.

for a musician to evolve into an authentic storyteller , learning vocabulary and developing craft is only the beginning

.  .  .

artistic mastery must be attained through time and experience ; and even this is but a prerequisite to potentiate the practitioner for the journey of discovery within

just as the poet alchemizes life lessons and summons words which reveal wisdom , musicians possess the ability to transform feelings into sonic narrative

musical messages , when conveyed with clarity , purpose , and love , may become beacons of light to those who are receptive

.  .  .

indeed , musical heroes :

louis armstrong , count basie , charlie parker , thelonius monk , rhythmists max and roy / tito and mongo personified spiritual virtues through their artistry

and mentors :

carmen leggio , dewey redman , sheila jordan , kenny barron , and tom harrell taught me that talent is to be utilized not only for entertainment , but to effectuate a higher purpose ...

to awaken , uplift , and enrich the human spirit in such manner that provokes us to recognize the divine in ourselves and each other

may we always seek what these masters chose to seek

SUNNYSIDE RECORDS PRESENTS :