A Few Thoughts for the End of Summer

Summer break is ending, but, happily, the music continues.  I play at the Portland City Grill tonight and Friday.  It is always a pleasure.

It is amazing that this week marks the 31st anniversary of my leaving Illinois for Los Angeles.  I had just finished my Masters degree in music for the theater, and I thought perhaps I would be heading to New York and Broadway.  That was not to be.  I really didn't know anyone in NYC, but I was so fortunate to have two friends who encouraged me to redirect my trip to L.A.  Both had made the same choice in their musical careers: Darryl Phinnessee, an incredible vocalist and composer, a long-time touring vocalist with Michael Jackson, and an SIU classmate of mine; and Alan Oldfield, a truly inspiring pianist, composer, session musician, and (fortunately for me) a former SIU educator extraordinaire who helped me find my bearings in a new environment, music.  Both Darryl and Alan were very positive and successful in their work, and they also were very kind and generous with their time and advice for me.  I am still very thankful to them for their encouragement and inspiration.

Now I find myself in Portland, which is a beautiful city and also a great music performance town.  I continue to be inspired by the talent around me.  It helps be continue to strive to improve as a pianist, composer, and musical director.  Carbondale to Los Angeles to Portland; so far, so good.

Summer Has Arrived

It has taken about ten days for me to adjust to the idea that summer break is here. Now I can go to play in public in a little better rested condition. What a luxury!  This last Sunday was a long day of music, but I had the pleasure of playing with a wonderful jazz band for a dinner/dance fundraiser. It was great to fill in for John Bennett and to play with Wayne Travillion and Dave Duthie again, along with Dave Evans on reeds, Brent Martens on guitar, and Sam Foulger on drums. Great band, great music.

I just received the video of our MelloMac Spring Concert.  This was our Gershwin Show, and it features Kit Taylor on piano, Dave Duthie on bass, and Ron Leach on drums.  Find it on youtube at https://youtu.be/bYZM0SSgxlc and enjoy!  You will easily see that George Gershwin is one of my favorites.

See you at the Portland City Grill on Fridays at 5 p.m.

Happy New Year to all!

It looks like we are sold out at Gracie's tonight, but the musical celebration will continue into the weekend.  I will be at the Portland City Grill a little later this week (6 pm to 9 pm) to ring in the New Year.  Also check my calendar for Wednesdays in January and February at the PCG.

I hope 2015 is a great year for all of us.  Happy New Year!

Hear the Angels Sing video

Hear the Angels Sing by Gus Pappelis and sung by Portland's Holy Family Catholic Church Choir on Sunday, December 21st.  The octavo is published by Oregon Catholic Press (edition 11991).

Last of the Christmas concerts

Two concert nights left. Tonight at 5pm my Christ the King choir sings at our home parish, and then later at approx. 6:30, I will join the Holy Family choirs as they sing their concert theme song (and my composition) Hear the Angels Sing. Tomorrow, my choir will sing at the Grotto's Festival of Lights at 7pm

Holiday Favorites tonight

This close to Christmas, it is hard to resist playing all the seasonal favorites.  The music starts at 5pm at the Portland City Grill Yamaha Grand.  Come on up for Portland's finest happy hour and songs to complement our city's festive holiday spirit.

Friday is Gershwin Night at the Portland City Grill

This Friday, September 26, marks the birthday of George Gershwin.  To celebrate, I will be featuring his songs at the Portland City Grill Yamaha grand.  Bring some friends and your list of favorite songs and join the fun.  The music starts around 5 p.m.