For those who have known me as a jazz bassist for many years, it might have been a shock to see my new home page photo. For the record, I’ve been doubling on flute for the past 13 years, but it has never been my prime instrument; until now that is. During 2016, I began taking flute lessons again, this time with Wendy Wagler at Renaissance School of the Arts in Waterloo, which has allowed me to experience a new excitement for the instrument. I’m now expanding my musical interests to encompass both jazz and classical, and my repertoire will gradually reflect this. There will also be occasions (through my other passion as a composer) to blend the genres and soften the boundaries between them.
My debut jazz appearance on the flute will occur on Thursday, February 9, 2017, at The Registry Theatre in Kitchener, when I’ll be performing with The Bernie Carroll Project as the opening show of the Winter Jazz Festival. The quintet will include Al Richardson (replacing me on bass), Ralph Hetke (piano), Dave Wiffen (tenor sax), and, of course, my lifelong musical comrade, Bernie Carroll (drums).
Many of you will recall The Project’s performance last February at The Jazz Room. You will also recall that there was a sell out crowd and the room was charged by the energy and momentum of the band. You won’t want to miss our Registry appearance this year.
I’ll be posting more about the concert as the date draws near. In the meantime, Happy New Year to you all.