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Barry was talking about preparing for a gig he might or might not do.

It hit me while I was practicing. Every one should spend time 'preparing' for a gig. Even if you don't have one, or feel like you're not good enough. Whatever!!!

When I post my solo pieces, I'm always preparing for my solo vibe CD. I might never make this cd, but I'm always preparing for it. That gives me a level that I have to achieve with each piece.

I fantasize about making a solo cd. So I'm always preparing for it. That means I'm practicing 'for real'.

Quite strange how a tune can fit with a mood...

I got this beautiful version of Summertime, once more thanks to Face Book... and felt like sharing it with you.

Thanks for "being with me"... through it.

- M

Here's a video of me playing the last movement of the 'Jazz Suite' by Richard Michael. It's mostly written out, but there are a few improvised sections I'm sure you can spot. It's pretty challenging technically and rhythmically, but a lot of fun once you get it together. Enjoy.

Tony you're in trouble!

I finally found the stick drop master of all times...

Don't worry this beautiful performance only lasts 50 secondes... But watch that terrific SD!! I was totally hooked! ;o)

- M

Check out Franz Bauer. Pretty cool stuff, huh?

Tell us Toddc? Record producer? Drummer? Vibe player?

I'll just pass this letter along for the real vibe geeks!

This guy called Nico got information and then went to a machine shop to get the work done on his yamaha!!!

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Tony, Thanks you for introducing Nico Vanderplas to me after telling him about my Yamaha YV2700 keybed problems with the sounds of the last seven bars in the high register.

I just wanted to give a quick shout-out to recommend the DVD of Gary and Makoto Ozone's Live at Montreux DVD from the 2002 performance. I was just websurfing last week at Amazon and discovered this, and I didn't even know that it was available. As much as I like the CD, the DVD adds that "third player" - the audience, and I think you'll enjoy this even more.

This is the quintessential recording of this tune. Maybe some of the younger guys haven't heard it??

Stop, sit and lesson.

If you didn't know this it makes the tune even heavier.

Billy Strayhorn wrote this tune at age 17 (if my research is correct, i.e. his biography). Listen to the words.

Is this one of the most heaviest songs or what? I get chills listening to it.

And then add Johnny Hartman and Coltrane and this is off the map.