Available to book from POA. For an accurate quote please make an enquiry.
I am trained in classical and jazz piano, beginning at age 5. I was first introduced to jazz through Vince Guaraldi and Super Mario Brothers and immediately fell in love with the music. I completed a study of piano and music theory at age 16 and performed Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue in concert. I subsequently studied jazz theory and history privately under Wade Beach, a multi-year leader of the Airmen of Note and professor at George Mason University (GMU). I then studied jazz combos for several years at the Levine School of Music in Washington, DC, under the direction of Paul Bratcher. I ultimately graduated from George Mason University (GMU) with a minor in Jazz Studies. As a student, I performed in various GMU combos, including the Traditional Jazz Ensemble, which performs in the early styles of jazz, and in particular, New Orleans jazz.
I am familiar with and trained in all styles of jazz. I play styles spanning stride, ragtime, bop, traditional jazz, boogie, blues, and funk. I am comfortable with many other styles of music as well and has even played fills and solos on rock recordings.
= areas covered (up to 35 miles)
= free travel (up to 20 miles)
If playing my electronic pianos, I require a performance space of at least 4 feet by 4 feet and electric power. Alternatively, I can play a recently tuned and in good working order acoustic piano. I require 1 parking space.
I need the address of the venue and information on where to load in my equipment and where to park. I also need to know of any venue-specific constraints, such as "must be out by" times. I require contact info for the venue management so I can coordinate with the staff to ensure smooth operations.
No. I only bring an amplifier as part of my electronic piano gear. If playing an acoustic piano, I do not bring any equipment.
I performed as the Phantom of the Opera at the live action Clifton Haunted Trail. This was a super fun event where people walked through Halloween scenes, and it allowed me to have direct interaction with the guests. While I don't know that this was the best gig, it was certainly the most unique and memorable!
I love gigs where I can play off the audience to enhance their experience. I really enjoy seeing people have a great time.
I come from a musical family and am trained in jazz piano. I studied jazz at George Mason University (GMU) and performed in various GMU combos. Prior to that, I gigged at local restaurants, cafes, and festivals in small combos. I regularly played with the Saturday morning market players, a blues/funk band in Manassas, VA. I currently play in the Moondust Big Band and Rocket City Jazz Orchestra in Huntsville, Alabama.
Some of my favorite artists and composers include Oscar Peterson, John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, Fats Waller, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Dr. John, Professor Longhair, Scott Joplin, Vince Guaraldi, Chick Corea, Keith Emerson, and Herbie Hancock. I enjoy analyzing the styles of the jazz greats and finding new ways to combine their techniques.
If I bring my own equipment, it will take me 30-45 minutes to load in and set up. I am flexible on set duration and can work around your event schedule and will build my breaks in.
Yes, weather permitting. I used to play on Saturday mornings at the local farmer's market, so I am accustomed to playing outdoors. I ask for shade, a dry, level surface, and a power supply in the performance area.
I can play most of the old standards. Let me know what kind of jazz you like and a few sample songs. I can work out a set around that info. I both read music and play by ear, so I learn new songs quickly. Feel free to inquire if you have a specific song in mind.
Friends of the Library at Fort Book
The Huntsville Botanical Garden
Bella Cafe, Stafford VA
Clifton Haunted Trail (as Phantom of the Opera)
George Mason University Harris Theater
Clarendon Day North Highland Main Stage
Old Town Manassas Farmer's Market
Downtown Huntsville Library
Huntsville Botanical Garden Grand Hall
Wedding
Birthday Party
Private Event
Corporate Event
Hotel / Restaurant Event
Bar / Venue Event
Wedding Proposal
Concert
Recording Session
Christmas Party
New Year's Eve
1940s Music
1950s Music
1960s Music
1970s Music
1980s Music
1990s Music
2000s+ Music
Rockabilly
Jazz
Blues
Dixieland / Ragtime
Latin Jazz
Postmodern Jukebox Jazz
Swing
Christmas
Background Music
Pop
Covers
Funk
Motown
R&B
Soul
Rock
Britpop
Classic Rock
Rock 'n' Roll
Alternative Rock
Instrumental