Happy birthday, John Lennon

Happy birthday, John Lennon.  Love is the answer.

Woodie Guthrie tribute

Woodie Guthrie died on this date in 1967 at the age of 55.  His younger years were troubled with monetary challenges.  His last years were troubled by physical and psychological difficulties. Despite his many personal hardships, Guthrie's career as folk-singer and songwriter inspired a generation of folk music enthusiasts who in turn inspired a folk-rock cultural explosion in the 1950's, 60's, and 70's.  I grew up listening to Peter, Paul, and Mary, Bob Dylan, and even Arlo Guthrie (Woodie's son), but  Guthrie's influence touched so many performers and groups of that time.  Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, Pete Seeger, and so many more have acknowledged him as a major inspiration for their work.  Although he may be best know as the composer of This Land Is Your Land (1940), his numerous songs reflect the America of his time: The Great Depression and Dust Bowl days, Hoboes and farm workers, politicians and corruption, wars, famines, class inequality, etc.  Regardless of our individual social and political bent, I think we call all appreciate Woodie Guthrie for being one of the unique and original voices of the American spirit.

Gus Pappelis Productions

Gus Pappelis Productions supplied the musical entertainment for the Planned Parenthood Columbia Willamette Golden Anniversary Gala fundraiser/celebration last Friday. The Portland Art Museum Grand Ballroom was electrified with over 450 happily enthusiastic and energic guests.  Our Governor John Kitzhaber and many other state officials and dignitaries were in attendance. It was a smashing success, and I am happy to report that the orchestra was superb: Carlton Jackson on drums, Neal Grandstaff on guitar, Brian Healey on bass, and yours truly on piano.  Jazz and popular favorites were enjoyed by all.  This was one of the nicest galas I have been to in a long time.  Congrats to Charles M. and his staff on putting together a wonderful event.

Tomorrow we kick off a new MelloMac season at the Multnomah Athletic Club: a new Cole Porter review, Anything Goes (knowing the MelloMacs, it could just as easily been titled Let's Misbehave!).  It will be a great musical for us to enjoy this year.

Oscar Hammerstein tribute

I play tonight and tomorrow night at the Portland City Grill, 5 pm.  This beautiful venue offers an  excellent Yamaha grand, an incredible 30th-floor-view of the city, and a warm and animated energy in the guests in the bar and around the piano.  It's one of the happiest happy hours in Portland (and probably anywhere), and for me it's a fantastic place to perform.  Along with the many special requests I receive from guests, this week I will feature some unforgettable songs of Oscar Hammerstein in honor of that iconic lyricist who died on Aug. 23, 1960. Oscar Hammerstein's legacy will continue as long as there are people who love beautiful lyrics and and wonderful Broadway shows. Of course, we all delight in his personal lyrical contribution (especially his numerous collaborations with composers Jerome Kern and Richard Rodgers), but we should also remember his contribution as a mentor and teacher for one particular young and gifted student, Stephen Sondheim.

Music on my blog page

It’s so nice to have my music page up and running.  There are many pieces I want to share with you, but it will take a little time for me to get everything in the correct format.  I have posted a couple selections off of my albums: To My Valentine, which is a live quartet collection of romantic favorites; and My Christmas Wish, solo piano pieces for a mellow holiday mood.  I also found a couple original songs (there are many more yet to be posted).  Magical Time was a piece written for a special promotion for Walt Disney World (lyrics by Arthur Hamilton of Cry Me a River fame, music by yours truly).  Angels Among Us was inspired by watching a children choirs singing for the holidays. There is a song introduction lyric that goes “church bells ring and children sing of Bethlehem’s Star and a newborn king.”  The angels among us are the singing children who are also joined by choirs of angels in one beautiful song of love. The version posted here was my original composer’s demo.  The lyrics have since been touched up, but the sentiment is still the same. Angels Among Us has been enjoyed by many. 

Happening now at ivories

Still deciding what to do tonight? Dinner and music!

Oscar Peterson tribute

It was early in my listening days that I discovered the incredible music of the legendary Canadian pianist, Oscar Peterson.  I would listen to him for hours, trying to decipher his unique style and those wonderful unending and effortless waves of notes and rhythms.  Yes, his technique was immense, but even more astounding was his amazing sense of Swing that filled every phrase.  His musicality has been a wonderful inspiration for me.  I don't claim his depth of talent or technique, but I do love his music and I know my playing has been greatly shaped by listening to him.  I can recommend a great website that is a tribute to Oscar Peterson.  It's Toronto's wonderful JAZZ.FM91, and the tribute station can be found at: www.jazz.fm/index.php/listen-mainmenu/web-radio.

I play tomorrow night at Ivories here in Portland.  Joining me will be our Portland bass phenom Dylan Sundstrom and our own legendary Northwest Jazz drummer Carlton Jackson.  It should be a beautiful evening of fine music, inspired by many greats including Oscar Peterson.  You can get more information about this exciting venue at their site: www.ivoriesjazz.com.