Change of Address!

Return to Sender?

I started this blog while living in the state of West Virginia, where I have been directing the jazz program for the state flagship university. I have seen tremendous success here both in building a program and with the students’ abilities to do great things.

My work was profiled in this January 2024 DownBeat magazine article that highlights everything that has been happening. Additionally, I have students that have won DownBeat student awards in both 2023 and 2024.

As a result of low enrollment, questionable administrative leadership, and a “budget crisis,” the jazz degrees were canceled and my position was eliminated. I interviewed for several positions and have chosen to return to Massachusetts.

My 2017 album Change of Address celebrated my move away from Boston. Perhaps my next album will be entitled “Return to Sender” as I return back to New England.

I will soon begin as the Director of Jazz at Milton Academy—this will be the 51st year of the jazz program in this institution, which was founded in 1798. There is no question about the importance of the arts in this robust program. I am very much looking forward to returning to New England, which brings opportunities to collaborate with immensely talented musicians in front of a supportive audience.

I anticipate that I will continue to balance a career in jazz education with a career as a jazz (and beyond) performer.

Thus, The (Red) State of Jazz is now: The (Blue) State of Jazz!