Here is a quote from David Crosby about why having a good instrument makes such a difference. "You pick it up and it brings magic. It makes you want to play" #guitar #Davidcrosby #music #art

I just learned that Vandoren has come out with a new chamber size for their V16 Jazz Mouthpieces. From the Vandoren website: "• S+ : The new S+ chamber is the next step in the evolution of the V16 alto mouthpiece. It offers a richer depth of sound while keeping the free-blowing nature and projection that characterize the V16 alto models. The S+ chamber accommodates more air providing the musician greater flexibility and a wider array of colors with which to work. The S+

I highly recommend the Yamaha 221 Flute. Mine is a made in Japan model and I have been impressed with the quality of my flute for years! It is extremely reliable and sounds beautiful. For my needs, having a C foot flute has been perfect. I have never found the need to upgrade to a B foot or closed tone holes Unfortunately, Yamaha doesn't make the 221 model any more...The closest thing to this model is the new 222. While they are similar, I highly recommend the 221 becau

Samson Auro D210 I bought a great new PA speaker for multiple uses around my studio and performances. I originally got them as a way to produce high quality sound while playing live, mostly by running vocals through them using my Soundcraft EFX8 mixer. After spending a little time with this awesome speaker, I now am considering many uses for them including... playing electric guitar and bass at lessons because this speaker is extremely portable. It even has a nice carryi

Another one of my favorite harmonica players is Mickey Raphael. He is the harmonica player in Willie Nelson's Band and has had a long career performing and recording with many amazing artists such as Townes Van Zandt, Ray Charles, Elton John and so many more. I love the simplicity in his playing and the way his tone compliments Willie Nelsons on so many recordings from the 70's and onward. He also refrains from playing cliche blues riffs and often plays clear, concise,

Faber Gold Star 2B is one of my favorite piano songbooks. The tunes are great and easy to play. Kids love these catchy and quirky compositions! Big Wave Music School - Learn to Play Piano, Keyboard, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, and more Redondo Beach CA #Faber #Piano #music #sheetmusic #classical #rock #jazz

I recently got a new neck strap that I am thrilled about! The Yamaha Air Cell neck strap is a simple device that works great! I have always fluctuated between modern shoulder harness straps and conventional neck straps, but I found that the shoulder harness straps create more tension on the lower back. The reason for this is that shoulder harness straps don't provide the proper positioning for playing with good posture. I'm happy to report that with the Yamaha Air Cell Ne

I have recently been listening to a lot of music by guitarist Jerry Garcia from the Grateful Dead, and was unaware that he is missing the majority of his middle finger on his right hand! It is amazing that he could overcome this challenge and make amazing music throughout his life. He was a true melodic improviser, playing blues lines derived from simple motifs and minimalistic vocabulary. Along with the free form jazz influenced solos found throughout the bands' music, th

Here is a website with holiday events in Redondo Beach. There will be some great live music I'm sure! https://www.southbayevents.com/holiday-season-south-bay/ #southbay #redondobeach #Manhattanbeach #music #pier #holidays

It is always a thrill when modern rock bands incorporate saxophones and jazz influences into their music. I got the opportunity to perform at The Hi Hat with upcoming LA based rock band Laureline.  @laurelineband #music #jazz #saxophone #live #hihat