Jazz Composer, Arranger, Pianist, and Educator - Earl MacDonald
Earl MacDonald is a composer, arranger, pianist and educator specializing in jazz. Originally from Canada, the former musical director for Maynard Ferguson is now based in Connecticut, halfway between Boston and NYC. Here you can find out about Earl’s new music, performances, teaching, and latest projects. Visit Earl’s blog, download MP3s, buy CDs, read reviews, or take a free online lesson. Enjoy and please stay tuned!
The Latest News
The Latest News
Earl plans to write a substantial amount of music this summer in preparation for a recording with his 10-piece band, “the New Directions Ensemble”. The group will perform in Hartford on August 13th, as part of the Monday Night Jazz in Bushnell Park series, and at Mansfield’s Festival on the Green in September. Other commissioned writing projects include a series of big band arrangements for Canadian jazz drummer, Tyler Hornby.
During May and June, Earl has undertaken a blogging challenge where he is chronicling his piano practicing as he goes about learning some of John Coltrane's most challenging tunes. You can read his posts at http://everupandonward.blogspot.com/.
In July, Earl plans to sharpen his skills on the drum set by taking lessons with jazz drummer, Ben Bilello. In August, Earl will be an artist-in-residence at the Kincardine Summer Music Festival in Canada.
When not writing, practicing and performing music, Earl can be found in skateboard parks throughout Connecticut, practicing “ollies” and other dangerous tricks with his son. Don’t worry --- he wears wrist guards and a helmet.
