I’m happy to say that 2013 was even better than 2012. As a performer I’ve had the opportunity to play over 160 shows this year, both with my main projects and as a guest with some of my favorite Seattle bands and musicians. As a teacher I’ve continued my work with schools all over the city as well as with my own students, giving me a chance to make music and have a great time with over 50 kids aged 6 – 60. I got into grant writing, I traveled the coast and border states, and my chickens are still alive. Yep, a good year!
This past year has been incredible. As a performer I’ve been lucky enough to play over 140 shows in a dozen cities with 45 stellar musicians making up 20 different groups, not including the many I’ve met and played with at sessions and private events. As a teacher I’ve witnessed long-time students enter music programs all over the country and continue their growth here at home. As a homeowner, I survived a brutal attack by what I can only assume to be jazz-hating yellow jackets that built a nest in my backyard. Revenge is a dish best served in a spray-can filled with poison.
2012 Highlights
After joining Seattle’s Table & Chairs Records, Hardcoretet‘s album Do It Live got the press and radio attention it deserved and reached #16 on the CMJ (US) Top 40 Jazz Chart and #8 on the Earshot (Canada) Jazz Chart. McTuff recorded a new album at Electrokitty studio and our residency at Seamonster Lounge produced a constant flow of notable nights including a drop-in by Dave Matthews Band saxophonist Jeff Coffin, a night of music by Richie Aldente featuring Richie himself (Tim Kennedy), and the birth of TIBORFEST – the celebration of Seattle’s most energetic and supportive music fan. Jen Grajewski at Kentridge High School, my alma mater and home to Washington’s best drama department, contracted me to direct the pit in two shows, Legally Blonde the Musical and Godspell, and Farko and Feodor Dosumov enlisted Joe Doria and myself to fill out their jazz fusion group Double Trouble. Continue reading 2012 In Review→
