Phil Woods was my first hero. I heard a recording of his when I was 16, and had that magic moment where I realized, “Now that’s why I’m playing this instrument!” I followed him around NYC to hear him and ask for lessons. But he told me he wasn’t teaching. So I pestered him over several […]

One of the great joys about having a life in jazz is watching people you know and care about grow and make important contributions to this music. The Mike LeDonne Quartet, this year’s season opener of the Izzy Asper Jazz Performances, is a convergence of four musicians whose paths have connected with mine over the […]

On January 24, the Youth Jazz Collective had its first rehearsal, and we got off to an excellent start! I’m taking over from Professor Derrick Gardner this year, and I’m looking forward to working with this talented group of kids from high schools across the city. They are hungry to learn and excited about continuing […]