tag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:/blogs/big-band-and-vocal-jazz-charts?p=8Big Band and Vocal Jazz Charts2023-09-20T17:19:08-06:00benmarkleymusic.comfalsetag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/72763942023-09-20T17:19:08-06:002023-10-16T08:46:57-06:00Live Edge Trio - Look for the Silver Lining <p>New Album Release!!! Live Edge Trio - Look for the Silver Lining</p><p>Andy Wheelock, Seth Lewis, Ben Markley</p><p>Look for the Silver Lining - out today on all streaming platforms</p><p><a class="no-pjax" href="https://music.apple.com/.../look-for-the.../1708236089">https://music.apple.com/.../look-for-the.../1708236089</a></p><p>Recording/Mixing/Mastering - Will Flagg</p><p>Album Artwork - Shawn Williams</p><p> </p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/131732/f390faa632ed594114f313adab33502fce92769e/original/live-edge-trio-silver-lining-front.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/70874822022-10-24T08:22:43-06:002022-10-24T08:59:14-06:00The School Sessions Vol. 1 - Available Today!<p><strong>The School Sessions Vol. 1 - Available Today!</strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/9f8f3c37fd63c04d7a0b00f13581123d68f8a38f/original/bmbb-page-1.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Last year I learned about a grant opportunity through the Wyoming Arts Council via the National Endowment for the Arts. The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was designed to “assist local governments nationwide with Covid-19 pandemic recovery.” What better way to do that than through the arts? During the last 10 years of my career I have been increasingly more interested in writing for big bands. I’ve formed my own big band, released recordings of my arrangements and have written for professional and college ensembles. As someone who regularly adjudicates high school jazz festivals, I have wanted to create some repertoire designed specifically for this age group for quite a while. This grant was the perfect opportunity. The School Sessions Vol. 1 represents 9 of my compositions that vary in difficulty to accommodate the range of different high school groups one can find in Wyoming. They were recorded by some of the finest musicians on the front range and provide students and directors with excellent examples from which to learn from. Finally, the charts were made available for free to all directors in the state of Wyoming. </p>
<p>As I set forth to write these charts, I tried to strike a balance between music that is interesting and fun to play while also being playable. This recording is one that is fun for listeners and attainable for young musicians to play while learning this great art form.</p>
<p>This album is available for purchase on my website and on all streaming services. </p>
<p>The band on this recording played just great. This was some of the most fun I've had on a session.</p>
<p><strong>Saxophones </strong></p>
<p>Wil Swindler </p>
<p>Daryl Gott </p>
<p>Peter Sommer </p>
<p>Heath Walton </p>
<p>Sam Williams </p>
<p><strong>Trombones </strong></p>
<p>Scott Crump </p>
<p>Darren Kramer </p>
<p>Adam Bartzcak </p>
<p>Jon Gauer </p>
<p><strong>Trumpets </strong></p>
<p>Jake Boldman </p>
<p>Jonathan Powell </p>
<p>Dawn Kramer </p>
<p>Gabe Mervine </p>
<p><strong>Rhythm Section</strong> </p>
<p>Ben Markley - piano </p>
<p>Steve Kovalcheck - guitar </p>
<p>Connor Koch - bass </p>
<p>Andy Wheelock - drums</p>
<p><b>This project was funded by a grant from the Wyoming Arts Council</b></p>
<p><strong>Recorded</strong>: August 6, 2022 at Mighty Fine Studios</p>
<p><strong>Recording Engineer</strong>: Loren Dorland</p>
<p><strong>Mixing and Mastering</strong>: Colin Bricker </p>
<p><strong>Album Artwork</strong>: Shawn Williams</p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/69958192022-06-16T21:45:01-06:002022-10-19T13:41:40-06:00Something came from Baltimore Jazz/Blues/R&B Podcast Interview<p>A while ago, I spoke with radio and podcast host Thomas Gouker about Ari's Funhouse on his show "Something came from Baltimore." It was fun to speak with someone who had really listened to the music. Tom has a great show and his podcasts are listened to all over the world. Check it out!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/b8800f836622a7bc7e9d9575aa7b749321a0ec3f/original/screen-shot-2022-06-16-at-9-42-33-pm.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><a contents="SCFB 304: Ben Markley Big Band with Ari Hoenig - "Ari's Funhouse" " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/scfb-304-ben-markley-big-band-with-ari-hoenig-aris/id1400504427?i=1000566185803">SCFB 304: Ben Markley Big Band with Ari Hoenig - "Ari's Funhouse" </a></p>
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<p> </p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/69457292022-04-11T09:40:30-06:002022-04-11T09:40:30-06:00Ari's Funhouse - KUVO Denver New Music Monday 4/11<p>Tune in today 4/11 at noon MST to KUVO for New Music Monday. </p>
<p><a contents="NEW MUSIC MONDAY" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.kuvo.org/new-music-monday-ben-markley-big-band-with-ari-hoenig-somi-josean-jacobo-trio/">NEW MUSIC MONDAY</a></p>
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<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/30c33736a0901d684d5da53e0b86c2863bfa5c2e/original/screen-shot-2022-04-11-at-9-38-08-am.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/69339772022-03-28T09:42:10-06:002022-03-28T09:42:10-06:00Ari's Funhouse - Promo Video<p><strong>Ari's Funhouse Promo Video</strong></p>
<p>Here's a teaser video the Ari's Funhouse release on 4/15/22</p>
<p>Buy your copy early on my site today: <a contents="https://benmarkleymusic.com/store" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://benmarkleymusic.com/store">https://benmarkleymusic.com/store</a></p>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/meYI_G3NLZY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/69279542022-03-21T16:14:35-06:002022-10-19T13:41:40-06:00Ari's Funhouse - Now Available only on benmarkleymusic.com!<p>The wait is over! Ari's Playhouse is now available exclusively available at this website!</p>
<p><strong>Ben Markley Big Band with Ari Hoenig</strong></p>
<p><span class="font_regular"><strong>Produced by: Jim White</strong></span></p>
<p>Get your copy today!</p>
<p>Mp3s - <a contents="https://benmarkleymusic.com/product/774261" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://benmarkleymusic.com/product/774261">https://benmarkleymusic.com/product/774261</a></p>
<p>CDs - <a contents="https://benmarkleymusic.com/product/774260" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://benmarkleymusic.com/product/774260">https://benmarkleymusic.com/product/774260</a></p>
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<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/5961c18f6b80d39abe124cf9b7347428b9c8d9b8/original/front-cover.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/69190692022-03-10T13:45:25-07:002022-03-10T13:45:25-07:00Ben Markley Big Band New Recording - Ari's Funhouse, out April 15<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Ari's Funhouse </strong></span></p>
<p>Release date: April 15, 2022 <br>Label: OA2</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/5961c18f6b80d39abe124cf9b7347428b9c8d9b8/original/front-cover.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p><strong>Ben Markley</strong> is a <strong>pianist, arranger, and leader of the Ben Markley Big Band</strong>, a daring ensemble known for their creative takes on beloved modern and contemporary jazz classics. Fresh off the heels of Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton, Markley tackles his most ambitious project yet: <strong>Ari’s Funhouse</strong>, a big band album featuring the <strong>music of drummer Ari Hoenig, </strong>with<strong> Hoenig himself in the drum chair</strong>. </p>
<p>This project’s inception began prior to the start of the arranging process. It began with an opportunity. In 2019, Markley and Hoenig found themselves <strong>slated to perform together at the Tarleton Jazz Festival</strong> in Tarleton, TX. As Markley began learning Hoenig’s music as preparation for this performance, he began to notice a <strong>depth of melodicism and harmonic genius</strong> that accompanied the evident <strong>rhythmic brilliance</strong> that is rightly associated with Hoenig’s music. A few months after their shared performance at that festival, Hoenig received a call from Markley asking if he could arrange some of his music, to which Hoenig happily agreed. </p>
<p><strong>The arrangement and collaboration processes on Ari’s Funhouse are closely intertwined.</strong> Markley immediately recognized the unique compositional voice that Hoenig possesses, and sought to <strong>keep Hoenig’s voice as the defining authorial style throughout the arrangements</strong>. In order to pull this off, however, Markley needed to become intimately familiar with Hoenig’s vocabulary, both as a composer and performer. To do this, Markley began <strong>transcribing Hoenig’s solos and played with the original recordings for months</strong>, until the vocabulary was internalized. While this alone would have set the arrangements up for success, Markley sought to make this music as authentic to Hoenig’s voice as possible, and so the <strong>two began a regular correspondence</strong>. “Talking with Ari regularly helped me use elements from his musical language in my arrangements,” Markley says. “Many of the conversations were like ‘Ari, I think I’m hearing this.’ He would either confirm or explain and notate what I was hearing.” This collaborative process evidently works, as Hoenig himself was thrilled with the authenticity that Markley created. “When I first heard what he was working on the first thing that hit me was the <strong>quality and attention to detail he gave in each of the arrangements</strong>,” Hoenig says. “He really took the rhythmic language I use and included it in the arrangements while at the same time bringing in his creative unique voice.” </p>
<p>The opening track on the album is Markley’s arrangement of “<strong>Birdless</strong>,” a concept that sets the tone for the album and a piece that showcases Markley’s arranging abilities far beyond the skills typically required for a big band arranger. Featuring solos from <strong>saxophonist Wil Swindler, guitarist Steve Kovalcheck</strong> as well as Markley and Hoening themselves, this track oscillates between normative and irregular phrase lengths and meters. Moreover, Hoenig’s solo is framed by ensemble interjections and horn solis, creating a dramatic and interactive soloistic dialogue. At the middle of the album’s track order stands “<strong>Bert’s Playground</strong>,” a piece that begins in a second line feel with a <strong>bass feature from Evan Gregor</strong> and evolves over time to become an intricate work of solos and contrapuntal craftsmanship. Using a writing device that Markley describes as “<strong>rhythmic hooks</strong>,” the chart is united by these thematic landmarks throughout, based on Hoenig’s vocabulary, which provide a frame through which he accompanies the band. Powerfully, this chart also features a constantly developing solo section over which Wil Swindler performs masterfully. Starting at a two-chord vamp, dropping to a duo texture of saxophone and piano, and then rising to a grandiose climax, this is described by Markley as “<strong>one of the best solos on the record</strong>.” </p>
<p>The second half of the album continues with Markley’s arrangement of “Arrows and Loops,” one of Hoening’s most famous compositions. Set in 11/8, this piece is a soloist’s tour de force that highlights the rhythm section’s ability to lock and take the music to a multiplicity of places. Lastly, the album closes with <strong>“Green Spleen,” a contrafact composed by Hoening to Thelonious Monk’s “Green Chimneys.</strong>” Described by Markley as a “raucous, electric-driven party,” and by Hoenig during rehearsals as “a drunken party.” Utilizing a blend of written parts, collectively improvised cacophonous elements, and tempo changes of the sort utilized by Hoenig in his small group performances, “Green Spleen” is one of the most <strong>well-suited closers</strong> for an album and ensemble of such an ambitious ilk. </p>
<p>A project as audacious as this certainly does not occur in isolation, and in addition to Markley and Hoenig, <strong>the lineup of musicians in the big band was stellar.</strong> On trumpets: Peter Olstad, Greg Gisbert, Dan Jonas, and Alan Hood. On trombones: Adam Bartczak, Paul McKee, Rob Borger, and Jon Gauer. On saxophones: Wil Swindler (a.s., sop., fl.), Scott Turpen (a.s.), Peter Sommer (t.s.), John Gunther (t.s.), and Sam Williams (bari). Beyond the headliners, the rhythm section includes guitarist Steve Kovalcheck and bassist Evan Gregor. The skill and dedication in this personnel is remarkable, and was <strong>lauded by Hoenig himself</strong>. “I had no idea what a happening scene Denver was for jazz,” Hoenig says. “There are so many bad cats there of all different generations. Ben really took advantage of this Denver scene while putting together this dream band.” </p>
<p>With Ari’s Funhouse, Ben Markley and Ari Hoenig show the sheer power and absolute musical joy that can blossom from <strong>a fruitful collaboration between great minds</strong>. Ari’s Funhouse is a testament not only to skillful performance and masterful writing, but to the creative spirit of musical giants trusting each other to learn and make something wondrous together.</p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/66495472021-06-04T09:25:45-06:002021-06-04T09:25:45-06:00Autumn Air - Ben Markley Big Band<p>Here is the second remote recording my band did as part of on an outreach project that was partially funded by the Wyoming Arts Council. </p>
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<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5g3IE6_zTCc" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>
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<p>Ben Markley Big Band</p>
<p>Autumn Air </p>
<p>Composed and arranged by Ben Markley </p>
<p>Saxophones: Wil Swindler - Alto Dougan Smith - Alto Peter Sommer - Tenor Scott Turpen - Tenor Sam Williams - Bari</p>
<p>Trombones: Melissa Gardiner Adam Bartczak Zach Rich Jon Gauer</p>
<p>Trumpets: Clint Ashlock John Lake Dan Jonas Gabe Mervine</p>
<p>Rhythm Section: Peter Schlamb - Vibes (Solo) Ben Markley - Piano Seth Lewis - Bass (Solo) Alejandro Castaño - Drums</p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/66438912021-05-29T21:22:33-06:002021-05-29T21:22:33-06:00Off Minor - Ben Markley Big Band<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fACBCKN0DEY" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>
<p>Ben Markley Big Band Off Minor - Thelonious Monk</p>
<p>Arranged by Cedar Walton</p>
<p>Adapted for Big Band by Ben Markley</p>
<p>Saxophones: Wil Swindler - Alto, Dougan Smith - Alto, Peter Sommer - Tenor (Solo), Scott Turpen - Tenor, Sam Williams - Bari</p>
<p>Trombones: Melissa Gardiner, Adam Bartczak, Zach Rich, Jon Gauer</p>
<p>Trumpets: Clint Ashlock, John Lake, Dan Jonas, Gabe Mervine</p>
<p>Rhythm Section: Peter Schlamb - Vibes, Ben Markley - Piano (Solo), Seth Lewis - Bass, Alejandro Castaño - Drums</p>
<p> </p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/62874252020-04-19T16:07:32-06:002020-04-19T19:36:37-06:00New Quarantine Big Band Video! <p>Life has been turned upside down for all of us. I found myself wanting to do something to help out all of my sisters and brothers in the arts. Today I am releasing a new big band video featuring folks from Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, Kansas, and New York to promote raising money for artists in need. I've selected two organizations that have funds set up to help artists. <a contents="www.artistrelief.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.artistrelief.org">www.artistrelief.org</a> and <a contents="https://wyomingarts.org/donate-to-the-individual-artist-covid-19-support-grant/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://wyomingarts.org/donate-to-the-individual-artist-covid-19-support-grant/">https://wyomingarts.org/donate-to-the-individual-artist-covid-19-support-grant/</a></p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="FKgIS1u32qY" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/FKgIS1u32qY/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FKgIS1u32qY?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe>Subscribe to my YouTube channel. <a contents="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOFv4tyfkFZ_PA5V4O5FUAQ?view_as=subscriber" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOFv4tyfkFZ_PA5V4O5FUAQ?view_as=subscriber">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOFv4tyfkFZ_PA5V4O5FUAQ?view_as=subscriber</a></p>
<p>In addition to promoting these sites I will also be donating 100% of my digital album sales to these organizations.</p>
<p>Art has always sustained and inspired through all times good and bad. Do not forget the folks who make it happen. They need our help! </p>
<p> </p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/58991972019-09-20T08:35:59-06:002022-03-21T09:16:32-06:00Slow Play featuring Joel Frahm available on iTunes and all major outlets. <p><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/784b26a5b7f235b76a46c6098898c20e57e23c8e/original/screen-shot-2019-09-20-at-8-33-27-am.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
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<p>Slow Play featuring Joel Frahm, Jim White, Marty Kenney and Andy Wheelock is here! Available on iTunes and all major outlets. Digital and hard copies are available on my website: https://www.benmarkleymusic.com/store and OA2 Records http://originarts.com/oa2/recordings/recording.php…</p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/58494352019-08-06T14:39:12-06:002022-02-11T14:45:53-07:00Slow Play - Ben Markley Quartet featuring Joel Frahm releases Sept. 20. <p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/36ep_Inn6_4" width="560"></iframe></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/57362482019-04-29T11:23:47-06:002019-04-29T11:23:47-06:00Front Range Drive at Nocturne - Fridays in May<p>I'm looking forward to playing with my new group, Front Range Drive this Friday, May 3rd and every Friday in May at Nocturne with Peter Sommer, Wil Swindler, Steve Kovalcheck, Seth Lewis, and Dru Heller . New music and brand new arrangements written for this group. Join us! 6:30pm-10:30pm Fridays in May. We'll also have some great subs including my old buddy from NYU Heath Walton as well as Ryan Leppich, Jack Roben, Dougan Smith, and Jack Harrington. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/d0a16e08f0ac1f7bb9fbbe3712ffafe79c603e0c/original/59285403-10156458326948121-6728605691306573824-o.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/56712972019-03-06T15:04:27-07:002019-03-06T15:04:27-07:00Ben Markley Quartet featuring Joel Frahm<p>Last week I had a blast recording with great musicians and friends Joel Frahm, Jim White, and Marty. We played some schools and small towns in Wyoming and finished up at Muse Performance Space In Lafayette. The band recorded on the final day at Mighty Fine Studios. I'm looking forward to releasing the results on OA2 records this summer. </p>
<p>Here's a clip of an original of mine <em>The Last time this happened </em>from our concert at the University of Wyoming on Monday, February 25. </p>
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<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="Tww7fuOUbcI" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/Tww7fuOUbcI/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Tww7fuOUbcI?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/52639332018-05-29T14:33:51-06:002021-05-29T21:18:12-06:00Feature on DownBeat website!<p><strong>5.29.18 - </strong>Thanks to the Robert Ham and folks at DownBeat for this feature. We talk about my new record Basic Economy. </p>
<p>Click here for the full article: <a contents="http://downbeat.com/news/detail/ben-markley-moves-into-the-spotlight-as-a-bandleader&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://downbeat.com/news/detail/ben-markley-moves-into-the-spotlight-as-a-bandleader" target="_self">http://downbeat.com/news/detail/ben-markley-moves-into-the-spotlight-as-a-bandleader </a><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/584544041c5c82d7542bd94e23e9b47c696107ef/original/screen-shot-2018-05-29-at-12-19-29-pm.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/51743622018-04-10T13:06:11-06:002020-04-25T20:45:42-06:00Basic Economy - Ben Markley Quartet featuring Greg Osby<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="-sPeMhg0EEY" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/-sPeMhg0EEY/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-sPeMhg0EEY?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/51269232018-03-14T15:20:40-06:002018-03-14T15:20:40-06:00Basic Economy featuring Greg Osby drops 5/18!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/02438284aa16a209af943da15928178392b68c5d/original/36e29dbb-2d13-4506-bb50-6053ff73b900.jpeg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Basic Economy - Ben Markley Quartet featuring Greg Osby, Evan Gregor, and Dru Heller arrives May 18 on OA2 records. </p>
<p>As the follow-up to his critically-acclaimed Big Band recording, 'Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton,' pianist Ben Markley presents this spirited and thoroughly modern quartet session of original compositions, featuring alto saxophone great Greg Osby. Inspired by their developing musical relationship over the last four years, Markley composed a set of music with Osby in mind, followed by a tour and this recording. With the crisp and fully engaged support of bassist Evan Gregor and drummer Dru Heller, the effect of Markley and Osby's fluid rapport creates an inspired argument for further exploration. ''Basic Economy' is a vivid presentation of the sound of today, with a healthy nod to the institutions of chance and imagination. ' - Greg Osby</p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/50565732018-02-01T16:14:53-07:002018-02-01T16:14:54-07:00Ben Markley Big Band with Joel Frahm<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/7e018b017df602cf951011bd0b3c834ebb9ba2df/original/1482b8a1-ef0d-41dd-b525-7f5fffc0033b.jpeg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/99e350799662f5a8765fbc07e83c8c2acafdb025/original/screen-shot-2018-01-17-at-3-35-05-pm.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Just putting the finishing touches on an arrangement of Joel's original What's Your Beat? </p>
<p>New Music with a great band! </p>
<p>Check us Out! </p>
<p>2/3 Dazzle Ben Markley Big Band featuring Joel Frahm. <br>Dazzle Jazz Club. Denver, CO. Sets at 6pm and 8:30pm <br>RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED <br>Tickets: https://dazzledenver.com/ </p>
<p>2/4 Joel Frahm with the UW Faculty Jazz Trio. <br>University of Wyoming 7:30pm BCPA Recital Hall. <br>Free Admission <br>w/ Gonzalo Teppa and Ed Breazeale. </p>
<p>2/6 Kinser Jazz Festival Ben Markley Big Band featuring Joel Frahm. <br>Casper, WY. <br>Tickets: http://www.caspercollegejazz.com/ </p>
<p>Ben Markley Big Band </p>
<p>Wil Swindler <br>Scott Turpen <br>Peter Sommer <br>Samuel G Williams </p>
<p>Greg Gisbert <br>Gabriel Mervine 2/3 <br>Dan Jonas 2/6 <br>John Lake <br>Alan Hood </p>
<p>Michael Conrad 2/3 <br>Scott Crump 2/6 <br>Paul McKee <br>Adam Bartczak <br>Gary Mayne </p>
<p>Steve Kovalcheck <br>Ben Markley <br>Ken Walker <br>Jim White</p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/50287092018-01-17T15:07:30-07:002018-01-17T15:07:30-07:00Ben Markley Big Band Featuring Joel Frahm<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Join the Ben Markley Big Band featuring Joel Frahm</strong></span></p>
<p><b>Saturday, February 3rd at Dazzle. Denver, CO. Tickets: <a contents="https://dazzledenver.com/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://dazzledenver.com/">https://dazzledenver.com/</a></b></p>
<p><b>Tuesday, February 6th Kinser Jazz Festival. Casper, WY. Tickets: <a contents="http://www.caspercollegejazz.com/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.caspercollegejazz.com/">http://www.caspercollegejazz.com/</a></b></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/22458e25048b4bdffa79bc8a81a9d49fee4a865c/original/26910160-10155387665288121-8110273712004620313-o.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/99e350799662f5a8765fbc07e83c8c2acafdb025/original/screen-shot-2018-01-17-at-3-35-05-pm.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/50196482018-01-11T20:34:33-07:002022-03-10T13:45:49-07:00Ben Markley Music 2018 Gigs and News <p>2018 is off to a great start!</p>
<p>On Saturday, January 6th the Ben Markley Big Band performed on the evening concert of the Jazz Education Network conference. The band was joined by guests Terell Stafford and Jeff Hamilton and played selections from their recording <i>Clockwise:</i>The Music of Cedar Walton. This recording had a wonderful year. It received much acclaim and most recently was voted one of the best 4 star albums of 2017 by DownBeat magazine.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/a6eed2a1f8439694dc1c70d3ef9f08bf2a7f9313/original/3fafb7d3-78e3-4382-9523-8f1427e3c74b.jpeg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Upcoming Performance Dates:</p>
<p>* Saturdays at Ace Gillett’s - Ben Markley Trio with Seth Lewis and John Olson</p>
<p>2/3 - Dazzle Jazz - Ben Markley Big Band w/ Joel Frahm</p>
<p>2/4 - University of Wyoming Faculty Jazz Trio w/ Joel Frahm</p>
<p>2/6 - Kinser Jazz Festival (Casper College) - Ben Markley Big Band w/ Joel Frahm</p>
<p>2/28 - Nocturne - Peter Sommer Septet</p>
<p>4/4 - Nocturne - Pete Zimmer Quartet</p>
<p>4/26 - Sheridan College</p>
<p>9/17 - Dizzy's Club Coca Cola - Ben Markley Big Band featuring Terell Stafford</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/48066812017-08-08T09:29:18-06:002017-08-08T09:29:18-06:00Live Recording at Nocturne Wednesday, August 9th<p><br>Join Matt Smiley, Brian Claxton, and myself this Wednesday, August 9 at Nocturne for the last night of our residency. We've had a blast the past six weeks and sound like a band. We'll be doing a live recording, so come check us out and be part of one of the first recordings to come from Nocturne.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a contents="nocturnejazz.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://Www.nocturnejazz.com">nocturnejazz.com</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/365d367b9663b0601762323ca578a0ccc3983df7/original/044b3ef4-a1e7-4470-a3d9-b349dd7ff5d5-1344-000001df059ccd2a.jpeg?1502205946" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/1967a0d7b34eede7d8ee8c7f11195a09ec5cdad5/original/03cb4e8c-293e-4efe-badd-c8b62d6cb106-1344-000001df768d14df.jpeg?1502205945" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/033a6963da5907c0f9e51f67cbdb4a039ec2ab4f/original/3cae480f-9ce7-4250-a7d8-744e17e702c0-1344-000001dfe31fbd5a.jpeg?1502205947" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/47204702017-05-24T09:03:56-06:002017-05-24T20:54:20-06:004 Star review from DownBeat Magazine!<p>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton received a 4 star review the July edition of DownBeat Magazine.</p>
<p><a contents="www.downbeat.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.downbeat.com">www.downbeat.com</a></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/e61dde8753ace7dc6344d06ccd5f776d384422d6/original/18447240-10154748678653121-4333798601234732377-n.jpg?1495638094" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/89772b26bcef59908904feb221b689002e5d4cf6/original/18622222-10154748678648121-8213541600039248180-n.jpg?1495638096" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/46328452017-03-16T13:47:58-06:002022-03-10T13:46:13-07:00Clockwise the Music of Cedar Walton - Jazz Week Radio Charts and New Review<strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> has been in the top 50 for radio play for the last 3 weeks. This week(week of March 20) it climbed 16 spots to #23. <a contents="http://www.jazzweek.com/charts/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.jazzweek.com/charts/">http://www.jazzweek.com/charts/</a><br><br>The album was also reviewed by the Brazilian website Na Mira do Groove. <a contents="http://namiradogroove.com.br/blog/jazz/10-discos-jazz-fevereiro-2017" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://namiradogroove.com.br/blog/jazz/10-discos-jazz-fevereiro-2017">http://namiradogroove.com.br/blog/jazz/10-discos-jazz-fevereiro-2017</a><br><br>The Ben Markley Big Band featuring Terell Stafford will perform at the UW Jazz Festival on Friday, March 24 and Dazzle Jazz on Saturday, March 25 (sets at 7pm and 9pm).<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/8d265121da5f127d9282f61730216b7a76195c2d/original/screen-shot-2017-03-16-at-1-26-01-pm.png?1489693069" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/46268212017-03-12T11:02:12-06:002017-03-12T11:02:12-06:004 1/2 Star review from Jack Bowers - All About Jazz <strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton received a <u>4 1/2 star review</u> from ALL ABOUT JAZZ!</strong><p>"One of the year's more captivating and persuasive big-band albums." Jack Bowers - All About Jazz<br><br>Read the whole review:<br><br><a contents="https://www.allaboutjazz.com/clockwise-the-music-of-cedar-walton-ben-markley-oa2-records-review-by-jack-bowers.php" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.allaboutjazz.com/clockwise-the-music-of-cedar-walton-ben-markley-oa2-records-review-by-jack-bowers.php">https://www.allaboutjazz.com/clockwise-the-music-of-cedar-walton-ben-markley-oa2-records-review-by-jack-bowers.php</a><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/effda22403fa1b57844f2771672d4fbb2803f0da/original/screen-shot-2017-03-11-at-3-27-43-pm.png?1489337986" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/46231352017-03-09T08:08:14-07:002022-04-11T09:34:14-06:00Jazz Now! with Ed Smith - Radio InterviewI'll be on Jazz Now! with Ed Smith at 11am EST this morning (3/9/17).<br><br>Tune in if you're in the Maryland/DC area to WOWD LP 94.3 or stream it live <a contents="takomaradio.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://takomaradio.org" target="_blank">takomaradio.org<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/3ad39d97f91938e490d2d7c488d1d7394c821329/original/jazz-now-flyer-v2-9-24-rev.jpg?1489072044" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/46134732017-03-02T09:35:08-07:002017-08-04T00:34:58-06:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Radio Interview and Feature!<strong>CLOCKWISE: THE MUSIC OF CEDAR WALTON - RADIO INTERVIEWS</strong><br><br><strong>WPKN - Connecticut </strong><br><br>On Monday, I did an interview with WPKN radio host Rick Petrone.<br><br>The interview starts one hour in (at the 2pm marker). Check it out!<br><br><a contents="http://archives.wpkn.org/bookmarks/listen/175992/the-jazz-sound-with-rick-petrone" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://archives.wpkn.org/bookmarks/listen/175992/the-jazz-sound-with-rick-petrone">http://archives.wpkn.org/bookmarks/listen/175992/the-jazz-sound-with-rick-petrone</a><br><br><br><br><strong>ABC JAZZ - Australia </strong><br><br>Mal Stanley with ABC Jazz did a feature on the record. - Listen here! <a contents="ab.co/2mbNUqG" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://ab.co/2mbNUqG">ab.co/2mbNUqG<br><br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45943682017-02-17T08:10:29-07:002017-02-17T08:10:29-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 1 RELEASE DAY, Trumpet Section: Terell Stafford<strong>RELEASE DAY! CLOCKWISE: THE MUSIC OF CEDAR WALTON</strong> NOW AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE!<br><br><strong>Terell Stafford</strong> has been hailed as “one of the great players of our time, a fabulous trumpet player” by piano legend McCoy Tyner. Stafford is recognized as an incredibly gifted and versatile player, he combines a deep love of melody with his own brand of spirited and adventurous lyricism. Stafford’s exceptionally expressive and well defined musical talent allows him to dance in and around the rich trumpet tradition of his predecessors while making his own inroads.<br><br>Terell is one of the busiest people in the business. He leads his own quintet and works regularly with the: Clayton Brothers, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Bobby Watson and Horizon, Dizzy Gillespie All Stars, Arts & Crafts,Tim Warfield Group, Dana Hall Group, Jon Faddis Jazz Orchestra, Trumpet Summit featuring Jon Faddis and Sean Jones, and Jimmy Heath Big Band. He is the Director of Jazz Studies, Chair of Instrumental Studies at Temple University and is the Artistic Director of the Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia. <br><br>I first worked Terell<strong> </strong>three years ago working in Josh Quinlan's band. We played a series of gigs in Wyoming and Colorado. The next year we did some more gigs and also did a live recording. Things have continued from there. The day after we played our first gig together, I drove him from Laramie to Denver. It was during that car ride that I asked him about all the world class pianists he had played with. McCoy, Mulgrew, Cedar etc. It was a conversation I will never forget. He was so willing to talk about his experiences with each of them. Although we had only played once together, I knew I needed play and hang with him as much as I could. Mentorship is not the same as it used to be in jazz. Terell is someone who still does it (with me and many others).<br><br>When I started to assemble the personnel together for this project, I wanted to feature a guest artist who had ties to Cedar. Terell has worked with Cedar Walton in different groups including the Trumpet Summit Band. When I called Terell to do this recording I asked him if he would like to to solo on a few tracks. He asked about the dates and told me he was good for the whole thing AND he would play in the section too! For me, that set the vibe of the whole session. Terell was just one of the guys when we did the rehearsal, gig, and session. A genuinely good human being and world class musician.<br><br>Terell solos on <em>Cedar's Blues, Hindsight, Black, and Holy Land </em>on Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton and they are all out of sight! It was an honor and joy to have him part of this project.<br><br>This project was two years in the making there are so many people who helped it succeed. Thank you: Abby Markley Wyoming Arts Council, Wyoming Cultural Trust Fund, Wil Swindler, Terell Stafford, Colin Bricker, Theresa Bogard, Trish Schumacher, Michael Peterson, Martha Sammaciccia, Adam MacBlane, St. Louis Music, P. Mauriat, John Bishop, and the band!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/541b6e344be8530a150693550eef41fbf07434a2/original/ts-gallery-images-0129.jpg?1487310048" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45926762017-02-16T06:20:15-07:002017-02-16T06:20:15-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 2, Trumpet Section: John Lake<b>John Lake</b> was a finalist for the 2011 Carmine Caruso Competition. He holds degrees from University of Cincinnati’s College Conservatory of Music and the University of Colorado. He works frequently as both a jazz and lead player. Since moving to New York, he has worked with groups like the David Berger Jazz Orchestra, The Stan Rubin Orchestra, and Charlie Rosen’s Broadway Big Band. In the world of musical theater, he has recently backed such luminaries as Jon Lithgow, Marin Mazzie, Kristin Chenoweth, and David Hyde Pierce.<br> <br>John is an outstanding composer and arranger. He leads the John Lake Ensemble which is a modern hard-bop septet that features his arrangements of standards as well as his compositions. His compositions and arrangements have been featured by the ensembles of New York University, Ithaca College, and The University of Colorado at Boulder. John also leads an experimental jazz-rock collective called Shirley. This group has recorded two albums - <em>From a Bright Clearing</em> and <em>Different-Sized Cages.</em><br><br>I met John while we were attending school at the University of Colorado. We quickly became friends and started hanging and playing a lot. I love talking music with John. He is a very thoughtful person who enjoys as a very eclectic perspective on music and life. While I was sad to see him leave Colorado, I was happy he was moving to NYC. He is a fantastic trumpet player and has quickly established himself in many circles in NYC (not an easy task!). John plays one of my favorite solos on the album on the tune <em>Clockwise</em>. Check him out!<br> <p><a contents="https://johnlakejazz.com/home" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://johnlakejazz.com/home">https://johnlakejazz.com/home</a><br><br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> available everywhere February 17.<br><br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/d5acb562290584422aa325ea0f0471515285ff21/original/johnlake2012-01-lowres.jpg?1487221024" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45908692017-02-15T06:34:34-07:002017-02-15T06:34:34-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 3, Trumpet Section: Greg Gisbert<b>Greg Gisbert</b> is yet another world class musician in the trumpet section for <em>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</em>. His resume reads like a dream. Greg attended Berklee College of Music for a year before being offered a spot in Buddy Rich's band. After playing with Rich from 1985-1986, we went on to work with Woody Herman's Big band under Frank Tiberi's direction (1987 - 1989), John Fedchock and Maria Schneider, Gary Burton (1989), Lew Anderson (1989) and Toshiko Akiyoshi (1989 and subsequently). In the 1990's, he played with Mingus Epitaph (1990 - 1992), Frank Wess, Clark Terry, Mickey Tucker and Buck Clayton (1991), Danny D'Imperio (1991) Norman Simmons (1992), John Hicks (1992). More recent recordings and performances include Roy Hargrove, Maria Schneider, and Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis. Greg has three albums as a leader on the Criss Cross label. <br><br>Greg is someone who is equally adept as a lead player and improviser. His impressive discography a reflects this. It was a stroke of good luck for me (and all musicians) to have Greg living in Denver when I moved to town. I tried to hear him as much as I could. I have a lot of fond memories of watching him play at Herbs with Pat Bianchi. Greg is also a great mentor. He hired me to play a weekly session that he hosted at El Chapultepec Too. I learned so much playing with him. He was patient, instructive, and always willing to play and to teach. Greg was also kind enough to play on one my small group recordings <em>Second Introduction</em> OA2 Records. On <i>Clockwise</i>, Greg plays two stunning solos on <em>Fiesta Español</em> and <em>Black</em> (which has some incredible trading with Terell Stafford). <br> <p><a contents="http://www.trumpetplayersdirectory.com/greggisberttrumpet.html" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.trumpetplayersdirectory.com/greggisberttrumpet.html">http://www.trumpetplayersdirectory.com/greggisberttrumpet.html</a><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/24a0ba9b83e45f549b3c8f981a8fe952268212cd/original/greggisbertflugelhorn.png?1487133198" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45896152017-02-14T08:32:39-07:002017-02-14T08:34:02-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 4, Trumpet Section: Peter Olstad<p>When I take a moment to think about the careers of the members in the trumpet section for this recording, I'm floored. It all starts with world-class lead trumpet player <strong>Peter Olstad</strong>. Peter went to school at Berklee and finished up at the University of Northern Colorado. In 1981 he joined Buddy Rich's band and spent most of the decade touring with Buddy Morrow and the Tommy Dorsey band, Glenn Miller for a brief tour of Japan, and the Russ Morgan Band under the direction of Jack Morgan. In the late 80s he was part of the trumpet section that toured for Maynard Ferguson's 60th birthday. The other section members included Wayne Bergeron and Roger Ingram (WOW!). From there Maynard asked Peter to join his Big-Bop Noveau band - a gig that lasted two and half years. Peter has also worked for extended periods with Tom Jones and Latin pop star Luis Miguel. </p>
<p>I first got to play with Peter at Ace Gillett's in Fort Collins. While the playing was great, I vividly remember talking with him on the breaks. He was incredibly humble and open to talking about his life in music. Each year there are fewer musicians who actually make their living solely from playing. Peter has been doing it his whole life (a testament to his excellent playing!). Shortly after we played at Ace, Peter called me for a gig. I learned about this great sense of humor on this gig. After the first set, he came up to the band and in complete deadpan says "Uh, hey guys, I've been getting some complaints about your playing." - and then walked away! He let things sit for a few minutes, and finally I caught a glimpse of a smirk. We all had a healthy laugh. It's an honor to play with Pete and I am very grateful he played on the record. While writing these charts, it was very comforting knowing a world-class lead player would be playing. Some highlights of his playing on the record are Cedar's Blues, Fiesta Español and Bolivia. </p>
<p><a contents="http://www.trumpetplayersdirectory.com/trumpetplayerpeterolstad.html&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.trumpetplayersdirectory.com/trumpetplayerpeterolstad.html">http://www.trumpetplayersdirectory.com/trumpetplayerpeterolstad.html </a></p>
<p><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> available everywhere Friday, February 17.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/395d132be30a378997b39847444dbdc78fdbe0b7/original/02-peter-olstad-klein-9fcebb856f9e2c5b5b9646dbe367d320-681x1024.jpg?1487086233" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45873952017-02-13T08:24:08-07:002017-02-13T08:24:08-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 5, Trombone Section: Gary MayneBass trombone is one of the special instruments in a big band that can significantly enhance the overall sound of the ensemble. Furthermore, great bass trombonists are hard find. <strong>Gary Mayne </strong>is one of the great ones. He has not lived in Colorado for years and is STILL the first call bass trombonist when all of the top front range groups record! As a big band performer he has performed and recorded regularly with groups such as the 9th and Lincoln Orchestra, the Steve Owen Big Band, The Fred Hess Big Band, The Steve Lippia Big Band, the Dan Gailey Jazz Orchestra, the Colorado Jazz Orchestra, the H2 Big Band, the Fred Hess Big Band, the Glenn Miller Orchestra, and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra.<br><br>Gary works in a variety of situations. As a symphonic musician, Gary has performed with the Colorado Symphony, the Colorado Music Festival Orchestra, the Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, the Wyoming Symphony and the Colorado Springs Philharmonic. As a commercial musician Gary has recorded as a sideman and in horn sections for over 20+ albums. <br><br>I first met Gary in 2010. He was the Assistant Director Bands at Fossil Ridge High School. His band blew me away! I came away from the performance saying "who is this guy?" Shortly after I was talking with one of my friends, and he said "yeah, you should hear him play bass trombone!" <br><br>When I was putting the band together for my project I took a shot and asked Gary and I'm so glad he was able to do it! Check out the first solo sendoff on <i>Clockwise </i>as well as the low bombs he drops on <em>Bolivia</em>. He absolutely killed the entire recording!<br> <p><a contents="https://sites.google.com/site/garymaynetrombone/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://sites.google.com/site/garymaynetrombone/">https://sites.google.com/site/garymaynetrombone/</a><br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> available everywhere February 17.</p><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/3811555f87569763694db65cc8a6cd7280822db6/original/4252079058-a714da407c-z.jpg?1486955612" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45872052017-02-12T16:16:39-07:002017-02-12T16:16:39-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 6, Trombone Section: Adam Bartczak<strong>Adam Bartczak</strong> is a trombonist, composer and arranger. He has been rooted in Denver for several years. His compositions have been performed by the West Point Academy’s Jazz Knights, the University of North Texas One O’clock Lab Band, Denver’s 9th and Lincoln Jazz Orchestra. Performances of his arrangements for jazz orchestra have featured artists such as Donny McCaslin, Jeff Coffin, Robin Eubanks, Brian Lynch, Billy Pierce, and Geoffrey Keezer.
<p>He leads his own big band (Adam Bartczak Rebublic). I was lucky enough to play on this band's debut recording <i>Grass is Greener </i> in 2013. This record features some very creative writing along with excellent playing.<br><br>Adam plays frequently around the Denver-Metro area in a variety of bands. He also leads his own small group <em>The Democracy</em> which features top flight Denver musicians including Don Byron. <br><br>It was a real pleasure having Adam on my session and I look forward to working with him more in the future. Check him out!<br><br><a contents="http://www.suchwise.com/bartczak/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.suchwise.com/bartczak/">http://www.suchwise.com/bartczak/</a><br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> available everywhere February 17.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/cc9afadcdd8f44ed0297281d86e2da43a00dbdca/original/adam-bartczak.jpg?1486940903" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45862972017-02-11T14:18:08-07:002017-02-11T14:18:08-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 7, Trombone Section: Paul McKeeTrombonist <strong>Paul McKee</strong> has been well known among jazz musicians for many years. He joined Woody Herman's band in 1984 and has played on many Grammy-nominated recordings with the band. Paul has taught at several universities including DePaul, Youngstown State, Northern Illinois, the University of Missouri at Kansas City and Florida State. While going to school in Kansas, my friend Clint Ashlock hipped me to Paul when he was studying at UMKC. I remember Clint saying "man, you gotta hear this guy play the trombone.... and the arrangements!" Upon doing my homework I found out just how great Paul was... and then some! Paul's debut recording as a leader <em>Gallery </em>features performances by Carl Fontana, Bobby Shew, Tim Ries and Ron Stout. He also has many published arrangements. Two of my favorites are <em>The Messenger</em> and <em>Beautiful Love</em>.<br><br>When I moved to Colorado I got to hear Paul regularly at the UNC Jazz Festival. When he took the job at the University of Colorado I was excited he would be here permanently and really hoped we would work together. One of the first gigs I got to play with him was with another Iowa native Dick Oatts.... a memorable evening to say the least! It's always a joy to make music with Paul. He brings it no matter the situation. On <em>Clockwise </em>Paul plays two burning solos on <em>Bolivia </em>and Fiesta Español. Outstanding playing!<br><br>On another note, I have added some wonderful recordings to my collection just by following Paul on Facebook. I regularly check in on his posts to get new listening recommendations.<br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton </strong>available everywhere February 17. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/b9d626c193385b29a6976588de626214a310729d/original/mckee.jpg?1486847618" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45857032017-02-10T19:49:34-07:002017-02-10T19:49:34-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 8, Trombone Section: Scott Crump8 days left until <em>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton </em>is available everywhere. <br><br><strong>Scott Crump </strong>is one of the finest trombone players on the front range. He has been a member of many bands in the Air Force that include: USAF Band of Mid-America, USAF Europe Band, and USAF Academy where he played in both the concert band and Falconaires. Scott has performed with a variety of artists including Faith Hill, Vince Gill, Crystal Gayle, Ricochet, Chris Potter, Ernie Watts, Dave Stahl, Roger Pemberton, Bobby Shew, The New York Voices and Carl Fontana. His decorations include the Air Force Commendation medal with three devices and the Air Force Acheivement medal with six devices.<br><br>While my session was the first time I have ever played with Scott (more to come!), I got to know him shortly after I moved to Colorado (meeting him through other members of the Falconaires). Scott can frequently be found playing in big bands all along the front range. For those of you who purchase charts published by Kendor, Scott often plays those recording sessions. He was an easy choice for my band. He gets around the horn quite well (check out the melody on ˆCedar's Blues") has solid intonation and is a great lead player. <p><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> available everywhere February 17.</p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/330b6d7fc7bcfe1a004ef97dc184fdbf87b3e674/original/304353-10152092549250710-686970301-n.jpg?1486781304" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45831232017-02-09T11:39:10-07:002017-02-09T11:39:10-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 9, Saxophone Section: Sam WilliamsSaxophonist <strong>Sam Williams</strong> has been on the Denver scene since 2013. He is well versed in both jazz and classical music. Sam has quickly been recognized as an outstanding bari player as evident by the great big bands that employ him. They include H2 Big Band and the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra. Sam is also a member of several small groups including Adam Bartczak's Democracy Quintet. In addition to his work as a sideman, Sam also leads his own group which features renowned pianist Art Lande. This group just released their first album titled <em>Turn the Moon</em>. <br><br>Sam is also an accomplished classical player. In 2013 and 2014, Sam was awarded the Saxophone Fellowship at the Aspen Music Festival, where he appeared with various orchestras and chamber ensembles, presented a solo recital, and performed several U.S. and world premieres. He the baritone saxophonist in the Hemispheres Saxophone Quartet, a chamber ensemble well-versed in both jazz and classical repertoire. In 2015, Hemispheres traveled throughout China as cultural ambassadors of the U.S. State Department, with performances and masterclasses in Beijing, Tianjin, and Wuhan.<p>Sam did a great job on my recording. He and Gary Mayne held the bottom down! Check out the bari lines on <i>Hindsight </i>and <em>Fiesta Español</em>. Slammin!<br><br><a contents="https://www.samuelwilliamsmusic.com/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.samuelwilliamsmusic.com/">https://www.samuelwilliamsmusic.com/</a><br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> available everywhere February 17.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/cc4f8a0e68aac6648b93e4e13c92f12a6249cc9c/original/sam-couch.jpg?1486665179" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45815362017-02-08T10:20:51-07:002017-02-08T10:22:53-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 10, Saxophone Section: Serafin Sanchez10 days left until <strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton </strong>is available. If you would like to purchase a copy now, please visit the "Store" tab on this site.<br><br><strong>Serafin Sanchez</strong> is a multi instrumentalist who has involved himself in a number of projects that vary from Jazz, Pop, Electronic, Funk, and beyond. As a writer and composer, his music has been used by MTV, Ford Motor Company, Oxygen, and Altitude Television Network. His performance credits include Natalie, Devotchka, The Colorado Symphony Orchestra, Big Gigantic, Issac Slade and Joe King from The Fray, Flobots, The Glenn Miller Orchestra and the USAF Falconaires. In 2014 Serafin became an Abelton certified trainer. <br><br>Serafin and I attended the University of Colorado in 2007. I got to work with him in the usual settings like combo and big band. We also had got to play a tour in Peru playing some funky music with our fellow CU classmates. Serafin is a very unique player who can sound like no one else when he solos. The next moment he flips a switch and can blend within a horn section. When he agreed to do my project, I had the perfect tune in mind to feature him. Check out his solo on <em>I'm Not So Sure</em>. <em>So funky</em>! You also get to hear that one of kind sound I was talking about. <br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> - Available everywhere February 17th. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/f24755b2a5079641ba35e320f89af13be6ca6a7c/original/serafin-sanchez.jpg?1486574177" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45799312017-02-07T08:11:40-07:002017-02-07T09:03:34-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 11, Saxophone Section: Peter SommerPeter Sommer has been one of the best on the Denver scene for many years. He is a member of the Ken Walker Sextet as well as Wil Swindler's Elevenet. He and pianist Art Lande have performed all over the country for many years. Peter is easily able to work in a number of contexts within jazz. Straight ahead, Post-bop, Free? Yes, and then some!<br><br>Peter has been on a number of recordings. As a leader he has four outstanding releases: <em>Sioux County</em> (2006) on Tapestry Records, featuring his original compositions in duo with jazz piano legend Art Lande, <em>Crossroads</em> (2008) on Capri Records, featuring a two-tenor frontline with the great NYC saxophonist Rich Perry, and <em>Tremolo Canteen</em> (2010) and <em>Narrando Historias</em> (2015) on Dazzle Recordings.<br><br>Peter serves as Associate Professor of Jazz Studies and Saxophone and at Colorado State University. I had the opportunity to work with him there from 2010-2013. Between playing occasionally at CSU and Ace Gillett's in Fort Collins (where Peter is a frequent soloist), I started to really HEAR him. It is always such a pleasure to play with Peter because no matter the situation he serves the music first. Zero ego! Off the bandstand he is a blast too... an extremely well-read individual. <br><br>On <em>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton, </em>check out Peter's solos on Hindsight, <em>Holy Land</em> (including some blowing with Terell Stafford) and <em>Black.</em><br><br><b>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</b> available everywhere February 17.<br><br><a contents="www.petersommerjazz.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://%E2%80%8Bwww.petersommerjazz.com">www.petersommerjazz.com<br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/bdee11a18a2ac046a359e934354fa235da80b214/original/peter-sommer-061rweb.jpeg?1486480196" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></a>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45780042017-02-06T07:03:37-07:002017-02-07T23:34:08-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 12, Saxophone Section: Scott Turpen<p>Scott Turpen is an excellent saxophonist who is equally versed in classical and jazz music. I started working with Scott about 8 years ago at the University of Wyoming. For the last 15 years he has served as Director of Jazz Studies and Woodwind Area Coordinator. In August he will assume the role of department chair. Scott has two critically acclaimed classical recordings <em>Tableaux</em> and <em>Crossover </em>(which features the Phil Woods Sonata). He also works regularly with the Verismo Trio. Scott is also an accomplished jazz musician. He has worked with the likes of Louis Bellson, Doc Severinsen, Red Rodney, Ernie Watts, and Bob Mintzer.<br><br>I had the privilege of writing the music for Scott's debut jazz album <em>Dance of the West</em> (Dazzle Recordings). I had a blast writing for this project because Scott is is such an excellent technician. He'll play whatever you put in front of him. His warm sound and excellent intonation don't hurt either! Almost of all of the cuts on Dance of the West are first takes. Knowing all of this, Scott was an easy choice for my big band. <br><br><br><a contents="www.scottturpen.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://scottturpen.com/">www.scottturpen.com</a><br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton </strong>available everywhere February 17th.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/4edb9fe336c42fb9d30c44b098591e500a5011bd/original/15027880-10154545464070943-6848380596399442166-n.jpg?1486360109" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45772952017-02-05T10:16:02-07:002017-02-05T10:51:25-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 13, Saxophone Section: Wil Swindler This project has been a success at every stage due in large part to <b>Wil Swindler. </b>Wil is a tremendous saxophone player, composer, and arranger. And equally great at all of them! Wil teaches at Colorado State University where he is Associate Director of Jazz Studies. True to form, Wil is one of the best at teaching the deep and varied skill set he has. He is a 2008 Gil Evans Fellowship winner and has written for bands all along the front range as well the USAF Falconaires and the West Point Jazz Knights.<br><br>As a saxophonist he has worked with Steve Wilson, John Fedchock, and Toshiko Akiyoshi. In the summers you will frequently find him working shows at Denver's Buell Theatre. Wil leads his Elevenet, one of the finest groups on the front range. Their latest recording is <em>Universe B</em> OA2 records. Wil also leads a hard bop quintet Goodrattle where he plays both alto and bari. Wil is a dedicated student of the music. Gil Evans, Sonny Stitt, Cannonball Adderley, Pepper Adams, are just some of the influences you'll hear in Wil's playing and writing. <br><br>Wil did a wonderful job producing and playing on <em>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</em>. To this day, I am amazed that he could play the session AND critically listen to the band. He plays two excellent solos on <em>Cedar's Blues </em>(check out the solo break!) and <em>Martha's Prize. </em>
<p><a contents="http://www.wilswindler.com/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.wilswindler.com/">http://www.wilswindler.com/</a><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/08b07bf8488c6dfe1416ec6113da3e249867809a/original/will-at-nocturne.jpg?1486314765" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45765302017-02-04T14:48:15-07:002017-02-05T10:23:17-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 14: Chris Smith14 days until <strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> is available everywhere! <u><strong>You can still purchase mp3s and CD now by clicking on the store tab</strong></u>. <br><br><b>Day 14 - Chris Smith</b> - Chris and I were living in Colorado and working on our doctorates (at University of Northern Colorado and University of Colorado respectively) around the same time (2007-2011). We didn't start playing together regularly until we were almost finished with school. From the start, it was apparent that Chris had a very deep bag and we shared many of the same ideas regarding accompaniment and swingin'. Chris is at home playing in a variety of settings and genres. He can kick a big band, play free music, swing his as off, and he always serves the music! Chris has chops, but he also knows how to make the people he is playing with sound good. While he plays great on the entire <em>Clockwise</em> record, some of my favorite moments are his playing with Wil Swindler on <em>Cedar's Blues</em> and with Terell Stafford on <em>Hindsight. </em>Chris is also one of the founding members of Raincheck with Steve Kovalcheck, Marty Kenney, and myself.<br><br>Since moving from Colorado back to New York, Chris has played with many renowned musicians including Dick Oatts, Joe Magnarelli, and Anthony Wonsey. He can also be found subbing in the Vanguard Orchestra. Chris has also penned the definitive biography on jazz drummer Mel Lewis - an outstanding book!<br> <p><a contents="http://www.chrissmithjazzdrums.com/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.chrissmithjazzdrums.com/">http://www.chrissmithjazzdrums.com/</a></p><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/4a4aeef0ff500c5b75b8a777b7f717c09f46e770/original/3r6a7726-2.jpg?1486244518" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45746512017-02-03T07:58:48-07:002017-02-04T09:43:31-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton Release Countdown Day 15: Ken WalkerWhen I moved to Denver in the summer of 2007, Ken Walker was quickly identified as "THE GUY" on bass. He has such a big beat! It's no wonder why he gets many calls from national acts that pass through Denver. He has played with Eddie Harris, Kenny Barron, Eric Alexander, Houston Person, Pharaoh Sanders, Jimmy Heath, Tom Harrell, Freddie Hubbard, Clifford Jordan, James Moody, Barry Harris, Billy Hart, and Benny Golson to name a few! Ken was the house bassist at the legendary El Chapultepec jazz club (still up and running right across from Rockies Stadium). As legend has it, after playing with Ken, the great Benny Golson booked him for a week at the Iridium in NYC then and asked him to play in his band. <br><br>Ken is the leader of the Ken Walker sextet which has been a fixture on the Denver scene for years. This group's first recording is titled <i>Terra Firma. </i>Ken is equally adept as a soloist and in a support role. When writing for this project I heard Ken's solid beat and dancing groove. I know Cedar would have loved to play with Ken!<br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Available Everywhere February 17.</strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/68c8f8e662e86174a740e6da6a99d378f3dd5f6a/original/1797614-10152092470863230-8431584783193885042-n-1.jpg?1486099783" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45735462017-02-02T09:02:23-07:002017-02-05T10:23:49-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Release Countdown Day 16: Steve Kovalcheck<strong>Steve Kovalcheck </strong><br><br>Steve is one of the most complete musicians I have ever met. His deep knowledge of the guitar and tradition is apparent every time he plays. Steve has worked with a variety musicians including the New York Voices, Colorado and Dallas Symphonies. He was a recording and touring member of Columbia artist Robinella and the C.C. String Band. As a jazz musician, he has worked with the best in the business including, Christian McBride, Terell Stafford, Tim Warfield and countless others. Steve is member of the University of Northern Colorado jazz faculty. He is also an accomplished composer and arranger<br><br>I started working with Steve regularly playing duo at Del Frisco's steak house. It was during this time that I realized, just how bad of a dude Steve really was. When you play duo with someone for four hours, everything comes out. From there Steve and I started the group Raincheck. We held a Sunday residency at Ace Gillet's for a little over a year. This band recorded an album <em>Raincheck </em>on Dazzle Recordings. At gigs I often joke with the audience and say something like "Playing with Steve always makes me feel bad". His playing is so consistent. I often come off the stand after playing with Steve and think "Damn, so THAT'S how it's supposed to go!" I have learned as much from Steve about playing music than I have from any of my formal teachers. Steve has two burning solos on <em>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</em> (on Clockwise and I'm Not So Sure).<br> <p><a contents="http://www.stevekovalcheck.com/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.stevekovalcheck.com/">http://www.stevekovalcheck.com/</a></p><br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton - Available everywhere February 17th.</strong><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/9f1429afbcecee9fced6cea1def97a309d1c2385/original/stevekovalchecktrio.jpg?1486051029" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45719792017-02-01T14:54:27-07:002017-02-04T08:05:14-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton Release Countdown Day 17February 17th is the official release date for <strong>Clockwise:The Music of Cedar Walton</strong><br><br>In anticipation of the release I will feature each member in the band. It is only fitting we begin with rhythm section first. Today we begin with the inspiration for this entire project - The great Cedar Walton. Cedar is one of the beloved figures from the hard bop era. As a sideman he worked with the best and most influential artists of our time including John Coltrane, Benny Golson, Joe Henderson, Art Blakey, Freddie Hubbard and Wayne Shorter. He was highly sought after because of his excellent work as an accompanist - a skill he perfected while working in one of the classic formations of the Jazz Messenger. As a leader his trio featured the incomparable Sam Jones and Billie Higgins. Several of Walton's compositions are cemented in the jazz canon including Bolivia, Firm Roots, and Hindsight. <p>One of the most prominent aspects of Cedar's playing is his ever-present ability to play the blues (not just on blues tunes, on everything!). He truly embodies the African esthetic that is present in Black American Music (Swinging and Blues Based) Jazz! In regards to blues tunes, Walton always had a steady diet in his sets and recordings. <br><br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/a0d909bbc28eecf5650a3f29c001e6266688add8/original/6a00e008dca1f088340192aca11cea970d-500wi.jpg?1485967693" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><br><br><br>Here is article the New York Times published following Walton's death in 2013.<br><br>"Cedar Walton, a pianist who distinguished himself as both an accompanist and a soloist, and who wrote some of the most enduring compositions in modern jazz while a member of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers in the early 1960s, died on Monday at his home in Brooklyn. He was 79. </p>
<p>His death followed a brief illness, his manager, Jean-Pierre Leduc, said. </p>
<p>Mr. Walton sat in with Charlie Parker, spent a year accompanying the singer Abbey Lincoln, and recorded with both John Coltrane and, much later, the saxophonist Joshua Redman. He led a series of successful small groups, including a trio and a quartet that both featured his longtime collaborator, the drummer Billy Higgins. Yet he probably remained best known for his early work with one of the most influential incarnations of the Jazz Messengers, the group that the drummer Art Blakey ran as a kind of postgraduate performance academy for rising jazz stars. </p>
<p>Mr. Walton joined the Jazz Messengers in 1961, on the same day as the trumpeter Freddie Hubbard. (Among the other members of the group at the time, was the tenor saxophonist Wayne Shorter.) It was here that Mr. Walton established himself as a composer; over the years he would write a number of pieces that became jazz standards, including “Mosaic,” “Bolivia,” “Mode for Joe” and “Ugetsu,” also known as “Fantasy in D.” </p>
<p>Mr. Walton said his time with the Jazz Messengers helped him greatly as an accompanist, a role he often said he preferred to that of leader. Asked in a 2010 interview — conducted in conjunction with his being named a Jazz Master by the National Endowment for the Arts — what was most important about providing accompaniment in an ensemble that thrives on improvisation, he said, “Total listening.” </p>
<p>Cedar Anthony Walton Jr. was born on Jan. 17, 1934, in Dallas. His mother, Ruth, played and sang popular songs at home. He was not initially interested in reading music, but he showed an early inclination to compose. </p>
<p>Photo <br>Cedar Walton performing with his quartet in 2009.CreditRachel Papo for The New York Times </p>
<p>“Are you making up songs again?” his mother would call out. </p>
<p>He studied music composition at the University of Denver but later switched to music education. Instead of graduating he left in 1955 for New York, where he soon joined the local jazz scene. </p>
<p>Mr. Walton’s survivors include his wife, Martha Sammaciccia; three children from an earlier marriage, Carl, Rodney and Cedra; and a daughter from another relationship, Naisha. </p>
<p>In April 1959, after serving in the Army, Mr. Walton was sought out by John Coltrane to play on a rehearsal recording for what would become one of his landmark albums “Giant Steps.” Mr. Walton played on the technically daunting title song but declined to take a solo. He soon realized that had been a mistake. </p>
<p>“The song was too hard for me,” he said in a 2011 interview with JazzWax, Marc Myers’s Web site. “But you just didn’t do that. I was young.” </p>
<p>When the album was recorded, Mr. Walton was out of town and Tommy Flanagan played piano. Years later, the sessions with Mr. Walton were released as alternate tracks. By then, he had long since established himself as a forceful and elegant soloist. His years with Mr. Blakey helped. </p>
<p>“He had sort of a bombastic style, but he would leave little openings for you,” Mr. Walton said in the 2010 interview. “So you developed your radar when to get in. If you didn’t get in then, you wouldn’t be heard.”<br><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> available February 17.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/45366612017-01-04T08:37:53-07:002017-01-11T20:51:56-07:00Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/db012c88c4a7f86a3dabebadbc81f8245fe30209/original/51n3zydnesl-sx425.jpg?1483543907" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><strong>Clockwise: The Music of Cedar Walton</strong> - played by the Ben Markley Big Band featuring Terell Stafford will be available for purchase on February 17. <br> <p>Pianist Ben Markley, along with special guest trumpeter Terell Stafford, celebrates one of the more influential and beloved figures in jazz through this unique project, showcasing many of the late pianist and composer Cedar Walton's most revered tunes through new arrangements for big band. Performing iconic compositions such as 'Hindsight,' 'Bolivia,' and 'Holy Land,' Markley brings together fellow faculty members from the University of Wyoming and top-flight Denver-area musicians to produce an honest and swinging recording that honors Cedar Walton while presenting his music in a bright new light. 'Ben has found a way to embrace the music of Cedar Walton and transform it into stellar big band arrangements that express his voice, sound and musical genius. ' - TERELL STAFFORD'. . . to hear a big band's interpretation of Cedar's music has to be the most beautiful thing I have ever heard in my life!. . . I know Cedar is beaming at the results!!' - MARTHA WALTON . . .“Wonderful! Masterful writing and orchestration, all in the proper context of Cedar. Ben plays his ass off!” DAVID HAZELTINE.<br><br><br><strong>Saxophones:</strong><br>Wil Swindler<br>Scott Turpen<br>Peter Sommer<br>Serafin Sanchez<br>Sam Williams<br><br><strong>Trombones:</strong><br>Scott Crump<br>Paul McKee<br>Adam Bartczak<br>Gary Mayne<br><br><strong>Trumpets:</strong><br>Pete Olstad<br>Greg Gisbert<br>John Lake<br>Terell Stafford<br><br><strong>Rhythm:</strong><br>Ben Markley - Piano<br>Steve Kovalcheck - Guitar<br>Ken Walker - Bass<br>Chris Smith - Drums<br><br>OA2 Records<br><br>Album design - John Bishop<br><br>Recording Engineer and Mixing - Colin Bricker. Mighty Fine Productions<br><br>Mastering Phil Bulla - Platinum Productions</p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/43033462016-07-31T10:10:13-06:002020-03-16T22:14:33-06:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 1 Bolivia<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/5fb8bfa74f5d3d406b3d74b5aac1d8392b1baf3d/original/eastern-rebellion.jpg?1469980766" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><b>Bolivia </b>is one of my all-time favorite jazz tunes. It was first recorded on <em>Eastern Rebellion</em>. The record features tenor saxophone great George Coleman as well the Sam Jones and Billy Higgins. Cedar went on to record this tune several times on albums such as <i>3rd Set </i>(Steeplechase - 1977), <em>Roots (</em>Astor Place - 1997, <em>Midnight Waltz (</em>Venus - 2005). His Messenger's band mate Freddie Hubbard also played this tune frequently recording it with Walton on the record <em>Homegrown</em> (Master Music - 1991) with Ralph Moore, Vincent Herring, David Williams, and Billy Higgins.<br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="5ubU5TclcEg" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/5ubU5TclcEg/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5ubU5TclcEg?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/43033202016-07-31T09:56:47-06:002017-01-15T20:38:57-07:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 2 Hindsight<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/b0c94fb929acdc8d12ac369969c0fdcecb16fe70/original/31fopslovxl-sl256.jpg?1469656787" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><strong>Hindsight </strong>like (<strong>Fiesta Español</strong>) was first recorded on the Junior Cook's <em>Something's Cookin". </em> The record features Buster Williams and Billy Higgins along with Cook and Walton. Walton only recorded the tune twice. Once in 1996 on the album <em>Composer<strong> </strong></em>and again in 2008 on the record Seasoned Wood (on the High Note label). S.W. features Jeremy Pelt, Vincent Herring , Peter Washington, Al Foster. On this recording, Walton recorded the tune as a piano trio. <br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="XKLdmcbOXY8" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/XKLdmcbOXY8/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XKLdmcbOXY8?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe><br><br><strong>While Hindsight </strong>hasn't been recorded that often, it's a tune that musicians familiar with Walton's work have in their repertoire. It begins with a chordal introduction that plains dominant seven #9 chords. The melody begins with series chords descending by half-step (First chord major following by a dominant 7 flat-nine chord tri-tone sub etc). The sequence continues for 8 measure before entering into a modal section that contrasts the previous section having one chord for 4 bars before changing. In addition to the well balanced harmonic rhythm of the tune, there are two sections in which the bass line (played by piano and bass) becomes the melody.benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/43000612016-07-28T22:55:41-06:002017-01-15T20:38:57-07:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 3 Martha's Prize <strong>Martha's Prize</strong><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/8468eab7b5f953a0c9375002f1f9748cd63acb34/original/mi0000098108.jpg?1469765089" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><strong>Martha's Prize</strong> is one of Cedar's lesser known gems. Written (I assume) for his wife Martha. This tune was first recorded in 1996 on the record <i>Composer</i> on Astor Place records. The record features, Christian McBride, Victor Lewis, Roy Hargrove, Vincent Herring and Ralph Moore. <em>Composer </em>different from <em>Roots</em> features compositions that were recently composed by Walton (<strong>Hindsight </strong>and <b>Groundwork </b>excepted). <br><br><strong>Martha's Prize</strong> has many pianistic features that are very fun to play. The intro/solo interlude bounces between two chords and features a bass lined played by piano and bass. Upon the first listen of the tune the listener can underestimate the subtle intricacies of the blowing changes. The A section harmonies begin with ii-V-I in the tonic followed by a tri-tone substitution to the IV chord before a walk up cadence starting on the ii chord. The bridge however is where the improviser is truly tested. It begins with a minor ii-V-I to the vi chord followed by a ii-V-I on to the bVI. While this harmonic movement is somewhat unusual, the true difficulty lies in the displacement of the harmonic rhythm. The rhythm is displace by two beats. The chords in the bridge are as follows. <br><br>Dm7b5 G7b9/C-7 C#-7/F#7 Bmaj7/Bb-7 Eb7 /Abmaj7 G7b9/C-7 --/F#-7 B7/Emaj7 / <br><br>The displacement of the harmonic rhythm seems fairly simple (at least from a conceptual standpoint) it proves to be quite difficult in how it interrupts the melodic flow of the improvisor's line. Cedar (of course) makes it sound easy!<br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="fO1iJuefI2M" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/fO1iJuefI2M/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fO1iJuefI2M?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe><br><br>Thus far I shared recordings of Walton playing his tunes. Since this tune hasn't been recorded as much as some of Walton's other tunes, I wanted to share an additional recording of this tune played by master pianist David Hazeltine. Cedar once asked David "<em>What else do I know?" </em> It's only fitting one of Hazeltine's recordings of Cedar's work is included. David recorded <em>I Remember Cedar </em>in 2014 on Sharp Nine records with David Williams and Joe Farnsworth. This entire is record is perfect! Hazeltine's playing (as well as Williams and Farnsworth) is immaculate as well as swinging. One of the other aspects of Hazeltine's playing I like on his rendition of <strong>Martha's Prize</strong> is the orchestrated send off he gives himself at the 3:24 mark in the tune (which occurs over the entire A section for that chorus). The sendoff provides some continuity in the tune and is a springboard for Hazeltine to craft is perfect lines over the Walton composition. <br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="rX5woN7yBrI" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/rX5woN7yBrI/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rX5woN7yBrI?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/42976182016-07-27T21:50:25-06:002020-01-20T03:42:03-07:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 4 Fiesta Español<strong>Fiesta Español<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/b0c94fb929acdc8d12ac369969c0fdcecb16fe70/original/31fopslovxl-sl256.jpg?1469656787" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></strong><br> <p><strong>Fiesta Español </strong>was first recorded in 1981 by Junior Cook on the record Somethin's Cookin' (It can also be found on iTunes under the title <em>Senior Cookin</em>). In addition to Walton the record featured Buster Williams and Billy Higgins. Cedar doesn't have that many compositions that strictly stay in a latin groove for the entire tune (<i>Ojos De Rojo </i>and <i>Theme for Jobim </i>being others that comes to mind). Many of Walton's tunes that have a latin groove alternate between latin and swing tunes like <strong>Mosaic</strong> and <strong>Voices Deep Within</strong>. Like many of Walton's tunes it complete or already arranged in that it has an introduction and solo sendoff/extension on the form. <strong>Fiesta Español </strong>is one of Walton's tunes that was not recorded as many as some. Walton recorded it as a leader in 1985 on <em>Cedar's Blues</em> again in 1995 <i>Ironclad - Live at Yoshi's </i>(in the trio format) and again in 1997 on the album <strong>Roots</strong>. <strong>Roots </strong>was put out on the Astor Place label. It features Ron Carter and Lewis Nash in the rhythm section as well as guest soloists Joshua Redman, Terence Blanchard, and Mark Whitfield, as well as a five horn band (and one auxiliary percussionist) that plays the arrangements written by Walton. Tenor Saxophonist Junior Cook recorded the tune twice (once in 1981 shown above and again in 1991 on the Steeplechase label titled <em>Junior Cook - Y</em><em>ou Leave Me Breathless</em>)<em>.</em><br><br>My favorite recording of this tune Cedar's trio rendition of it from <em>Ironclad - Live at Yoshi's. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/f78d43b8b9bc7ba31cc165ccf21efde6dd330035/original/mi0001810082.jpg?1469676798" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></em><br><br>In this recording Walton plays the tune at a brighter clip than previously recordings. As a soloist when playing a tune like this, there is a temptation to "go for it" and to come out of the gates too fast leaving yourself nowhere to go. While I don't advocate for improvisors to plan out a solo or build a solo, there is a very natural build that occurs in Cedar's solo on this particular recording. In the midst of Walton's solo on this tune, he quotes the tune <em>I Love You </em>which demonstrates his musical sense of humor. Walton would occasionally quote other tunes when improvising much in the same Charlie Parker did. There's never any shtick involved, just the essence of a true improvisor. *** (the clip below is from a compilation, but comes from <em>Live at Yoshi's </em>pictured above.)<br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="3b6atCdCWD8" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/3b6atCdCWD8/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3b6atCdCWD8?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p><br><br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/42958022016-07-26T20:27:25-06:002017-01-15T20:38:57-07:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 5 Holy Land<strong>Holy Land</strong><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/f3c3f4d1829672a010f9cc9d873812961e9d7fbf/original/mi0001745633.jpg?1469564390" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><em>Holy Land </em>was first recorded by Cedar Walton in 1973 on the record <strong>The Cedar Walton Trio - A Night At Boomers, Vol. 1 </strong>(today both volumes are on one CD or digital download). This record features Clifford Jordan, Sam Jones, and Louis Hayes. <em>Holy Land</em> is a minor blues that is much more than a standard 12 bar blues. Harmonically, the tune moves to the IV and I chords in the expected places, but Walton also includes a ii-V to Eb major key center (bIII) in mm 6. Additionally, the chords in measure mm. 9 and 10 are different many of the turnarounds in standard minor blues' (VI7 bVI). One of the most notable features of the tune is the solo piano rubato introduction/interlude before and between the melody. I love to listen to the multiple recordings of Walton playing this tune. He never plays it the same way twice. The listener can hear him exploring different elements of pacing, style, and harmony. Furthermore, the rubato interludes are a unique sonic change from all of the rhythm section playing together at the same time. <br><br>Walton recorded this tune several times in the trio and quartet settings. The first two recordings were quartet sessions that featured tenor saxophonist Clifford Jordan. The second recording of this tune can be found on a Clifford Jordan record titled<strong> Clifford Jordan Quartet Half Note (</strong>Steeplechase)<b> <br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="pgEl6vRaQiw" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/pgEl6vRaQiw/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pgEl6vRaQiw?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></b><br><br>In addition to Walton and Jordan, the session features Sam Jones and Tootie Heath. While the recording quality of the record isn't great, the playing is burning! In addition to <em>Holy Land</em> the band also plays Cedar's <em>Midnight Waltz</em>. I've always enjoyed Cedar's work with Clifford Jordan. His playing always seems to be inspired. And his comping! Cedar's comping is grooving, supportive, as well as suggestive. As a pianist I continue to be drawn to how Cedar comps behind Clifford Jordan on <strong>Half Note</strong>. Sam Jones and Tootie Heath really hook up well too. They provide solid swingin beat for Walton and Jordan. <br><br>I will close this installment by recommending some recordings on which Clifford Jordan is the leader. Cedar plays on all of them and in most cases the rhythm section is Sam Jones and Billy Higgins. It's also pretty common for at least one Walton original to show on these recordings too. <br><br><b>Glass Bead Games<br>Mosaic<br>Night at the Mark VII<br>Clifford Jordan and Magic Triangle - Firm Roots</b><br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/42948192016-07-25T23:01:09-06:002017-01-15T20:38:57-07:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 6 Clockwise<strong>Clockwise </strong><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/bc31db94bf0873543fa90f624f85ec4e489f0b99/original/mi0001606560.jpg?1469506004" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><em>Clockwise</em> is one of Cedar Walton's most challenging compositions. The chord changes to the A section of the tune provide insight into some of Cedar's compositional tools and also reiterate the influence of Art Tatum. The A section features major chords succeeded by dominant chords a tri-tone away. The tune goes through 8 key centers (a tough to blow over!). Tatum has influenced (and continues to influence) jazz musicians with his use of harmonic substitutions (tri-tone subs in particular). Like many pianists, Cedar loves dominant chords and tri-tone subs. We hear this in his interpretation of standards and also in his compositions. Walton originals like <em>Hindsight and Clockwise</em> contain a number of tri-tone substitutions. Additionally, each tune travels through many key centers. <br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="x_WXC11uvY0" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/x_WXC11uvY0/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x_WXC11uvY0?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe><br><br>Cedar recorded this tune in 1979 with his Eastern Rebellion group with Bob Berg, Sam Jones, and Billy Higgins. Curtis Fuller joined the group for<em> </em>part of the recording (playing on <em>Clockwise </em>and <em>Firm Roots</em> which were recorded in 1979 the other tunes on the record were recorded in 1977). Bobby Hutcherson also recorded <em>Clockwise </em>in 1979. What is particularly noteworthy about this recording (in regards to my project of arranging Cedar's music in the big band setting) is that it's one of the largest groups to date to record one of Cedar's tunes. <br><br><a contents="Clockwise - Bobby Hutcherson, Conception: The Gift of Love" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/_q3Et1k-hJI">Clockwise - Bobby Hutcherson, Conception: The Gift of Love</a><br><br><br><br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/42929202016-07-24T22:42:11-06:002016-07-24T22:50:01-06:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 7 Ballads, I'll Let You Know<strong>Ballads - I'll Let You Know</strong><br><br>In addition to talking about the ballads Walton played and composed, I wanted to talk a little about some of his influences. Solo piano performances as well as ballads (whether in the trio or solo context) provide a lot of insight into a pianist's influences. In an interview in 2010 with Ethan Iverson, Walton says of his influences,<br> <br>" I was so hungry. There were many Nat King Cole records… Before I left Dallas, I remember the first recording of “Satin Doll” by Duke Ellington on Capitol. I couldn’t believe it. I played that 78 record over and over. I can remember that as an outstanding experience – the clarity."<p>EI: What about your exposure to Bud Powell? </p>
<p>CW: By the time I heard Bud, I think he’d been sick. He wasn’t the Bud that I heard on record in Texas, like “Somebody Loves Me,” “Parisian Thoroughfare” – all his great records. I heard his “Over the Rainbow,” which I still sort of play like him. “Petty larceny” you might call it. </p>
<p>Walter Davis Jr. told me about watching Bud. Bud could play endlessly. They’d have to say, “Okay, Bud, that’s enough.” Bird and Dizzy, they had to use their lungs. But Bud was endless in this magical thing he had come upon. As far as the records, the history of piano goes, he succeeded people like Teddy Wilson and Earl “Fatha” Hines in that style – even Ellington. And he played horn-like, as you know, figures up here[mimes treble clef] but unusually structured. And his chordal knowledge, as it turned out, was very influential – to say the least! He was absolutely innovative. </p>
<p>EI: Did you try to learn Bud’s lines in Texas? </p>
<p>CW: Mmm-hmm. I was trying to learn everybody’s lines. I was very impressionable. Also, I was fascinated with Bud’s accompaniment on the records with Miles and Bird. I heard those chords – they’re so rich. And as much as he could do with lines, he was doing that as well as he did this. </p>
<p>I was a fanatic, trying to absorb all the material off the records, but you could only get to a certain degree. You had to see someone playing this. </p>
<p>EI: So who showed you stuff at the piano? </p>
<p>CW: A guy named Gil Coggins. </p>
<p>EI: Oh, right, he’s on some of the Miles records. </p>
<p>CW: On one at least. He wasn’t a great soloist; he was a great accompanist. He had played with Lester Young, too. I met him over here in Bed Stuy in a brownstone on Washington Avenue. His mother rented out rooms to those of us who had just got to town. Even before I moved in we became friends: I would go over and he would show me stuff he had learned while he was with Miles. He was very respectful of Miles. Miles knew a lot of harmony; Miles was a student of harmony. He came up with a new version of George Shearing’s “Conception” – you remember that piece? I forgot what Miles called it.<br><br>Ethan Iverson does a wonderful job with these interviews. The entire interview with Cedar as well as an interview with my former teacher David Hazeltine can be found at <a contents="Ethan Iverson/Cedar Walton Interview" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://ethaniverson.com/interview-with-cedar-walton/" target="_blank">Ethan Iverson/Cedar Walton Interview</a></p>One influence that I others have found very apparent is that of Art Tatum. Walton demonstrates this with unaccompanied rubato introduction of <em>I'll Let You Know</em>.
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="34sLPyiJ7Pk" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/34sLPyiJ7Pk/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/34sLPyiJ7Pk?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p><br>The pacing of Walton's solo piano introductions are also very influenced by Tatum. <b>Cedar Walton at Maybeck</b> is a shining example of Walton playing in the solo context. In this record, his influences are acknowledged while his playing is still inherently Cedar.<br><br>Two original ballads that Walton penned were <i>I'll Let You Know </i>(which shows up on the recordings <strong>Mosaic</strong> and <strong>Roots</strong> as well as the above listed trio clip) and <em>When Love is New</em>. <em>When Love is New </em>first showed up on the Jazz Messengers recording <strong>Indestructible</strong> and a few years later on the Lee Morgan record <strong>Charisma </strong>under the title <em>Rainy Night</em>. <br><br>One of the aspects about Walton's ballad playing that drew me in was the freedom in which he played. Whether playing on a standard such as <em>Somewhere Over the Rainbow</em> (one of his specialties) or one of his own compositions, he possessed the ability to freely create melody as well as an esthetic that captivated the listener. <br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/42919062016-07-23T11:59:10-06:002017-01-15T20:38:57-07:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 8 I'm Not So Sure<strong><em>I'm Not So Sure</em></strong><br><br>Jazz music in the late 60s and into 70s began to use electric instruments. Many pianists started to play rhodes and other keyboards. In 1969 Cedar released a recording on Prestige titled <strong>Soul Cycle</strong>.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/6578e7ed1ea0bf93de4fcdefa476dbed21aa0156/original/mi0002041968.jpg?1469294653" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><br>in the liner notes Walton writes "<em>During the course of a career in music, sooner or later the artist will come face to face with the task of reaching and appealing to a larger listening audience than before. In view of the obvious benefits of such an accomplishment (more record sales, better paying gigs) it would seem that the artist would happily immerse himself in the pleasant activity of seeking out new material, experimenting with various methods of presenting new and old works, taking care that the essence of nature of his original style is not sacrificed. However, it should be point out that this effort to preserve a high lever of quality is not with out certain pit falls - "built-in contradictions", so to speak. For instance, the listening public "tuned in" or accustomed to previous performances may become disenchanted, or, as in some cases, completely alienated by, in their judgement, this "sudden switch to out-and-out commercialism". Therefore, the attempt to attract the larger commercial audience results in the loss of a more compact but loyal following</em>" <br><br>With this recording and others with Milt Jackson (<em>Bag's Bag) </em>Walton showed lot of jazz musicians entrenched in the tradition that it was ok to evolve while still keeping the integrity of the music. On the recording <strong>Soul Cycle, </strong>the title track <em>Sundown Express </em>shows up on a Messengers record featuring Woody Shaw (this time titled <i>I'm Not So Sure</i>) titled Anthenagin (in 1973) and later with Cedar's acoustic quartet titled <b>First Set </b>(which is part of 3 recordings on Steeplechase recorded on the same night in 1977). <strong>First Set </strong>features Sam Jones, Billy Higgins, and a young Bog Berg. There is a lot of variance between each of the 3 recordings of <em>I'm Not So Sure . </em>The <strong>First Set </strong>recording is very funky and embodies many of the great playing characteristics of rhythm section. The playing styles of Billy Higgins and Sam Jones are very unique. Studying Higgins' cymbal beat and Jones' placement of the beat, reveals a depth and nuance of playing style that is truly only grasped through countless hour of listening and practice. That's why so my arrangers or composers write "Billy Higgins" groove! <br><br><em>I'm Not So Sure </em>from <strong>First Set </strong>was one of those tunes that I had on repeat for a long time. Enjoy!<br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="2AhhetUZaRA" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/2AhhetUZaRA/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2AhhetUZaRA?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/42906932016-07-22T14:53:29-06:002016-07-22T15:59:55-06:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 9 Black<strong><em>Black</em></strong><br><br>Cedar Walton has played with some of the greatest tenor players in the history of jazz music. Players including Clifford Jordan, George Coleman, Wayne Shorter, John Coltrane, Dexter Gordon, and Junior Cook. <br><br>Cedar contributed many compositions to bands and recording sessions that he was a part of. We begin to see many of his compositions and arrangements showing up with Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. Tunes like - Mosaic, Plexus, and The Promise Land. <br><br>One of my favorite records on which Walton played and contributed tunes as sideman was <strong>Mode for Joe</strong> lead by Joe Henderson. Henderson and Walton are joined by Lee Morgan, Curtis Fuller, Bobby Hutcherson, Ron Carter, and Joe Chambers. Everyone plays so well on this record, but check out Joe Chambers! There are so many great moments. For this record date, Walton contributed two originals <em>Mode of Joe</em> (oddly enough not written for Joe Henderson) and <em>Black</em>.<br><br><em>Black </em>is very reminiscent of a tune that the Messengers would play. 4 horn writing (counting vibes) A sustained introduction before launching into a groove before the head starts. The blowing form is 40 bars that are comprised of a balance of sustained and faster moving harmonic rhythm in the A sections and bridge respectively - a tune that is a perfect vehicle for Joe Henderson. <em>Black </em>is a Cedar tune that hasn't been recording much (to my knowledg), once on this Joe Henderson record and once on a Cedar Walton tribute recording titled <strong>Cedar Chest: The Cedar Walton Songbook</strong> which features many different guest artists. <br><br>Since we're talking about tenor players, I thought I'd share a link that offers a little more about Cedar and his involvement John Coltrane and the classic record Giant Steps. When the "alternate takes" of the record were released many years after recording, we learned Walton played on these. He in fact was asked to do the record date with Coltrane, but was scheduled to go out on the road with another band. The "alternate takes" included on later released recordings of Giant Steps were really rehearsal recordings according to Walton. Here's a link to that story: <a contents="Cedar Walton Giant Steps Story" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.jazzwax.com/2013/08/cedar-walton-on-giant-steps.html" target="_blank">Cedar Walton Giant Steps Story</a> <br><br>And now for the music!<br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="MAUbqn4cuOg" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/MAUbqn4cuOg/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MAUbqn4cuOg?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/42891072016-07-21T14:38:15-06:002016-07-22T14:53:41-06:00Cedar Walton Big Band Project - Day 10 Cedar's BluesHi Folks,<br><br>There are 10 days until the Ben Markley Big Band featuring Terell Stafford plays Cedar Walton. I thought I'd share a Cedar tune and recording that 1) is a favorite of mine and 2) that I did an arrangement of. Additionally, I'll share some commentary and biographical info on Cedar and his recordings.<br><br>For those of you who don't know a lot about Cedar, I've included his biography from the National Endowment of the Arts. Walton was recognized as a NEA Jazz Master in 2010.<p>"One of the great hard bop pianists, Cedar Walton was also known for his compositions, some of which have become jazz standards, such as "Bolivia," "Clockwise," and "Firm Roots." </p>
<p>Walton was first taught piano by his mother, and, after high school, moved to Colorado to commence studies at the University of Denver. There, during after-hours jazz club gigs, he met musicians, such as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, and John Coltrane, who would sit in with Walton's group when traveling through town. </p>
<p>Eventually, Walton moved to New York. In 1955, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and sent to Germany where he performed in a military jazz ensemble. Upon his return to New York City two years later, he began playing and recording with Kenny Dorham, J. J. Johnson, and Gigi Gryce. In 1959, he recorded with Coltrane on his seminal album Giant Steps, but the recordings weren't included on the initial issue of the album; the alternate tracks were later issued on the CD version. From 1960-61, Walton worked with Art Farmer and Benny Golson's band Jazztet. </p>
<p>Walton's next significant musical association was with Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. During his years with Blakey (1961-64), Walton stepped forward as composer, contributing originals such as "Mosaic," "Ugetsu," and "The Promised Land" to the group's repertoire. Walton left the Jazz Messengers to lead rhythm sections and trios featured in various New York clubs and work as a sideman for well-known artists such as Abbey Lincoln (1965-66) and Lee Morgan (1966-68). </p>
<p>In 1974, Walton joined with bassist Sam Jones, drummer Billy Higgins, and saxophonist Clifford Jordan to form the group Eastern Rebellion, which would perform and record sporadically over the subsequent two decades. Other musicians rotated in and out of the band, including George Coleman, Bob Berg, Ralph Moore, David Williams, Curtis Fuller, and Alfredo "Chocolate" Armenteros. Higgins became a regular accompanist for Walton throughout the 1980s -- along with other stellar musicians such as Ron Carter,Bobby Hutcherson, Harold Land, and Buster Williams. In addition, he continued to perform in rhythm sections for Milt Jackson, Frank Morgan, and Dexter Gordon and accompanied vocalists Ernestine Anderson and Freddy Cole. He also led the backup trio for the Trumpet Summit Band, which started as a project for the 1995 Jazz in Marciac festival in France." - National Endowment for the Arts<br> </p><strong><em>Cedar's Blues</em> </strong><br>One of the most prominent aspects of Cedar's playing is his ever-present ability to play the blues (not just on blues tunes, on everything!). He truly embodies the African esthetic that is present in Black American Music (Swinging and Blues Based) Jazz! In regards to blues tunes, Walton always had a steady diet in his sets and recordings. <br><br><em>Cedar's Blues</em> is a great example of Walton's compositional style. Many of Cedar's tunes are already arranged (complete if you will). They are complete in that he wrote intros and codas for the pieces. They more than the typical standard song forms with a new melody (contrafact). <br><br>Walton didn't use many standard song forms as compositional vehicles. Other than the blues (of which he wrote several) he did write a contrafact on <em>Love for Sale </em>titled <em> Hand in Glove</em>. When Cedar writes on a blues form, he often adds compositional elements that distinguish his blues' from others. The head of <em>Cedar's Blues </em>is 16 bars and features two descending four bar pedal sections at the the last half of the tune. While the blowing changes revert back to the standard chords we expect over the 12 bar form it's tunes like <em>Cedar's Blues</em> and <em>The Newest Blues</em> that offer a glimpse some of Walton's compositional style on the blues.Two other blues tunes worth examining are Bremond's Blues and <em>Holy Land</em> (which I'll discuss later). These two tunes show Walton introducing some different harmonies in blues form and retaining the same harmonies for the blowing. <br><br>The recording I've selected features Walton's associate from the Jazz Messengers Curtis Fuller on trombone, longtime member of his trio Billy Higgins on drums, David Williams on bass (who succeeded the great Sam Jones) and Bob Berg on Tenor saxophone. <p><a contents="Cedar's Blues" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/gRQJL4lKG-4" target="_blank">Cedar's Blues</a></p><br>Enjoy!<br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/42547552016-06-28T21:18:44-06:002017-01-15T20:38:56-07:00Ben Markley Big Band Featuring Terell Stafford plays the music of Cedar WaltonThis project has been a long time in the works! On Sunday, July 31 at 7pm, the Ben Markley Big Band featuring Terell Stafford plays the music of jazz legend Cedar Walton at Dazzle Jazz Club. Walton is famous for his work as leader with his trio and quartet Eastern Rebellion as well as sideman work with Art Blakey, Joe Henderson, and Freddie Hubbard among countless others. Walton spent a couple years in Denver studying at Denver University. While Walton's works are frequently played by small groups few of his tunes have been arranged for big band. This band celebrates some of Cedar Walton's well known works as well as some of his lesser known compositions.<br><br>Tickets available at: <p><a contents="http://dazzlejazz.ticketfly.com/event/1230605-ben-markley-big-band-terell-denver/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://dazzlejazz.ticketfly.com/event/1230605-ben-markley-big-band-terell-denver/">http://dazzlejazz.ticketfly.com/event/1230605-ben-markley-big-band-terell-denver/</a></p><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/aab3fe501db318bca4499e5306b0ceccf81e1f62/original/benmarkleybigband.jpg?1467170115" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/41623092016-05-02T10:31:03-06:002017-01-15T20:38:56-07:00Ben Markley Trio Featuring Kate Skinner <strong><span class="font_xl">The Ben Markley Trio Featuring Kate Skinner<br>with Matt Smiley and Ed Breazeale.</span><br><br><span class="font_large">Friday, May 13 7:30pm<br><br>C.L. Hoover Opera House, Junction City Kansas<br>Tickets - </span><a contents="www.jcoperahouse.org" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.jcoperhouse.org"><span class="font_large">www.jcoperahouse.org</span></a></strong><br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/7b61c27dda9788d90d4388b9a596fa276b0be184/original/13123211-10153681813553121-2363042014237190877-o.jpg?1462206624" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/40703772016-03-02T19:44:30-07:002021-06-04T09:36:32-06:00The Music of Cedar WaltonI'm happy to be playing some of music of Cedar Walton on Wednesday, April 6 at the University of Wyoming in concert with Erik Applegate on bass and Chris Smith on drums. 7:30pm University of Wyoming BCPA Concert Hall. Free Admission.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/434e7dc2345e256a39e389b2569b0ee690eace7a/original/cedar-walton-poster-v2.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/38938212015-10-12T13:59:22-06:002017-01-15T20:38:56-07:00Ben Markley Music News and Email list<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Hello Everyone!</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I wanted to let you know about some exciting gigs coming up in the next few weeks as well as some new additions to my website. </span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Friday, October 16</strong><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> - Josh Quinlan Q'tet with Greg Osby</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Dazzle Jazz Sets at 7pm and 9pm </strong><a contents="http://dazzlejazz.ticketfly.com/event/898105-josh-quinlan-quartet-special-denver/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://dazzlejazz.ticketfly.com/event/898105-josh-quinlan-quartet-special-denver/" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">http://dazzlejazz.ticketfly.com/event/898105-josh-quinlan-quartet-special-denver/</a><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Josh Quinlan - saxophones</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Greg Osby - alto saxophone</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Ben Markley - piano</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Matt Smiley - bass</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Ed Breazeale - drums</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/c495e63d891c24b59691cd5c31419cb4b1e90640/original/greg-osby-at-dazzle-page-001.jpg?1444678533" class="size_l justify_center border_" style="padding: 0px; border: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Ace Gillet's in Ft. Collins has been my home on Thursdays and Fridays for the last three years. The house band includes our leader John Olson - drums, Matt Smiley - bass, me - piano. Most Thursdays feature saxophonist Andrew Voght and Fridays the soloist rotates among the finest horn players and guitarists along the front range. Ace Gillet's boasts some of the best food, drink, and atmosphere in Ft. Collins. </span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a contents="http://www.acegilletts.com/music.php" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.acegilletts.com/music.php" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">http://www.acegilletts.com/music.php</a><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">On occasion Ace has hosted nationally know artists including Terell Stafford. We are happy to add John Fedchock to this list!</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Thursday, October 22 - John Fedchock with the Subterranean Jazz Trio.</strong><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Admission: Free!</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">My weekly schedule can be found on the "Gigs" tab on my website. </span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><strong style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Ben Markley Music Youtube Chanel.</strong><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Last week I gave a concert at the University of Wyoming that featured my original compositions for jazz trio and strings. This concert featured violinist - John Fadial, bassist Matt Smiley, drummer Chris Smith, and the UW String Students. I hope you'll take a moment to check out this videos. We had a blast performing the music! </span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Here's the link.</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a contents="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbYPaQ23_ORRKa_nNBHjO-8gEM1TGPiuo" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbYPaQ23_ORRKa_nNBHjO-8gEM1TGPiuo" style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(11, 113, 182); text-decoration: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbYPaQ23_ORRKa_nNBHjO-8gEM1TGPiuo</a><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I've also added a "Videos" tab on my website that will feature videos from past present. </span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Thanks and keep swingin'!</span><br style="padding: 0px; margin: 0px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/38871922015-10-07T13:13:43-06:002015-10-07T13:13:43-06:00Ben Markley Music Youtube Channel I've started a Youtube channel and hope you'll take a minute to check out some of the music from my most recent performance with strings. <br><br><a contents="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbYPaQ23_ORRKa_nNBHjO-8gEM1TGPiuo" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbYPaQ23_ORRKa_nNBHjO-8gEM1TGPiuo">https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbYPaQ23_ORRKa_nNBHjO-8gEM1TGPiuo</a><br><br>Here is one of the pieces <i>Tune for the Deserted</i>. Enjoy!<br><br><br> <iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="v7l2W1mmHQ8" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/v7l2W1mmHQ8/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/v7l2W1mmHQ8?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe><br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/38828542015-10-05T08:54:09-06:002017-01-15T20:38:55-07:00Swingin' with Strings Wyoming Public Radio Interview Wyoming Public Radio will be doing a feature for my concert this evening. Their program airs at 11:15am MST. You can listen from this link <a contents="http://wyomingpublicmedia.org/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://wyomingpublicmedia.org/">http://wyomingpublicmedia.org/</a><br><br>They'll also be giving away some of my CDs (The Return) during their pledge drive.<br><br><br><strong>Concert Details</strong>: <br>Swinin' with Strings featuring John Fadial, Chris Smith, Wil Swindler and the UW Strings.<br><br><strong>Tonight</strong> - Monday, October 5th <br>7:30pm Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts (formerly Fine Arts)<br>Free Admission<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/8c76b21f0cc4b12de60f6157fda3098402c56008/original/12002561-10153224082203121-4323081702702555936-o.jpg?1443505288" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/38733892015-09-28T23:48:13-06:002017-01-15T20:38:55-07:00Swingin' with StringsTonight was the first full rehearsal with rhythm section and strings. What a blast! Please enjoy the track <em>My Home. </em>If you are in the area, I hope you'll consider joining us next Monday, October 5th. Free Admission.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/8c76b21f0cc4b12de60f6157fda3098402c56008/original/12002561-10153224082203121-4323081702702555936-o.jpg?1443505288" class="size_l justify_center border_" />4:54benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/36489732015-04-09T02:24:46-06:002017-01-15T20:38:55-07:00Andrew Stonerock Quintet - Pavlov's Waterfall Last summer I played on Andrew Stonerock's debut jazz recording. The album <i>Pavlov's Waterfall</i> features Andrew Stonerock - alto sax, Dan Jonas - trumpet and flugelhorn, Forest Greenough - bass, Ed Breazeale - drums and myself on piano. Andrew wrote several tunes for the date and was complemented by some tunes from Dan one from me. It's available on iTunes and CDBaby <a contents="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/theandrewstonerockquinte" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/theandrewstonerockquinte">http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/theandrewstonerockquinte</a> We hope you'll check it out!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/d7467749fe31c538b329ae566c28cce44ca63a49/original/pavlovs-waterfall-cover-art.jpg?1428567772" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/36364562015-04-01T19:03:26-06:002015-04-01T19:06:40-06:00Big Band Charts featuring Dr. Lonnie SmithIt was a real honor to have Dr. Lonnie Smith playing my arrangements with the Wyoming Jazz Ensemble. He dug them too! To listen to excerpts of the charts, click on the links below. Once I get the publication details worked out, I'll have them up for sale.<br><br><strong>Play It Back - Dr. Lonnie Smith - arr. Markley</strong><br><a contents="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/play-it-back" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/play-it-back" target="_blank">https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/play-it-back</a><br><br><strong>When We Kissed At Night - Dr. Lonnie Smith - arr. Markley</strong><br><a contents="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/when-we-kissed-at-night" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/when-we-kissed-at-night" target="_blank">https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/when-we-kissed-at-night</a><br><br><strong>Mellow Mood - Dr. Lonnie Smith - arr. Markley</strong><br><a contents="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/mellow-mood" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/mellow-mood" target="_blank">https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/mellow-mood</a><br><br><strong>Tropicalia - Beck - arr. Markley</strong><br><a contents="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/tropicalia" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/tropicalia">h</a><a contents="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/tropicalia" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/markley-music/tropicalia" target="_blank">ttps://soundcloud.com/markley-music/tropicalia</a><br><br><br> benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/36095882015-03-23T08:24:34-06:002017-01-15T20:38:55-07:00University of Wyoming Jazz Festival featuring Tierney Sutton and Dr. Lonnie SmithThis week the UW jazz festival will host approximately 600 middle and high school vocalists and instrumentalists from all over Wyoming. Our Thursday evening Concert (March 26) will feature the UW Vocal Jazz Ensemble opening for grammy nominated Tierney Sutton. On Friday (March 27) Scott Turpen Quintet will kick off the concert premiering new music from their CD "Dance of the West." Dr. Lonnie Smith will join the Wyoming Jazz Ensemble. They will be performing some of Dr. Lonnie's original compositions including <em>Play it Back</em> from <u>Live at Club Mozambique</u>. I had a blast arranging Dr. Lonnie's tunes for big band. The students are playing the music well and are looking forward to working with one of the "cats" from the this great music. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/ccfa06dbf5138744efecae261128c24214f33208/original/10985320-727741724006944-3001166384869976070-o.jpg?1426699101" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/35965942015-03-12T23:39:02-06:002017-01-15T20:38:55-07:002015 Guatemala Jazz FestivalThe 2015 Guatemala Jazz Festival off to a great start for <em>The American Jazz Collective. </em>The group comprised of Andrew Stonerock, Dan Jonas, Forest Greenough, Ryan Bell and myself played a concert to a full house in Xela tonight. More photos to come!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/3ea7ccf324f94de5495715c63be9989e718017a5/original/fullsizerender-2.jpg?1426225118" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/f813b2857e69102d2d37c5dbb464d41eed106628/original/fullsizerender-2.jpg?1426269739" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/b9c86a412cc786f151d519b6a9ded11a73bad470/original/fullsizerender-1.jpg?1426269736" class="size_l justify_center border_" /> <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/a7b0b5cccac1df465f58fee07384dbc177ac5eb3/original/fullsizerender.jpg?1426269739" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/a9c6d696044a6a834cf1ef110fa4e5deaffb7136/original/concert-pic.jpg?1426549397" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/35852492015-03-09T01:47:41-06:002020-04-22T14:38:26-06:00Scott Turpen Quintet - Dance of the West<p>Last December University of Wyoming Director of Jazz Studies Scott Turpen recorded his debut jazz album as a leader. He hired me to write all of the music for the project. This recording was a chance for me to explore some different styles and influences that ultimately led to a collection of material that was quite different that most of the stuff I've written in the past. It was a lot of fun to write these tunes with Scott's great soprano and tenor sax in mind as well as the rest of the band. Josh Quinlan (tenor sax), Matt Smiley (bass), and Ed Breazeale (drums) did a wonderful job of interpreting these tunes and helped to create some very lyrical and groovin' music. This record is scheduled to drop in the coming the weeks and will be available through iTunes and CD Baby. This band will be opening for Dr. Lonnie Smith at the UW Jazz Festival on Friday, March 27.<br><br>I've posted a track in the listening section of my site. It's called <em>Winds of the Snowys. </em>Take a listen and let us know what you think. We're very proud of it and hope you'll check it out!<br><br>Fantastic album artwork by Annie Booth and beautiful cover photo by Jennifer Turpen.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/58ade4fa809d9f8cc0410861646e3329380ffd5a/original/digital-distribution-photo.jpg?1425920330" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/35600532015-02-26T12:03:56-07:002017-01-15T20:38:54-07:002015 International Jazz Festival and Jazz Camp<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/977457618b23df9d500dab3a317cf61fbad73f8f/original/10898155-490028434462648-4468845756314214359-n.png?1424977027" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/8233efdd6fac6bc6420db3752ca488c21043362f/original/press-kit-jazz-camp-pics.jpg?1424977059" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>In a few weeks I'm headed to Guatemala to perform in the 2015 Guatemala International Jazz Festival. The band comprised of Andrew Stonerock, Dan Jonas, Forrest Greenough, Ryan Bell, and Jerome Fleg will stick around and work with students from UVG and IGA. This is our second year performing and working the camp and we're looking forward to being back.<br><br>Here's more info about our performances and the camp.<a contents="&nbsp;http://www.publinews.gt/espectaculos/anuncian-la-agenda-de-conciertos-del-15-festival-internacional-de-jazz-guatemala/Tetobx---Ist0Y0PZNLSM/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.publinews.gt/espectaculos/anuncian-la-agenda-de-conciertos-del-15-festival-internacional-de-jazz-guatemala/Tetobx---Ist0Y0PZNLSM/"> http://www.publinews.gt/espectaculos/anuncian-la-agenda-de-conciertos-del-15-festival-internacional-de-jazz-guatemala/Tetobx---Ist0Y0PZNLSM/</a>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/34928942015-01-28T21:33:12-07:002015-01-28T21:33:12-07:00Markley/Ashlock Kansas Public Radio SessionHey Folks,<br>Earlier this month Clint Ashlock and I recorded a studio performance on Kansas Public Radio with Bob McWilliams . We played music from our album The Return. It airs tomorrow night (Thursday, Jan 29 9:06pm) as well as Saturday Jan 31, at 2:06pm. You can also stream it during those times at <a contents="http://www.kansaspublicradio.org/widgets/live/player.php?stream=1" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.kansaspublicradio.org/widgets/live/player.php?stream=1">http://www.kansaspublicradio.org/widgets/live/player.php?stream=1</a>. We were joined by Gerald Spaits and Ed Breazeale on the session.<br><br>See YOU on the radio!benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/33925912014-12-12T14:10:15-07:002017-01-15T20:38:54-07:00Hazeltine method book now available. My book A PRACTICAL APPROACH TO JAZZ IMPROVISATION - THE DAVID HAZELTINE METHOD is now available through Jamey Aebersold jazz.<br><a contents="http://www.jazzbooks.com/jazz/product/PAJ#.VItYmKTF-5I" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.jazzbooks.com/jazz/product/PAJ#.VItYmKTF-5I">http://www.jazzbooks.com/jazz/product/PAJ#.VItYmKTF-5I</a><br><br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/988fa8986998886ae937203a053123ed79009e23/original/paj.jpg?1418418690" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/32473082014-11-02T14:47:08-07:002017-01-15T20:38:54-07:00Ben Markley/Clint Ashlock Quintet Album now available!Hi Folks,<br><br>Just wanted to let you know <em>The Return</em> (Ben Markley/Clint Ashlock Quintet album) is now available. We put a lot of time into this and hope you'll purchase a copy either directly from us or via cdbaby or iTunes. <a contents="http://cdbaby.com/cd/benmarkley1" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://cdbaby.com/cd/benmarkley1">http://cdbaby.com/cd/<wbr></wbr>benmarkley1</a> , <a contents="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-return/id933436026" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-return/id933436026">https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-return/id933436026</a><br><br>Please support us by purchasing a copy. Let us know if you like what we're up to. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/131732/5ec6f5b2691a0d10e8b97ae1fa815b9fc0fc2a83/original/4pan1t.jpg?1414100112" class="size_l justify_center border_" />benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/31899902014-09-16T15:57:04-06:002014-09-16T15:57:22-06:00Ben Markley charts available through UNC Jazz PressSome of my big band are now available through UNC Jazz Press. UNC Jazz Press has a tone of great charts for all kinds of groups and ability levels. Also be on the lookout in the coming months for some of my vocal jazz charts.<br><br><a contents="www.uncjazzpress.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.uncjazzpress.com">www.uncjazzpress.com</a>benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/31445082014-08-19T12:25:36-06:002014-08-19T12:31:49-06:00New Track from Upcoming Ashlock/Markley RecordingHey Folks, <br>I wanted to a share a cut from an upcoming release I'm doing with my friend Clint Ashlock . It features all original compositions from Clint and myself. If you like what you hear consider, taking a copy for spin when in comes out in late October. We're joined by Joshua Quinlan , Matt Smiley and Ed Breazeale .<br><br>Thanks!8:01benmarkleymusic.comtag:benmarkleymusic.com,2005:Post/30347072014-06-23T13:47:51-06:002014-06-23T13:47:51-06:00Big Band and Vocal Jazz ChartsI have a number of big band and vocal jazz charts available for purchase. You're able to buy and download directly from this site. I can provide live recordings or MIDI files for all charts.benmarkleymusic.com