Vibraphone

It's Dana's Birthday! Besides being a great player Dana has incredible energy and is a real team player. I love having him on the site!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANA!!

This is an effective 4 mallet exercise that I’ve been using for years. I do the exercise at the beginning of my practice time and often before a gig or concert. I think it helps to condition your hands and fingers by building some strength, flexibility, and endurance.

For me John Lewis was one of those pianists whom sometimes I thought, man can this guy play or not. His minimalist approach is a little confusing sometimes for me.

But, check him out playing Django here. Beautiful harmonies and some of the rhythmic stuff on his solo is really cool.

I have to remember that he played with Dizzy, so no way was he a slouch. Anyone get what I'm saying? It seemed like Milt was that cat in MJQ that sparked all the fires. Or so I think.

Video is not that great but man Bags swings so hard!

Guys,

I just got a mail today from Philippe Briand. For those who don't know him yet "Philippe" is a first hour subscriber and among our dear "young veterans". After decades of great jazz drum playing with the greatest, he started vibes over his 40's but has worked hard on it and become a fine player, member, and friend from my side.

I don't think this was already posted.....

Listen to the masters! Bobby and Joe do some great stair climbing patterns here!