The following video shows how to learn and plug-in a jazz lick that outlines V7 resolving to I. With no trumpet lessons taking place due to the coronavirus outbreak, my son and I have been doing these kinds of jazz exercises during our daily practice time together. Here’s the lick, written out in twelve keys. …

As a big band arranger, writing drum parts is one of the harder tasks you will encounter. So, watch this instructional video to see: what to include in a big band drum part, and how to enter it into Finale music notation software. This video was made for my jazz arranging class students, after transitioning…

Portrait of Jennie, a beautiful ballad written for the 1948 film by the same name, has been recorded by some of the most recognized trumpeters in jazz. Blue Mitchell, Clifford Brown, Freddie Hubbard and Donald Byrd all have recorded versions. The piece was therefore a natural choice when I was looking for a ballad for my…

The process of collaborating with a visual artist and using non-musical stimulus led to the creation of this distinctive musical composition, "Cirrus."

A transcription and break down of Miles Davis' solo on the Sonny Rollins tune, "Doxy," recorded in 1954 on the "Bags' Groove" album.

When the local Episcopalian priest asked me to do a podcast interview, he may have gotten more than he bargained for. His show is called “Crossroads — where faith and every day life converge.” Guests are asked to share how their faith shapes and impacts their lives. This topic was right up my alley. Over…