I first heard his quartet in a club in Sausolito, CA back in the late 1960s. I remember Roy Haynes had a tympani drum included in his kit which he played with great enthusiasm.

I loved the music, but as a young teen with very limited ears, I struggled to comprehend what is was all about. However, I knew I wanted to play that music. Gary was my inspiration.

I had 2 of Gary's records in my possession at about that time, Duster, and Country Roads and Other Places. I especially liked General Mojo, Sweet Rain, the Ravel Prelude, and My Foolish Heart.

A little homage to Gary: some practice time today in one of the Berklee practice rooms running through one of the first tunes I learned from Gary. Forever grateful for Gary's instruction and support through the years. He had his birthday yesterday and he's feeling great and playing great!

Hi everybody,
I just founded this vidéo showing how to make a M55 work better, adressing the problems of the pedal, which is the weakest point of this instrument.
I thought it would be useful for many of us who own a M55.
Would love to read any comment from the specialists (Indianaglen...) about this video to know if the work done by this guy is worth to do on our own axes...

Just discovered via Dave Holland's Facebook page that today is Gary Burton's birthday. If you see this Gary, Happy Birthday and thank you for a lifetime of inspiration.

It's a beautiful composition by Jacques Ballue, the pianist of the 4tet I play with.
The guy broke his leg last week in a motorcycle accident. I wish him a prompt recovery by recording one of his tune. :o)

Hey Vibesworkshop
Over the summer I posted an article I wrote over the summer breaking down the techniques the pianist Dave Brubeck when playing his tune Strange Meadow Lark. Tony suggested that I post a perfomance of this tune but Up until this point I haven't had a decent recording of one of my performances. So attached is the Mp3.

Thanks
Frank Valente

This is a piece I've composed for vibes. I'm planing on arranging it for a small percussion ensemble. Hope you like it!

SUNDAY JAN. 22nd // Jazz Brunch at the legendary
BLUE NOTE // in NYC

CHRISTOS RAFALIDES TRIO
featuring:
Christos Rafalides - Vibraphone
Petros Klampanis - Bass
Mauricio Zottarelli - Drums

Showtime: 11:30AM and 1:30PM
Doors Open at 10:30AM

for tickets please visit:
http://www.bluenote.net/newyork/schedule/moreinfo.cgi?id=15003