There are a lot of potential solo gigs out there for vibes players at local eateries, cafes, street fairs, etc. Granted they don't pay much but it is a great opportunity to work on your repertoire and your solo chops.

Some folks posted about Storms / Nocturnes and our London appearance. I thought some who are unfamiliar with this trio might like to sample a taste. This is a piece by the saxophonist and main composer in the group, Tim Garland, entitled "Night Forest". I love Tim's writing. He won a Grammy award this past year for the symphonic arrangements he did for Chick & Gary's 35 anniversary CD with the Sydney Symphony. Oh, BTW - the pianist in Storms / Nocturnes is Geoffrey Keezer... he's one of a kind!
-Joe Locke

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

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Here's a lesson from a while back. I didn't dig it so I never posted. I didn't think I really did a good job Illustrating it. Maybe it's not so bad, but I think the idea is important.

It's about role playing, thinking like you're a different instrument. I think putting your brain in a different point of reference can really help your playing.

Let me know what you think.

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?