While the COVID virus certainly derailed plans to get this exciting sextet out and about like we had all hoped; the group was able to perform before an international audience virtually as part of the JENX Conference on Wed., Jan. 6th and again on Sat., the 9th. Video clips were taken from the group’s Timucua Arts Series concert as well as recording sessions at the new Morrisound Studios in Tampa.

As the initial airing for JEN was marred by transmission issues, I’ve re-posted it here. Three new compositions written expressly for ReSurgence are now available in the webstore under the “Small Jazz Ensemble” heading:

• And Your Point Is . . . ?
• Apalachicola
• What Once Was Lost

There’s much more to come from this wonderful group of creative musicians! Stay tuned!!

After almost 40 years at USF, filled with great memories, experiences, and opportunities; I decided to take advantage of the University’s retirement incentive program.  Officially, I’ll remain on faculty until August 1^st, 2021 (giving me much needed time to figure out how I can possibly thank the leagues of dear friends, colleagues, staff, administrators, and – most importantly – students that have supported and inspired me throughout my tenure); however, I will be on research leave for the upcoming spring semester.

I’ll always be an educator and, after a bit of a break to do some intensive composing, I look forward to exploring new opportunities to share my thoughts and experiences with young musicians.   In the meantime, here are a few pics from my time at USF.    More will be posted in the gallery soon.

Online composition lessons, clinics, and rehearsal critiques may be booked through this new venture that features many great artists in jazz, classical, and popular musics. For more info: https://www.artistaccess.net

Writing new music and very excited about the re-launch of a sextet comprised largely of members of the Jazz Surge called, appropriately, ReSurgence!  The ensemble will gather in Tampa in late August for a series of rehearsals, recording sessions, and performances.  While NO commercial release of these new works is planned, there are opportunities for you to get an inside peak at the recordings, the ensemble/musicians, even the recording sessions themselves!  For concert tickets and more info on how you can be involved, click here.

Resurgence is:

• Sara Caswell, Vln.
• Jack Wilkins, Sax
• Corey Christiansen, Guitar
• Chuck Owen, Keyboards (yes, I’ll be playing!!!)
• Mark Neuenschwander, Bass
• & Matt Wilson, Drums

Florida Concert Dates

Back to Cologne, Germany for four days of recording some new charts for an upcoming CD with this incredible band!  Pinch me!!  So delighted Sara Caswell (vln.) could join this time as featured guest soloist.  After having violin as a mainstay in my own Jazz Surge for over 15 years, I realize how much I hear it as part of the normal fabric of my big band writing.  Not sure when the music will become available as completion of the recording has not yet been scheduled; but you can be sure I’ll let you know about it!!