - LEXINGTON, KY
Been plugging away at my studies. The course on Psychology of Death and Dying is intense and packed with elucidating insights! Behavior Modification (textbook by the Madsen brothers) has some excellent advice and practical tips on working with a wide variety of behaviors. Juvenile Delinquency: Prevention, Assessment, and Intervention rounds out this semester with a deluge of information on the problems plaguing our juvenile courts and many positive solutions that are in play across the US.
15 MARCH - SOUTH BEND, IN
Been thoroughly enjoying many of the Met Opera's HD Simulcasts this year! Massenet's Werther was today. Two weeks ago I went to see Borodin's Prince Igor with a friend who lived in St. Petersburg. Before that it was Dvorak's Rusalka with the ever-stunning Renee Fleming, fresh off her beautiful Super Bowl performance of our national anthem.
13 JANUARY 2014 - LEXINGTON, KY
Starting my penultimate semester of music therapy coursework at University of Kentucky.
18 DECEMBER - 2 JANUARY - SAN FRANCISCO
Such lovely holidays in my old home town! Saw so many dear old friends, ate some great food, had some superb Christmas ales, went to some fun parties, revisited the California Academy of Sciences, and was blown away by the David Hockney exhibit at the DeYoung!
9 OCTOBER - COEUR D'ALENE, ID
After a slew of materials were due today for my Music Therapy work, I headed to the theatre for the debut NY Met Opera Live in HD production of the year, Eugene Onegin! What a sublime treat! Yes, Pyotr T!
6-9 JUNE - OJAI, CA
Another great year at the Ojai Music Festival. Highlights included seeing some great pieces by the Mark Morris Dance Group, hearing pieces I'd never heard live before by Cage, Cowell, Ives, Lou Harrison, and Bartok. Outstanding performances by Colin Fowler and the American String Quartet.
MAY & JUNE - HUMBOLDT COUNTY, CA
Have been thoroughly enjoying the ancient redwoods and the stunning oceans views. Sequoia Park, Headwaters Forest Reserve, and the Hammond Trail are a few favorites.
10 MAY - EUREKA, CA
Finished another semester of studies for Music Therapy license. Happy to report a 4.0 GPA after one year's studies. Now onto some composing time.
24 MARCH - LOS ANGELES, CA
Ventured back into the city to hear LA Opera's production of The Flying Dutchman. A fun, Edward Gorey type setting of Wagner's breakthrough work! Afterwards off to a charming Italian eatery to converse and kvetch with friend and collaborator, Rudy Perez.
21 MARCH - LOS ANGELES, CA
A lively exchange of ideas with Development Director of Free Arts for Abused Children. They do amazing work to help improve the lives of homeless children throughout LA County. Afterwards a lovely evening of catching-up with dear friend Greg Walloch.
19 & 20 MARCH - REDLANDS, CA
An all-too-brief stop in the town of my most endearing alma mater, University of Redlands. If you ever find yourself here, check out Hangar 24 Brewery for the excellent brews and the hip and scenic location - next to the small airport with majestic views of the San Gorgonio mountains! Thanks to Dave and Ana for the hosting! And to Adela and Axel for their joy and precious hugs!
17 MARCH - ALBUQUERQUE, NM
Happy St. Patrick's Day to all! Attended a contemplative performance of BACH's St. John's Passion by the New Mexico Philharmonic. The setting in Cathedral of St. John with its built in reverberation made the heartfelt performance even more memorable.
15 MARCH - ALBUQUERQUE, NM
Led an Empowering Lives through Music workshop at Joy Junction homeless shelter. Tried out some of the new techniques I've been learning in my music therapy studies. An uplifting experience for all! Thanks to Irene for the hosting!
8 MARCH - LEXINGTON, KY
Participated in a music therapy session at Richmond Place in the morning. Then off to University of Louisville for a lecture by Dr. Cliff Madsen. A brilliant music therapist and educator, Dr. Madsen has been involved with music therapy since its inception as a distinct discipline. His lecture was stunning, inspiring and elucidating. After speaking for three hours, he ended his talk by saying, "That's enough. Bye!" Thanks to Abby and Austin for the hosting!
9 JANUARY - LEXINGTON, KY
Starting second semester of music therapy degree and license. Doing all online classes and knocking off a bunch of my psychology requisites. I'll be doing a lot of traveling starting in March. Glad to be hitting the road again! Somehow, I love the gypsy lifestyle... guess I'm just used to it.
16 DECEMBER - LEXINGTON, KY
First semester down. 4.0s across the board. Learned so many great things. Thanks to my wonderful professors and supervisers! The coursework and practicums were practical, informative and engaging.
14 SEPTEMBER - LEXINGTON, KY
Started practicum at Good Samaritan Hospital. Working in Behavioral Health Unit.
11 SEPTEMBER - LEXINGTON, KY
Started practicum at Child Development Center of the Bluegrass. Working with two-year olds in inclusive classroom setting.
4 SEPTEMBER - LEXINGTON, KY
Attended a zany concert of various works by John Cage. A superb 100th year birthday celebration for an amazing original!
22 AUGUST - LEXINGTON, KY
Started courses in Music Therapy program at University of Kentucky.
6 JULY - VENTURA, CA
An excerpt of my composition Apparition of Eternal Luminescence was used to support a poetry reading by Richard Newsham on the 5x5 performance art showcase at the Sylvia White Gallery.
13 JUNE
Accepted to University of Kentrucky's Graduate School for Music Therapy degree.
MARCH-AUGUST - GREATER CHICAGO
Plugging away on new compositions and preparing to head to University of Kentucky for Music Therapy degree. Doing this to bring more legitimacy to my work with abused, abandoned & neglected children. This was partially inspired by the brilliant Oliver Sacks book, Musicophilia.
14 MARCH - GREATER CHICAGO
After whizzing past Northern Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri & Illinois, I arrived back in NorthWest Indiana, coming full-circle from whence I departed nearly five months ago. Actually it was more like a squiggly arc. Quite strange to be back after doing so much traveling, but much focused work awaits which requires a bit more stationary life for a spell. I am so grateful for all the friends - old and new - whom I've met on my journeys this past year! Thank you all for being so encouraging and supportive of my work. Many many solid connections have been made to carry forward projects with Empowering Lives through Music, The Wolfrog Project, new compositions and future appearances.
10-12 MARCH - DALLAS, TX
A brief stop in Dallas before heading back to the Heartland. Enjoyed a wonderful meal in gorgeous environs at a serene temple. Thank you Dee and Paulette for your hospitality and generosity.
9 MARCH - SAN ANTONIO, TX
A lengthy stay in this beautiful, lively and engaging city. New connections were made and those established in November 2011 were strengthened. Enjoyed a delightful evening at the McNay Art Museum. Quite moved by Attic Rep Theatre's presentation of The Cancer Project. Enjoyed attending some of the goings on of Contemporary Art Month. A humongous thank you to Susan for your graciousness and hospitatlity.
15 FEBRUARY - SAN ANTONIO, TX
* Mozart actually arranged variations on this French folk song.
14 FEBRUARY - SAN ANTONIO, TX
Happy Valentine's Day to All!
Arrived safely last evening after driving 1,400 miles in two days. Whoosh!
I hope everyone will enjoy a moment of respite and consider what Love means to each on a personal level.
8 -10 FEBRUARY - REDLANDS, CA
Finished and mailed final draft of Stravinsky paper for Paul Sacher Foundation fellowship in Basel, Switzerland. A pdf file of the essay may be viewed here.
Enjoyed a delightful & beautiful evening at home of dear friend Gayle Brandeis. Thanks to Gayle, Michael & family for having us over. Several lovely days with cherished friends Dave & Ana and their beautiful children. Gracias por todos!
Lovely to see my old alma mater again. Graceful, lovely, enchanting memories abound in this magical place where I had my ears & mind blown wide open by mentor and divine guru-like mentor, Barney Childs.
28 JANUARY - 7 FEBRUARY - VENTURA
Saw the brilliant Wim Wenders documentary Pina. The works showcased, especially Le Sacre du Printemps, were stunning in their latest advancement of 3D technology.
Finished second draft of Stravinsky paper for the Paul Sacher Foundation.
Worked on Wolfrog libretto with writer Richard Newsham.
Worked on complete revamping of Empowering Lives through Music page. New subpages coming soon!
Busked at several locations including launching two tall ships to sea from the Ventura Harbor.
Thanks you Richard for your enduring, enriching friendship.
23 - 27 JANUARY - SAN FRANCISCO
Back to work on Stravinsky paper for Paul Sacher Foundation. Deadline 15 Feb.
Tuesday - Led Empowering workshop at Slippery Fish preschool
Wed - Recording session with Ted Savarese
Thursday - Encouraging meeting with Rose Kelly at Bay Area Discovery Museum re: Wolfrog. Led Empowering workshop at Compass Shelter in SF's Tenderloin District via Children of Shelters
Friday - Encouraging meeting with Steve Mason at Pickleweed Parks Community Center re: Wolfrog.
20 - 22 JANUARY - SAN FRANCISCO
Greatly enjoyed joyous birthday celebrations with friends. Enthralled by NY Met's production of The Enchanted Island.
Reflection and composing on my birthday, including completion of new composition Invocation.
16 JANUARY - MLK DAY
"He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love. It is impossible even to begin the act of loving one's enemies without the prior acceptance of the necessity, over and over again, of forgiving those who inflict evil and injury upon us.
Forgiveness does not mean ignoring what has been done or putting a false label on an evil act. It means, rather, that the evil act no longer remains as a barrier to the relationship."
~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
15 JANUARY
"I have lived nearly 50 years, and I have seen life as it is. Pain, misery, hunger...cruelty beyond belief.
I have heard the singing from taverns and the moans from bundles of filth on the streets. I have been a soldier and seen my comrades fall in battle...or die more slowly under the lash in Africa. I have held them in my arms at the final moment. These were men who saw life as it is, yet they died despairing. No glory, no gallant last words...only their eyes filled with confusion, whimpering the question:"Why?"
I do not think they asked why they were dying, but why they had lived. When life itself seems lunatic, who knows where madness lies?
Perhaps to be too practical is madness. To surrender dreams--this may be madness. To seek treasure where there is only trash. Too much sanity may be madness. And maddest of all, to see life as it is and not as it should be."
~ Dale Wasserman, Man of La Mancha
12 - 15 JANUARY - SEATTLE
Played cool gig at Sea Monster Lounge with PK, Beth Fleenor, Kate Olsen and Greg Campbell. Fun times. Great club. Recording here.
Encouraging discussion re: Wolfrog with Soundbridge - the superb community outreach arm of the Seattle Symphony.
Stayed with great new friend Dave in Renton - a town 12 miles South of Seattle, which echoed for me the vibe of Twin Peaks. Cool stuff! Met many lovely people - Michael, Brandy, Rachel, Heng, Mark, Andrea, Lydia & Paula - who made my year with her radiant smile and angelic blessings! Thanks to Dave for the hosting and abundant joy! Sorry about the burnt toast, dude!
2 - 11 JANUARY - SPOKANE
Having a blast researching the paper I'm writing for fellowship at Paul Sacher Foundation in Basel, Switzerland:
Four Scores and 99 Years Ago ~~~
Examining a near-century arc of critical editions, performances and recordings of Le Sacre du Printemps that have made The Rite of Spring an ever original ritual of renewal
Finished new composition "Flicker" for seven instruments: Hi/Lo Strings, Hi/Lo Woodwinds, Hi/Lo Brass & Percussion.
Have nearly completed expanding/reworking of Invocation - for Soprano, String Orchestra, Piano & Harp.
1 JANUARY - SPOKANE
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL!
2012 holds much promise and I wish the best for Us All!
Arrived at my brother's home here several nights ago. Been busking on the streets for gas and food money. NYE rolled in with dear friends at farmhouse with glass-enclosed chiminea, live music and silly gestures at speaking foreign languages. Quite fun! Thanks to Lisa & Ron for inviting us!
25, 28, 29 DECEMBER - SEATTLE
Busked at Pike's Place and did quite well. Played with long-time friend Amy Denio at Shipwreck Tavern in West Seattle.
Great improv session at Amy's home with Naomi, Dave & Dan. Thanks, Amy! You forever Rock!
22 - 25 DECEMBER - SAN JUAN ISLANDS
My first time out to Friday Harbor to visit dear friend Alex Shapiro at her new home at water's on Eagle Point. Alex is a brilliant composer, brimming with life and joy in abundance. Performed with the local big band at the Rumor Mill on 23rd. Played twice on 24th - once to play taps for the crabs we would eat for dinner (Thanks to Dan for the Frutti del Mar!) and some holiday tunes at house party. A tumultuous tempest-tost ride "back to America" on Christmas day was capped by the ferry catching air & crashing down hard on the waves - landing ceiling tile pieces in my lap! Thank you Alex and Dan for the lovely and lively time! xoXox.
21 DECEMBER - ALBANY, OR
Thanks to Jane & Doug Ropp for the wonderful hosting and delicious cornbread!
20 DECEMBER - WEED, CA
Got to visit dear long-time friends Sean & Jen at their lovely home & meet their delightful children. Thanks for the hosting! Love you All!
19 - UKIAH, CA
Thanks for the delightful meals and hosting, Karen & Terry!
18 DECEMBER - GRATON, CA
Delightful evening with wonderful, kind new friend and patron. Thanks for the lovely curries et al, Roland!
12 - 17 DECEMBER - BAY AREA
Monday, 12 - Relaxing day and meetings in Inverness. Thai dinner and The Descendants with delightful friend Carol in Fairfax
Tuesday, 13 - Cooked lovely organic pizzas with wild mushrooms, chard, and fresh goat cheese at dearest friend Herb's new home in Berkeley. Lovely to see you, Mr. Heinz!
Wednesday, 14 - San Francisco. Superb conversation and budget planning with Children of Shelters director. Thank you Mandy for being so supportive, enthralled and enthusiastic concerning my work and the message of Wolfrog! Busked on Chestnut Street wearing Ho Ho Ho hat playing Christmas carols, BACH, Mozart, Handel, jazz, children's tunes, improv on "Flight of the Bumble Bee" et al. Hung with generous loving patron at her home in Noe Valley. Merci pour Tous, Nancy!
Thursday, 15 - Millbrae, San Francisco. Recorded Christmas carols and tracked "Racoon's Theme" from Wolfrog with wondeful producer and friend, Ted Savarese. Busked on 24th Street. Dinner with patrons Phil & Peter. Thanks Gents! Always a pleasure. Thank you for the New Year's ornament!
Friday, 16 - Happy Birthday, Ludwig Van! Elucidating and informative disussion with director of Marin Community Foundation re: Wolfrog. Thanks for the surfeit of info, Sharin! Busked. Captivated with The Animation Project created and performed by choreographer/dancer, past collaborator friend, Megan Nicely in enchanting Pas de Deux with Kate Elswit at The Garage. Very inspiring, fun, emotionally powerful work. Brava Ladies!
Saturday, 17 - Busked on 24th Street. Attended lovely, lively, stimulating party at dear friends Laura & Hakan's home. Thanks as always for your generosity and warmth!
9 DECEMBER - SAN FRANCISCO
Remarkable connection with the life-affirming Children of Shelters Foundation. CoS was beneficiary of KFOG's Concert for Kids tonight - featuring Death Cab for Cutie & Airborne Toxic Event. Thanks to Mandy for the tickets and enthusiasm. Blessings to the staff of Children of Shelters for their continuing work with these beautiful young souls who Deserve a Chance to Shine!
6 DECEMBER - FAIRFAX
HUGO! Brilliant Mr. Scorsese!
5 DECEMBER - FROM FAIRFAX via LA
Very encouraging news from Free Arts for Abused Children in LA County re: Wolfrog. Thanks for an engaging conversation Audrey!
4 DECEMBER - BERKELEY, CA
Honored to be a part of "The Week Starts Here" show on KPFA hosted by Veronica Faison with Dr. Rick Hanson, author of Buddha's Brain, as guest.
Click here for audio.
3 DECEMBER - FAIRFAX, CA
Finally got black dots down on "Reality Theme" today via this lovely Steinway. Thanks Sarah!
2 DECEMBER - SAN FRANCISCO
Arrived in SF 21:00. As I entered the City by the Bay, a shooting star greeted me. A wonderful journey continues. Spent Thursday evening perched high on hill West of Sutro Tower with stunning views of GG Bridge, De Young Museum, Angel Island. Vast. Thanks to Laura & Hakan for the hosting!
22-30 NOVEMBER - LA/VENTURA COUNTY
Tuesday, 22 - Played two songs on off the hook show with Scrote & friends at Sancho Gallery. Video here.
Thanksgiving - cooked and enjoyed lovely feast with Rudy Perez, Irene Fertik & poets Ahna & Richard. Thanks gals! It was a wonderful day and was also Rudy's 82nd birthday! Played a five minute "Happy Birthday Variation" going from HB Theme played in 20s Charleston-style, to Latin influence, to BACH, to Mozart and cycling through seven key changes back to original with six note tag of HB Theme.
Friday - Finally got to see The Way. Moving, powerful well-acted film. Kudos, Mr. Estevez, Martin Sheen & outstanding ensemble. Reminding me often of One who walked the Camino de Santiago following our dazzling, all-too-brief encounter in Krems, Austria this August.
Saturday - Ventura Farmer's Market
Sunday - Mermaid Statue
Muppet Movie, "home" to experience Catan's Il Postino
Monday - Thralled by an amazing show at Groundlings. "The Black Version" did a multi-layered take on Sixteen Candles! Great direction by Karen Maruyama. Briefly met all performers after. Very cool. "Light It Up" you did! Thank you!
Wednesday - Encouraging meeting with Education Director & Family Programs Director at Skirball re: Wolfrog. Thanks Michael and Kingsley!
20 NOVEMBER - LOS ANGELES
An amazing and captivating concert at Jacaranda: Music at the Edge tonight! An all Henryk Gorecki concert in memorium of Gorecki's passing one year ago. Remarkable gems from arguably the foremost Polish composer of the 20th century. Kudos to Patrick Scott, Mark Robson, the Calder & Lyris string quartets and the Jacaranda Chamber Orchestra, ably led by Mark Alan Hilt.
19 NOVEMBER - LOS ANGELES
Thoroughly enjoyed a delightful dinner with author Blair Tindall. LOVED seeing long-time friend Ron English's opening at Corey Helford Gallery - with random string quartet dressed in camouflage and painted faces performing High Classics followed by the likes of Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir." All capped off by a warm glow after-party where I met so many engaging and wonderful people - Alexandra, Anthony, Justin, Derrick, Sean, et al.
Thanks to Ron & Tarsa for the hosting & yummy breakfast! LOVE you guys! XO!
18 NOVEMBER - REDLANDS, CA
Lovely hang at my grad school alma mater, University of Redlands. Met with Education Director, several other profs, some other great connex re: Wolfrog.
Thanks to Dave & Ana and AI & Darcie for the hosting!
This is the Narthex of the chapel at University of Redlands. My composition "Music for the Sonorous Walls..." was written for these walls and performed ON them!
16 NOVEMEMBER - YUMA, AZ
Guest lecture/discussions At Arizona Western College.
Thanks to Carl Posch for the hosting! Carl was a great friend in grad school days and has served as a compassionate & inspiring teacher at AWC for nearly 20 years in addition to being a great boon to the local community. Bravo, Mr. Posch!
at Salton Sea. very interesting place. if interested ck out Gayle Brandeis' Book of Dead Birds and watch the doc.
14 - 15 NOVEMBER - PHOENIX
Met with Director of Exhibits at Children's Museum of Phoenix, Nancy Stice - a great conversation re: Wolfrog and a plethora of related topics. Met Education Director at Phoenix Art Museum. Checked out Phoenix Theatre, Arizona Science Center, and Musical Instrument Museum - MIM. Good initial contacts made with all!
Thanks to Mindy & Ed for the hosting!
11 NOVEMBER - EL PASO, TX
Played at Taco Cabana with Rodrigo de Carlos. Random thing over lunch stop. Quite fun! We played "Let It Be" and "Tequila."
10 NOVEMBER - FORT STOCKTON, TX
Went to a Diwali Festival Party in this town of 8,000. Had a delightful time. Danced with beautiful, openly warm indian women and men - aged 5-80! About 120 people there. Happy Diwali to all!
6-10 NOVEMBER - SAN ANTONIO
Monday - looked in on SA Children's Art Museum. Heard Edgar Meyer play with the 96-member SA Youth Symphony at the Majestic Theatre. This is one of five YOSA orchestras with 320 budding musicians with tons of community support. Very moving.
Tuesday - met with Educational Director at Witte Museum re: Wolfrog. Toured the ever-expanding facilities at Rackspace. Great sushi after.
Wednesday - Met with new VP Lindsay Wilson at The Children's Shelter re: working with their youth & Wolfrog. Toured TCS' beautiful campus and did a spontaneous workshop with a dozen 6-9 year-olds as they were polishing off lunch in TCS' on-campus cafeteria. Martinis with brilliant, kindred spirit web guru dude, Harry Max. Thanks for the hang, fellow pod brother Harry!
Thursday - Encouraging news from SA Children's Museum re: Wolfrog. Thoroughly relaxed & spaced-in cooking a Moroccan-inspired feast for the delightful Ms. M. A splended and enjoyable evening capped off with Adult Chocolate Milk at neighbor's home.
Thanks to Susan for the hosting! Love you, girl!
3-5 NOVEMBER- DENTON/DALLAS/FT. WORTH, TX
Vistited my undergrad alma mater, University of North Texas. Hung with head of composition department Joseph Klein. Sat in on Brian Bowman's amazing euphonium studio class - heard fantastic euphonium sextet composed by student. Heard the opening notes of Apparition of Eternal Luminescence on the magnificent Wolff & Associates organ in UNT's new Murchison Performance Arts Center. Went to guest lecture by Steven Kazuo Takasugi from Harvard. Played two sets at Banter in group led by Scrote with Branden Harper on drums + Jeffrey Barnes & YT as special guests.
Video clip here.
Drummed up interest in Wolfrog at UNT, Nature & Science Museun in Dallas & Ft. Worth's Museum of Science & History.
Captivated by Siegfried on the big screen as part of The Met Opera's HD simulcast series. Robert Lepage's production is a Can't Miss Event. Jay Hunter Morris stepping into the title role of Siegfried with one week's notice also introduced the 56 countries watching worldwide to the birth of a new opera star!
Thanks to Dee & Paulette for the hosting!
31 OCTOBER & 1 NOVEMBER - KANSAS CITY
An amazing abundance of energy and enthusiam from students & faculty at KCAI during a two-day music workshop in the Foundations program. We created, produced & presented 11 original pieces of music in seven classroom hours.
Of these new works, seven were created with 21-piece Percussion Ensemble from Special Instructor Gamble's class - using handmade "striking tools" & using the campus grounds as our "instument." The remaining four were created with two 80-voice choirs with eight Foundations classes participating.
Recordings of eight of these works can be found under Latest Works page.
Huge thanks to Misty Gamble, Russell Ferguson, Hugh Merrill, Sherry Sparks, David Overholt, Caleb Taylor, Brett Reif, Jim Sajovic & all the students and staff at KCAI for a wonderful and fulfilling time at KCAI! Blessings to all of you!
Encouraging meeting with directors at Science City & City Theatre in Union Station re: presenting Wolfrog.
Thanks to Misty for the hosting!
29 - 30 OCTOBER - ST. LOUIS
Enjoyed Mozart's Don Giovanni on the big screen as part of The Met Opera's HD simulcast series. Up next, Siegfried on Saturday! Will be watching this one in Dallas.
A thoroughly enjoyable meeting with ED & Development Directors of COCA - Center of Creative Arts re: presenting Wolfrog. Also enjoyed a puppet/live actors delightful, engaging presentation of Alice in Wonderland by the Canadian ensemble Tout a Trac.
Enjoyed a Halloween bash at Heavy Anchor.
Thanks to Mitch & Maureen for the hosting!
27 OCTOBER - BLOOMINGTON, IN
A great meeting with director at Wonderlab re: presenting Wolfrog.
Met with professor in Education Department at Indiana University.
Heard the incredible Dave Liebman play with his amazing trio (Vic Juris, Tony Marino, Marko Marcinko) at Bear's Place. One of the heaviest jazz concerts I've ever heard. The band was smokiin' and members of IU's jazz department and tons of their students were all riveted to the entrancing, completely original, profoundly compelling sounds coming from the stage.
Thanks to Pat and Chris for the hosting!
26 OCTOBER - INDIANAPOLIS, IN
Went to the largest children's museum on the planet, the amazing Indianapolis Children's Museum. Rounding the corner off Meridian Street, giant dinosaurs were bursting out of the building and looked as if they were ready to trample cars! Inside vampires, funhouses and science exhibits, and tons of fun for children of all ages!
Thanks to Dan & Noelle for the hosting!
21 & 22 OCTOBER * GOSHEN, IN
VEIL/REALITY
- A LOVE SONNET TO THE MIDWEST
"Art has no other purpose than to brush aside the conventional and accepted generalities. In short everything that veils reality from us, in order to bring us face to face with reality itself"
~ Henri Bergson
Eleven-Space Multi-Media Journey
comprising 1700 square feet of Michiana Center for the Arts.
An Art Fun House - Fun and Engaging for All Ages!
Concept by JAB
Andrew J. Rogers, Producer
WHAT: Veil/Reality ~ A Love Sonnet to the Midwest
WHERE: Michiana Center for the Arts
113.5 East Lincoln
Goshen, IN 46528
WHEN: Oct 21 & 22 * 5PM - Midnight
COST: $5 Entrance. Children under 12 FREE.
Was lovely to see Veil/Reality installation come to life - ably assisted by Andrew J. Rogers, Eric Ford, Adam Miller, Jonah, Tim Hochstettler, Nathan Butler & Steve Freeto. Thank you kind gents!
15 OCTOBER - WORLDWIDE
Global Day of Action:
www.15october.net
Later will be at MCA, Electric Brew to hear Michelle Flora, The Wine Cellar & Constant Spring - trumpet in tow!
13 OCTOBER - Elkhart, IN
Was promoting my Veil/Reality Show around Elkhart today. Stopped in at Occupy Elkhart & demonstrated for about 45 minutes. Was on street corner with adorable 8, 9 year-old girl named Kennedy who was holding a sign saying "Honk if you are not a millionaire either." ; )
7 OCTOBER - Goshen, IN
Sitting in with singer/songwriter Jessica Smucker at Electric Brew 8PM. Should be a great night out with First Fridays! Come out and support your local Arts Community!
3 OCTOBER - Goshen, IN
A GREAT show on Saturday! Thanks to all who attended and helped make it happen: Larry, Kathy & Wayne, Colleen & Gary, Jeremy, Nolan, Jane, Phil & Peter, Auntie Lanie, Gateway Wine Cellars, Eric Kanagy & Red Post Crew, New World Arts & the fabulous Steve Freeto whom I was honored to have as producer of this event. Steve - you are a consummate professional every step of the way. Gratitude to you all!
1 OCTOBER - Goshen, IN
NEW WORLD ARTS & THE WINE CELLAR in Goshen, IN are hosting ~ An Evening with JAB: Music, Conversation & Whimsy
1 OCTOBER 2011 * 6:00 - 10:00PM
211 S. Main Street * Goshen, IN 46528
6:00 - 8:00PM * Gateway Wine Cellars * Wine and Jazz with JAB and mirthful interludes. JAB will be doing his busking schtick on the streets of Goshen, come into the Cellar, play some Gershwin, sing some Chet Baker, riff on some other jazz faves, hang out with you at your tables, help you drink your wine ; ) etc...
THEN FROM
8:00 - 10PM, we take the Moveable Feast upstairs to the New World Arts Theatre where there will be a Roundtable Discussion, Live & Pre-Recorded Music, Q&A & Random Shots of Booze.
I leave the MidWest on 3-month West Coast tour on 26 Oct - taking Southern Route across US through Indianapolis, Bloomington, Kansas City, St. Louis, Dallas, San Antonio, Yuma, LA, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Francisco, NorCal, OR, Seattle, San Juan Islands, Spokane...
Along the way, I will be:
1) Meeting with Directors of Art Museums re: The Wolfrog Project.
2) Making Guest Lectures & Teaching Appearances
3) Gigging, Recording, Busking & basking in the warmth of dear friends, great food and wine!
This evening is produced by Steve Freeto
in Conjunction with Gateway Wine Cellars &
New World Arts
Special Guest: Elaine McKeough
$15 suggested donation
No One Turned Away for Lack of Funds
21 SEPTEMBER - Elkhart, IN
Have begun lining up first dates on 2011 US MidWest to West Coast via Southern Route Tour! Leaving Elkhart, IN on Oct. 25. Locking in Indianapolis, Bloomington, St. Louis, Kansas City, Dallas, San Antonio, Phoenix, Yuma, LA, Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Francisco... San Juan Islands, Spokane...
18 SEPTEMBER - Elkhart, IN
I am upright and feeling great! Walking among the living again! Got tons of work done today following 7.5 hours of sleep - first time I've slept more than six hours since May! Found ALL my music notation for Apparition of Eternal Luminescence - thought the score was lost in Paris theft. This gain alone represents over 300 hours of work, which has now been alleviated from my concerns and time. Also located all the preliminary sketches for Veil/Reality & about 30% of my sketches for Not Enough Living to Take Care of the Dead, and all the course work develolped and executed at Jukola!
So elated I was literally shaking!
16 SEPTEMBER - Elkhart, IN
Going "home" today. This whole experience has been overwhelming as 1) I've been playing throughout Europe since I was 13 and have never been robbed & 2) I've not spent a night in the hospital since I was 17 years old. That was one night. This was four.
Am now going to beautiful abode where I can:
Live my last five weeks in Midwest in Peace.
Create and produce Veil/Reality in Peace.
Plan, coordinate, fundraise for Fall 2011 - Spring 2012 US Tour in Peace.
Huge thanks to my uber friends Kate & Chris for this generous space to breathe, emerge anew, move... on!
Pax & Blessings to All! Thank you ALL for such abundance of warnth, well wishes, prayers, thoughts, donations, Everything! I love you all! xo, JAB
14 SEPTEMBER - Elkhart, IN
"Our task is to find the few principles that will calm the infinite anguish of free souls. We must mend what has been torn apart, make justice imaginable again in a world so obviously unjust, give happiness a meaning once more to peoples poisoned by the misery of the century. Naturally, it is a superhuman task. But superhuman is the term for tasks we take a long time to accomplish, that's all."
~ Albert Camus
5 SEPTEMBER - CHICAGO
Enjoyed a fun "sound-off" with DJ Spin at a downtown loft.
3 SEPTEMBER - PARIS
Robbed with only five hours left on European tour. Shaken, but not hurt, thankfully.
1 SEPTEMBER - WEB
JAB is featured composer this month on Los Angeles Music Festival's home page. Thanks to mi amigo, Floyd Vasquez!
from Paris, JAB
www.losangelesmusicfestival.com
30 AUGUST - 3 SEPTEMBER - PARIS
Met with folks at Iglise de la Sainte-Trinite where Olivier Messiaen held court for 62 years re: Apparition of Eternal Luminescence. Met with professors at Le Conservatoire de Paris. Enjoyed some time off in this wonderful city!
26 - 30 AUGUST - SWITZERLAND
Bern, Biehle, Basel - some time off with dear friends Wadi & Irene at their lovely chalet above Biehle. A night in Bern with sweeping views of the majestic alps. Several days doing research at Paul Sacher Foundation. Thanks to Matthias and family for hosting in Basel & to Robert for an unforgettable dining experience there as well!
20 AUGUST - VIENNA
Off to St. Michael's Kirche in District 1 to hear the great organ. Parts of the church date to the 13th century. The organ was finished in 1726 - BACH would've been 29! After the concert - which featured music from the Baroque era - the audience was invited upstairs to check out this magnificent tracker organ. in this photo the organist is playing the opening sounds of my composition Apparition of Eternal Luminescence - without knowing it. Those around are bemused &/or vexed and the glory of the light doth surround!
19 AUGUST - KREMS AU DONAU, AUSTRIA
Went to a lovely European Food Sovereignty Forum called Nyelini in nearby picturesque Krems. There I met folks from all over Europe, Africa, US, etc. There were many musicians performing and then a play explaining the plight of farmers all over the world who long to run their farms the old way - slow food, organic food. At the end of this performance I played the great Chilean song "El Pueblo Unido Jamas Sera Vencido!" by Sergio Ortega & Quilapayun. This song grew out of the Unidad Popular coalition in Chile between 1969 and 1973, prior to the overthrow of Salvador Allende's Socialist government; becoming an anthem of resistance against the evil dictator Pinoshit. It was later used as the grand theme of American composer Frediric Rzewski's 36 variations entiled "The People United Will Never Be Defeated!" The organizers had also asked me to play on the stage afterwards for ten minutes. I performed Gershwin's "Summertime" - as it is somehow a favorite this year (and it was 80 degrees outside) followed by an excerpt from my Elegy for Japan, Not Enough Living to Take Care of the Dead. It was an honor to be a small part of this wonderful celebration of food, thoughts and ideas! Everything witnessed there was beautiful - every idea, every food and especially every single person! Thanks to mein fein freund Willy for taking me to this great event! Prost, kleiner Bruder!
18 AUGUST - HELSINKI, FINLAND
On Monday 15 Elokuu I performed with two different groups & did a solo "comprov" piece. This took place in Helsinki at a super cool, laid-back club called Bar Mendocino. The Monday evening event has been happening for 5+ years & owner Tommi is respectful of all music. So glad my new friend Hinni let me know of this!
Had a peaceful morning Tuesday. Met later in afternoon with an old friend on faculty at Sibelius Academy, then new friend who works for YLE - Finland's premier national channel re: a new project.
Yesterday, I met with director ofFinland'sPop & Jazz Konservatorio - the only one of its kind in the Nordic Countries. The facilities at PJK are A-1, as is the director. I heard a duet of ambient jazz guitar and solo soprano in one room which was quite beautiful! The duo was working with talented solo female dancer - a very Scandinavian-looking, long-legged blonde young woman! Kaunis!
Later in the afternoon I flew from Helsinki
to Copenhagen and onto Vienna where I now sit on best friend in EU's balcony! Prost!
11 AUGUST - NIEMELA, FINLAND
Our second and final concert of two-week Summer Music Camp was held this early evening. Wrote this ballad for the amazing, talented, beautiful, wonderful children of Jukola to begin the evening. "Faces on the wall" is referring to photos hanging in room where I composed and performed this song. Photographs of children with whom I worked in the early days of this great great great organization nearly 20 years ago.
The whole experience of coming back and doing this heart-wrenching and vastly fulfilling work has been overwhelming at times...
My love to each!
Balladi Jukolan Lapsille
Tears filled my eyes,
When I first arrived,
on the last day of July
before I met
You.
First an old friend then a new.
On Monday, I met You,
and we began to do...
something new.
I was here before, you know
but that was many years ago.
I remember the snow.
Then it was time to go...
The faces on the wall;
These children have grown tall.
They used to be so small.
Oh, how I'd love to see them all!
But now there is
You.
~~~~~
~~~
~~
~
.
GaU
In these photos - all the children's faces must be blurred as they are wards of the State.
These two boys (ages 11 & 12) are such delights. Soooooo precious, so beautiful...
4 AUGUST - NIEMELA, FINLAND
~~~~~
~~~
~~
~
.
GaU
1 AUGUST - NIEMELA, FINLAND
Here is where I will live for the next two weeks! It's my very own Summer cottage (Kesa-Mokki) at Jukola compound.
This is the view from the porch. The Musikka Halle (where I begin teaching in 3 hours) is the big building down the path...
And this is my indoor workstation with my little Kesa bed in the background. The smell of the woods and the whisping wind through the spruce and birch are wonderful! (You can see birch out window beside my table/desk)
It is mostly full light from 11PM until ca. 5AM - with a twilight-y hue through the other six hours! What time is it???!
30 JULY - HELSINKI, FINLAND
After 26 hours, I finally arrived in Helsinki last evening just before midnight. I met so many wonderful people along the way - including several lovely ladies of Lufthansa, a geological student from France, and an alt medicine apostole auf Deutschland. I arrived in Helsinki City Center with only US Dollars, which no establishments would accept. Asking to pull up a chair on an outside terrace overlooking the plaza in front of the main train station to rest my leg (Yes, only four weeks since I began walking again!) my new friend Thomas was asking to buy me a beer and becoming yet another delightful friend along the way. Eventually my dear friend Lilli (whom I've known since 1992) arrived and we enjoyed the remainder of a beautiful Summer eve.
In 2.5 hours I hop on a a train to Jukola where I begin an intensive two-week music camp on Monday! Ciao!
9 JULY - INDIANA
On the Fourth of July, Dick Cripe (owner of the building housing MCA) invited me down south to spend time with his wife and their extended families on Lake Syracuse.
Dick had asked me to bring along my trumpet. I obliged. Asking to play a benediction before the meal, I softly played "America, the Beautiful" Then with bowed heads, we were guided in a thank-full prayer by Dick's son-in-law and soon piled plates high with meats, salads & fruits.
Talking with some of the old-timers gathered around this beautiful lake, sitting under giant oaks, I learned that many had served in the armed forces - including Dick's brother, Robert, who had served in WWII. Reflecting on George Crumb's Winds of Destiny (recently heard at OMF), I played some songs from the Civil War - "When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again" & "Battle Hymn of the Republic." I balanced out the evening with some selections from Gershwin, Foster, Sousa & other patriotic warhorses, "Back Home Again in Indiana" and naturally - a touch of jazz.
When it seemed like the fireworks were soon to begin, I pointed my horn straight out over the lake and played the "Star-Spangled Banner." Looking up, I noticed that every person within eyesight was standing! It was pretty cool. As I reached the "And the rockets red glare..." line, I could hear my trumpet echoing several seconds later across and around this rather large lake. Finishing with a fanfared flourish, I was acknowledged with a thunderous cheer from beyond the darkening shores. I was touched. (Of course, many of you already know I am a bit touched! ; )
The sparkling, dazzling, well-timed fireworks display that followed was the perfect capper on a wonderful day of true Americana in the Heartland.
6 JULY - INDIANA
An Artichoke is perhaps
the strangest food I've met,
The more I eat and eat and eat,
the bigger it does get.
in laughter with Ogden Nash
JAB, June 2011
3 JULY - INDIANA
I fished a bird out of the pool this evening.
I had thought it was already dead but alas! when I removed it from the water - It Breathed! I tried to help it - gathering food, water, blanket and cat carrier from the garage. I returned and found it gasping for breath - struggling to stay alive for every last breath - every second to remain here on our magnificent planet. I picked it up and held it in my gloved hands. I tried to get her to eat from the medicine dropper my mother brought to the pool's edge. I gently tried to "pump" out it's soaked lungs! I had no idea what I was doing - except my best. The bird struggled valiantly and nobly. It's eyes opening wide-eyed from time to time. Fireworks went off in the background. The bird heard these and I told her that our National Emblem is one of her kind - a noble creature that pierces the sky with grace and dignity. I placed her on a shaggy pink blanket inside the cat carrier and let her go. I returned two hours later and she had passed - hopefully in peace. I brought a box out, wrapped her in newspaper covered with colorful images of fireworks and spoke my final blessings for this wonderful once-living animal.
"I now give her back to you," I whispered softly; presenting the now-breathless animal to the air in which it had so recently flown.
I thank this bird for again reminding me of the preciousness of all that surrounds us daily.
~~~~~
~~~
~~
~
29 JUNE - INDIANA
Back "home" again in Indiana : (
Here are some photos from Spokane, WA, where I hung with my brother. Also saw Terrence Malick's Tree of Life, which was utterly mesmerizing.
20 JUNE - LOS ANGELES
Hanging with my pal, Rudy Perez.
4-7 JUNE - OJAI, CA
Here are some photos from Ojai Muisic Festival. Among this year's highlights were meeting George Crumb & Peter Sellars & witnessing the premiere of Sellar's staged production of Crumb's American Songbook 4, Winds of Destiny, with Dawn Upshaw as woman soldier returning from Iraq afflicted, tormented with PTSD. Stunning. Also the brilliant madman Richard Tognetti led the Australian Chamber Orchestra in spell-binding performances.
The New Libbey Bowl with superb musicians from Argentina.
Ojai Opening Gala with Dawn Upshaw & eighth blackbird.
4 JUNE -OJAI, CA
Backstage at the New Libby Bowl in Ojai, CA. Working the Green Room here tonight for the gala opening event.
26 MAY - SAN FRANCISCO
Some pix from recording session with Ted Savarese.
Recording a piece for Cuban-born singer/songwriter Maria Vilaboy here. (note Tigger on my improvised mute!)
Recording the "bass" line on my tune "Walking on a Sunny Street."
25 MAY - SAN FRANCISCO
Have been in my old city by the bay for nearly two weeks now. Rain, cold-grey, Ireland weather...
Here is my cockpit on stage at Erling Wold's opera Queer. Michele Walther is tuning her fiddle beside me. Lurking in the background is the delightful & devilish Joe Wicht - aka Trauma Flintstone.
Video here.
Enjoyed the NY Met Opera Simulcast of Die Walkure by Wagner. If you haven't caught these amazing productions, you should check out. Behind the scenes, up close, interviews, etc. This one was hosted by Placido Domingo.
I've been with wonderful old friends, met new friends and superb musicians, have had some excellent meetings re: upcoming projects.
Tomorrow I will be featured on KUNM, the Albuquerque NPR station. 9PM PST. My friend Floyd Vasquez will be the host of his monthly show called "FRESH!" You can hear stream here.
