As an ensemble coach I am primarily interested in development of listening, expressive improvisation, arranging, and rhythm skills. Student musicians in every style deserve to have an ensemble experience that is progressive and rewarding, and learning to relax and make music in the moment is key to such an experience. While the performance of advanced compositions at school concerts etc is a worthy goal, these goals sometimes overshadow more significant aspects of group music making, such as ensemble sound, fidelity to style, and “vibe.”
Ensemble work should include group rhythm, listening, and improvisation practice away from the instrument, as well as realistic goals for performance. The pressures of music performance and group dynamics can strip musicians of their innate ability, and ensemble practice can exacerbate this problem unless it is addressed directly. Poor choice of repertoire and lack of standards can also make even promising ensembles counterproductive. When coaching with student groups I work to increase awareness of the self within the musical situation, reinforce essential skills, and encourage realistic choice of materials.
As an ensemble teacher I am inspired by Butch Morris, Pauline Oliveros, and the Blue Angels.
With the New Power Trio I co-led workshops on collaboration, rhythmic concepts, and composition at colleges and universities across the US. I have been a guest lecturer for jazz ensembles at USC, Columbia University, Brooklyn College, UC Irvine, and Cal State Long Beach. I am currently interested in working with student ensembles teaching:
- improvisation for beginners
- tonal improvisation
- jazz combos
- latin/afro-cuban ensembles
- intermediate/advanced concepts in jazz improvisation and rhythm
- composer/performer ensembles
