Working on your transcriptions?  Transcribe! by Seventhstring can give you the help you need.  This handy software will allow you to import files, you can mark beats, measures and sections using keyboard commands.  You can slow down (or speed up) on the fly, to ensure you really get into the "money notes".  A great investment  for your musical growth.

SeventhString also offers tips for getting started with transcribing, and a fakebook index.  Enjoy!

Many years ago, a friend introduced me to the Tom Kubis Big Band Christmas album.  This album has become the first Christmas music I listen to every year.  I can't get enough!  For your listening pleasure, here is A Jazz Musicians Christmas, featuring the vocal stylings of the late great Jack Sheldon.

Ode to a Tenor Titan: The Life and Times and Music of Michael Brecker
The one and only... we lost him way to soon, but his story and legacy lives on.  Thank you @BillMilkowski, for your work on this.

I got to meet Bill, briefly, while visiting NYC.  Traveling with my husband, we were at Smoke, on the upper east side.  Bill walked in - we had a great conversation about Milwaukee (hometown for all of us) jazz, UWM and life in general.

This book is available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble, hardcover or digital.

Great band out of London.  I love the use of space, the tone quality and the groove.  And the diverse representation.  Enjoy.....


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Want a great reference for your long tone practice?  Consider adding a drone to your routine.  Practice drones offer you a reference chord, so you can focus on what you are doing with your embouchure.  You will hear improvement to your tone and intonation faster than you can imagine.  There are many online resources - I use The Fiddlerman.  Give it a try!

Bari Sax feature with the All Star Superband. Bill Holman, Composer.

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Those who know me know that I am passionate about music.  While my playing and participation in music has ebbed and flowed in my adult years, my passion for the music has never waned.  As I mature, one area that fascinates me is research involving music and brain function.  Which led me to the audio book Musicophlia, by Oliver Sacks, MD.  Stop back in the near future for my take on this fascinating subject.

My research and reading led me to a great article from How to Practice Jazz.  The traits listed really apply to life! Here it is: 9 Traits of Monster Jazz Musicians.

I started listening to Karolina Strassmayer when she played lead alto on the DIVA band.  Definitely a favorite of mine, I love her style, her musicianship and her passion for the music.  Enjoy this interview, from the London Jazz News.

The use of advanced scales in improvisation has always fascinated me, but has also been elusive.  After reading, transcribing and practicing, I have finally made some headway!  Thanks to John Coltrane and Learn Jazz Standards for the help!  Time to go to the practice room, to build a healthy relationship with Diminished Scales!