Writing on a blizzardy Wednesday from Newburgh, NY. Not that much snow so far and I love watching the TV newsreaders who are trying to make a non story into front page news.
Last Monday night with my Big Band and singer Billy Stritch at Birdland was more fun than diving naked into a warm vat of chocolate. Billy in front of the band, singing his tail off. Songs made famous by others but Billy made them all his own. My band blew the roof off the joint too. Hoping we can do this show again and again.
Was at Iridium the past week or so with Terese Genecco and her Little Big Band. Energy and talent plus. Fun to work with her and especially Jon Burr, one of my faves on Bass and Barry Levitt on Piano...plus Mayra Casales on Bongoes and Conga. Want to do that again as soon as my schedule permits.
Sold the WMP six ply 1997 Ludwig Set to Tommy Piorek. I'm so pleased that they went to someone who will use them and also someone who appreciates them. Great drums. I just have too many sets! Still available the Ludwig Maple Jazz Set in Black Lacquer. 18 x 16 BD, 8 x12 and 14 x 14 Toms, in perfect condition save for some tom rash on the small tom tom. There are pics here somewhere. Buy this set before I change my mind.
Nothing new on the Liza front. She is recovering nicely I hear from knee surgery and is happy to be pain free. Hope she gets back on the road soon to do what she does best...Live Performances!!!!
I'm off to Scotland next week for meetings and music. Good things will be coming out of these meetings for the future. Check back here soon.
Santa Rosa Symphony Academy Awards Movie Night Concert on Feb 27/28th. I'll be conducting the greatest music from the films you know and love. Come on out. The Orchestra is wonderful and I'm always in the Lobby after the show to schmooze and say hello.
April will bring two Big Band Concerts with my Band and the Four Freshman. April 7 & 8th in Sacramento and Napa, Ca. The Freshman sound amazing and are really fun to share the stage with...
Also back to Santa Rosa for a John Denver Tribute in April.
Looking forward to a Benny Goodman Quartet Tribute in the Fall at Iridium with Dan Levinson on clarinet. Dates to follow.
Ready for Spring. Bring it on. Thanks to all who wrote me about my favorite drummers in the last installment. Of course, I have another 500 or so I could add to the list.
Play DW drums and Bosphorous Cymbals. The Best Drums and Cymbals on Earth!
Stay Warm.
In the words of Harvey Estrin..."Times Are So Bad, even guys who lie, are complaining."
Stay Positive.
Soon,
MB
