Untitled Document

February 2012

Back in the studio

There's nothing like the blank slate. It is the most inspiring creative moment for me. It is the payoff for the independent artist. When one can sit down and put down exactly what is on the mind and in the heart--there is no greater artistic freedom. Without filter, without interference, without consult, a natural occurrence as it ought to be.

I must admit, so far it looks like i'm going to have a real mixed bag of ideas on the upcoming record. Right from the start a funky Crusaders type groove fell out of the guitar. I also navigated through some more ambience based tunes which will be new for me. Lastly there will be a couple revisited tunes from the past. I hope to have more updates soon on the progress.

I've also been hard at work laying guitar parts for a very unique upcoming record that will feature 25 artists called Grooveatech. This has been a real thrill and i had the chance to play some more rock/pop guitar parts on this record. Expected release is 2012.

All the best,
Matt

May 2011

Urban Folktales
Hello Friends, sorry for the delay in this segment of the site.

For the first time in my musical journey, I decided to put out a record based on a concept. In the past, all my records have jumped from place to place and style to style, usually offering something for everyone. However, on the latest release, I decided to stick to one theme from start to finish. I was uncertain about how it might be received from folks who may have gotten use to my normal approach. Well, I'm happy to say that the feedback has been the best yet in my career. Thanks for all the kind words and reassurance.

The theme is the late night sound. Part jazz, part R&B, part atmosphere, part Neo-Soul, part just whatever you may want to call or label it. George Benson's "Give me the Night," Teddy Pendergrass' "Love TKO," Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite record, Jill Scott's "Give it to Me," and Anthony Hamiltons "Can't Let Go" were all very influential R&B tunes and records that have inspired me. There is a certain soulful and enigmatic quality to this sub genre--the urban experience defined musically.

Some of the songs are very harmonically sparse. Not much movement chord-wise. The focus was rather on the dynamics and production and overall vibe. We wanted a record that signified that all the work of the day was done, and it was time to just let the music breathe for a bit. Tempos were down, fender rhodes were chiming, and the Wah Wah guitar takes front stage in the lead guitar. We were not worried about putting out a smooth jazz anthem, rather stories or folktales of the Urban kind.

We hope you enjoy the new record.
Matt

November 2010

So Thankful
It has been a truly wonderful year. I am very thankful for all the radio stations who embraced our record Family Funktion. Both traditional and Internet stations have been so kind to us in helping "Family Funktion" be heard. We appreciate all the promoters, clubs, stations, festivals who invited us to perform this year. It means so much to have had these opportunities, we certainly value that. We are grateful for all of our friends, listeners, fans who came out to support our live shows. To spend hard earned money, give time, and to travel to see us means everything to us. Without you we are playing to seats. We express deep gratitude to the whole community for making 2010 a very memorable year!

October 2010

"Call me Dad"
Hello Folks,

Sorry for the long delay in updating this portion of the website. Six months ago, my wife Dionne and I welcomed into the world our daughter Madison Leigh. We have been blessed with a beautiful joyful soul who has been teaching us a lot about life and parenthood. Her smile, laugh, and everlasting happiness makes each day precious. I'm very thankful for all of our friends, fans who have showed such incredible care and support. We thank you for your warm wishes, gifts, and prayers.

Luckily, as we pleaded with while still in Mom's tummy, she showed up before the Berks Jazz Festival and Seabreeze Jazz Festival. I owe her for that already. She has great timing. On the night of the Berks Fest after I finished my show I woke up at 3am and simply could not be away from her any longer. I jumped in the truck and drove the 3 hour drive back to NY. It was a great feeling to be home with the new family. Berks was one of the most exciting shows I've ever been a part of. I honestly can say the notes meant something totally different to me now being a father. It's a truly remarkable thing. Thanks John Ernesto for having us.

After many bottles and diaper changes, and very little sleep, I headed on down the Seabreeze Jazz Fest. This was my 3rd year in a row, and each year it gets more amazing. The first night while everyone was ready to go out and party, I fell asleep in the condo in a chair. 12 hours later I was greeted with the beautiful Florida morning sun. I had not been that rested in a long time. Please don't tell my wife. I told her I caught a little nap on the plane. What a show. The Late Night after party was a thrill, and the Groove Project show with Gerald Veasley, Alex Bugnon, Shilts, and C-Man was unforgettable. There is a great clip on You Tube. It was amazing to have a chance to perform with artists who i've admired for years. I bought their CDs for years, and now I was on stage with them. Thanks to the Carter's and Seabreeze for a perfect time!

In July, we were very brave, and drove with Madison, my bass player Kenny Harris, and our boss Steve Butler down to the Potomac Jazz Fest. This was the first road trip with family and extended musical family. We made it down there with a few emergency pit stops. Mostly coffee and food for the grownups. We were greeted by the most unfriendly hotel clerk ever after a long drive. I tried to tell her jokes and make her smile. But that just did not work. Perhaps she had a rough day. We did impersonate her for the rest of the drive. Once we made it down the next day to Colton's Point, the long trip proved to be totally worth it. Kim Cullins and the Potamac Jazz Fest have the best gem of a festival. After our set we had a chance to sit with Madison on the rocks overlooking the picturesque Maryland seascape. It was our first family trip and I could not have asked for a better time. A great audience, unbelievable support, great staff, and to have family along just made it complete. Thanks to Kim and the crew. It was our first family trip, and Madison will hear about it forever.

Well, that's the update. I thank you for reading. We are heading out to the Bahamas for the Groove Jazz Cruise. Yes, the family has decided to join me again. If you see me at the airport, i'll be the guy with the guitar on one shoulder and the stroller on the other and the elmo doll under my arm. It's my new look.

Peace and Joy,
Matt

March 2010

Two Cool Kids
Performing for schools, youth groups, and just trying to give somebody an opportunity to shine have been big beliefs of mine. To want for someone else the same things you wish for yourself have been a philosophy i've tried to live by. There is a magic that is created when folks lend a hand to those trying to move ahead. I can speak personally about this in my own life. There have been so many amazing people who have gone out of their way to give me a shot and extend a hand where the could have decided not to. One moment in particular comes to mind. I clearly remember 2 years ago Nick Colionne giving me the stage without warning at the Seabreeze Jazz Fest Jam in 2008. A fellow guitarist creating community over competition. That instance has had a profound effect upon me.

In November of last year we had a great opportunity to perform for WGRV's Smooth Jazz Cruise to the Bahamas. What a thrill! Much to our surprise, there were two kids aboard the jazz cruise. Omar and Hannah were their names, and to our surprise this brother and sister combo were great piano players who were very talented. We invited them to play during sound check, and it struck me to invite them on stage as a surprise in the show. They were the highlight of the show! Both performing original pieces and bringing many tears and smiles. What amazing children! Thank you Hannah and Omar.

January 2010

Great Soul (the story)
While recording the Family Funktion I had the urge to take the listener to another part of the world in a jazz context. I wanted to record a song that was fresh and not done before. I love my funk, r&b grooves for sure, but as an artist I am starting to also look to my responsibility to challenge the parameters of this style. My inspiration was to perhaps take the listener much in the same way Paul Simon took his listeners to South Africa. But where to go? Where to visit? I wanted to put forth a piece of music that was truly unique to the jazz and guitar genres.

One night after watching the movie "Slum Dog Millionaire" it occurred to me that India would be the place to travel to. To blend the traditional instruments and the contemporary Bollywood flavor would be the artistic destination. I collaborated with my brother Chris Marshak on drums and we began the recording. After much trial and error and experimenting, we had a tune and a sound we thought embodied the essence of India in a contemporary jazz context. We brought in bassist Carl Carter, Vocalist and instrumentalist Mike Dimeo, and finished up the tune. At the end of the recording, my brother urged me to visit grammy award mixer Ben Wisch here in NYC. I gave in, and we invested in this wonderful set of ears. I'm delighted to present to you: Great Soul.

Happy New Year,
MM

December 2009

Taking a chance
Hello Guys and Gals,

We are getting ready to think of a new single for the new year. We are looking to most likely release "Great Soul." This song really is a unique blend of jazz, bollywood (Indian), rock, and pop music. I was lucky to have my brother Chris Marshak produce and assist me on this song. The end result was something that is really fresh and what I think of as positively different. We had a cast of unique musicians on the track, and had NYC mix master Ben Wisch on board.

I believe instrumental music and "smooth jazz" is at a crossroads. I am getting ready to put out this single as my response to the current state of affairs. So many stations have closed their doors, and there is a lot of discussion of "what?" and "why?" it's all happening. Instead of writing words to talk about what I think is wrong, I decided to release a song that I think brings new energy and a new sound to this format.

Great Soul is my contribution to trying to bring about some new sounds and directions. I hope you enjoy it!

Peace and Joy,
Matt Marshak

November 2009

A Backyard Party To Remember
This last July, as our new cd was about to be released, I got a call from 2 of my dearest friends and fans in Atlanta, GA. Will and Maggie Shares. They asked me if they could host the "Family Funktion" cd release party at their home in Atlanta. I was so honored, surprised, and excited. We were about to plan for a party, and our wish was granted. It was one of the most memorable moments in my life.

Jazz has some of the most friendly, warm, and caring people within it's musical walls. The Shares' are certainly all that! They ended up selling over 200 tickets, cooked delicious food, and had some fine drinks as well. Every detail was taken care of, the band was put up in a nice hotel, and our great friend Tony Clarke and Avitar took care of all the sound. We were so touched with the amount of time and energy they put in for us. It was simply unforgettable!

Here are some photos:

Thank You Will and Maggie!

MM and Band

September 2009

CD 101.9
I grew up in eastern Long Island about 1.5 hrs east of New York City. Rock n' Roll dominated the airwaves in New York in the 70's and 80's. However, in 1988 or so I can remember the first time I heard a fresh station playing artists like David Sanborn, George Benson, Larry Carlton, Richard Elliot. The station was WQCD 101.9. I can remember going to my first smooth/contemporary jazz concert in 1989 on a weeknight at the Westbury Music Fair. Hosted by Deborah Rath, we enjoyed the Rippingtons, Richard Elliot and Larry Carlton. It was a packed house and it was an influential moment for me. I was inspired by this great style and this great station hosting and putting on this event. I picked up the guitar at this very same time, and this station was my education and source for good music.

About 10 years later, I was honored to have won a contest by CD101.9 looking for the best new artist in NYC. They had me open up a show in Bryant Park NYC for Guitars and Saxes, and started playing my music on air. It was a dream come true. The station that had given me inspiration was now playing my songs. I couldn't believe it. A few years later Robin Marshall Blake Lawrence from CD101.9 helped me nationally with my tune "Wind Chill Factor." This station was a huge part of my upringing and helped me get started as a guitarist in jazz. I am very thankful for these times and opportunities.

But enough about me. I write today because we all know that about 1 year ago this station went off the air and is now a rock station. Since that day, I've met countless folks who have expressed their loss with this station disappearing. At a recent show in NY, I asked the crowd if they remembered cd101.9, and the groan and weeps were as if we had recalled a respected loved one who had passed on. This station was such a huge part of the culture and lifestyle of so many people. And still is in memory. We still can't believe that this huge city and metropolitan area does not have a contemporary/smooth jazz station?

I'm not sure if the owners of the station really know how this has impacted so many listeners and lovers of this format. There is no replacement for the local voice who brings you through your day exploring great vibrant music. It no longer exists in NY.

I'm also heartbroken that the new artist out there exploring jazz won't have a chance to emerge on this station. The curious teenager may not have that influential listening moment anymore. It has so many effects upon culture, the jazz scene, and music in general for New York.

It's unfortunate that this great station no longer can be heard. So many jazz fans in NYC, NJ, Long Island, Connecticut have asked me what happened? Why is there no more cd101.9? All I can suggest is that you write to Emmis Communications and express your feelings. Perhaps if they hear from you, they may reconsider this decision?

Here's the good news—you can find so many online and satellite stations to enjoy good music!

All the best,
MM

May 2009

Long Island Vineyards and an emerging Jazz scene
There is buzz happening right in my own backyard. That buzz is the Wine of Long Island, NY. Just 1.5 hours outside of the capital of the world (NYC), there are beautiful fields, farms, a taste of the past, and a blossoming vineyard scene producing some amazing wines. WWW.Liwines.com gives you an idea of the size of this scene. It's not just a couple of vineyards. Some of my favorite discoveries this last year have been Bedell and Corey Creek, along with Peconic Bay Winery. However there are so many great names,that you can spend weeks visiting them all on the east end of Long Island.

What's even more exciting is the interest in Jazz that is emerging at the vineyards. The East End Arts Council, headed by Pat Snyder, along with the Long Island Wine Council have put forth a great jazz festival that runs for over 1 month called "Winterfest."(www.liwinterfest.com) National and local Long Island artists bring a wide variety of jazz from latin, funk, smooth, to straight ahead and blues. All three shows we were fortunate to perform out were jam packed. Other artists last year included Paul Simon bassist Bakithi Kumalo, Erikah Badu flautist Dwayne Kerr, along with many other great performers.

I must say that we are very excited about this new scene. If you plan on being in New York City, or Long Island, it's truly worth the time to head out East to Long Island's North Fork. Not only will the quaint little towns of Mattituck, Laurel, Riverhead, Cutchogue give you a comforting feel for the past, but the Wine and an emerging Jazz scene will also make you smile. July 5th and August 15th we make stops at Bedell and Laurel Lake Vineyards.

Enjoy the summer!
MM


		February 2012 Back in the studio There's nothing like the blank slate. It is the most inspiring creative moment for me. It is the payoff for the independent artist. When one can sit down and put down exactly what is on the mind and in the heart--there is no greater artistic freedom. Without filter, without interference, without consult, a natural occurrence as it ought to be. I must admit, so far it looks like i'm going to have a real mixed bag of ideas on the upcoming record. Right from the start a funky Crusaders type groove fell out of the guitar. I also navigated through some more ambience based tunes which will be new for me. Lastly there will be a couple revisited tunes from the past. I hope to have more updates soon on the progress. I've also been hard at work laying guitar parts for a very unique upcoming record that will feature 25 artists called Grooveatech. This has been a real thrill and i had the chance to play some more rock/pop guitar parts on this record. Expected release is 2012. All the best, Matt May 2011 Urban Folktales Hello Friends, sorry for the delay in this segment of the site. For the first time in my musical journey, I decided to put out a record based on a concept. In the past, all my records have jumped from place to place and style to style, usually offering something for everyone. However, on the latest release, I decided to stick to one theme from start to finish. I was uncertain about how it might be received from folks who may have gotten use to my normal approach. Well, I'm happy to say that the feedback has been the best yet in my career. Thanks for all the kind words and reassurance. The theme is the late night sound. Part jazz, part R&B, part atmosphere, part Neo-Soul, part just whatever you may want to call or label it. George Benson's "Give me the Night," Teddy Pendergrass' "Love TKO," Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite record, Jill Scott's "Give it to Me," and Anthony Hamiltons "Can't Let Go" were all very influential R&B tunes and records that have inspired me. There is a certain soulful and enigmatic quality to this sub genre--the urban experience defined musically. Some of the songs are very harmonically sparse. Not much movement chord-wise. The focus was rather on the dynamics and production and overall vibe. We wanted a record that signified that all the work of the day was done, and it was time to just let the music breathe for a bit. Tempos were down, fender rhodes were chiming, and the Wah Wah guitar takes front stage in the lead guitar. We were not worried about putting out a smooth jazz anthem, rather stories or folktales of the Urban kind. We hope you enjoy the new record. Matt November 2010 So Thankful It has been a truly wonderful year. I am very thankful for all the radio stations who embraced our record Family Funktion. Both traditional and Internet stations have been so kind to us in helping "Family Funktion" be heard. We appreciate all the promoters, clubs, stations, festivals who invited us to perform this year. It means so much to have had these opportunities, we certainly value that. We are grateful for all of our friends, listeners, fans who came out to support our live shows. To spend hard earned money, give time, and to travel to see us means everything to us. Without you we are playing to seats. We express deep gratitude to the whole community for making 2010 a very memorable year! October 2010 "Call me Dad" Hello Folks, Sorry for the long delay in updating this portion of the website. Six months ago, my wife Dionne and I welcomed into the world our daughter Madison Leigh. We have been blessed with a beautiful joyful soul who has been teaching us a lot about life and parenthood. Her smile, laugh, and everlasting happiness makes each day precious. I'm very thankful for all of our friends, fans who have showed such incredible care and support. We thank you for your warm wishes, gifts, and prayers. Luckily, as we pleaded with while still in Mom's tummy, she showed up before the Berks Jazz Festival and Seabreeze Jazz Festival. I owe her for that already. She has great timing. On the night of the Berks Fest after I finished my show I woke up at 3am and simply could not be away from her any longer. I jumped in the truck and drove the 3 hour drive back to NY. It was a great feeling to be home with the new family. Berks was one of the most exciting shows I've ever been a part of. I honestly can say the notes meant something totally different to me now being a father. It's a truly remarkable thing. Thanks John Ernesto for having us. After many bottles and diaper changes, and very little sleep, I headed on down the Seabreeze Jazz Fest. This was my 3rd year in a row, and each year it gets more amazing. The first night while everyone was ready to go out and party, I fell asleep in the condo in a chair. 12 hours later I was greeted with the beautiful Florida morning sun. I had not been that rested in a long time. Please don't tell my wife. I told her I caught a little nap on the plane. What a show. The Late Night after party was a thrill, and the Groove Project show with Gerald Veasley, Alex Bugnon, Shilts, and C-Man was unforgettable. There is a great clip on You Tube. It was amazing to have a chance to perform with artists who i've admired for years. I bought their CDs for years, and now I was on stage with them. Thanks to the Carter's and Seabreeze for a perfect time! In July, we were very brave, and drove with Madison, my bass player Kenny Harris, and our boss Steve Butler down to the Potomac Jazz Fest. This was the first road trip with family and extended musical family. We made it down there with a few emergency pit stops. Mostly coffee and food for the grownups. We were greeted by the most unfriendly hotel clerk ever after a long drive. I tried to tell her jokes and make her smile. But that just did not work. Perhaps she had a rough day. We did impersonate her for the rest of the drive. Once we made it down the next day to Colton's Point, the long trip proved to be totally worth it. Kim Cullins and the Potamac Jazz Fest have the best gem of a festival. After our set we had a chance to sit with Madison on the rocks overlooking the picturesque Maryland seascape. It was our first family trip and I could not have asked for a better time. A great audience, unbelievable support, great staff, and to have family along just made it complete. Thanks to Kim and the crew. It was our first family trip, and Madison will hear about it forever. Well, that's the update. I thank you for reading. We are heading out to the Bahamas for the Groove Jazz Cruise. Yes, the family has decided to join me again. If you see me at the airport, i'll be the guy with the guitar on one shoulder and the stroller on the other and the elmo doll under my arm. It's my new look. Peace and Joy, Matt March 2010 Two Cool Kids Performing for schools, youth groups, and just trying to give somebody an opportunity to shine have been big beliefs of mine. To want for someone else the same things you wish for yourself have been a philosophy i've tried to live by. There is a magic that is created when folks lend a hand to those trying to move ahead. I can speak personally about this in my own life. There have been so many amazing people who have gone out of their way to give me a shot and extend a hand where the could have decided not to. One moment in particular comes to mind. I clearly remember 2 years ago Nick Colionne giving me the stage without warning at the Seabreeze Jazz Fest Jam in 2008. A fellow guitarist creating community over competition. That instance has had a profound effect upon me. In November of last year we had a great opportunity to perform for WGRV's Smooth Jazz Cruise to the Bahamas. What a thrill! Much to our surprise, there were two kids aboard the jazz cruise. Omar and Hannah were their names, and to our surprise this brother and sister combo were great piano players who were very talented. We invited them to play during sound check, and it struck me to invite them on stage as a surprise in the show. They were the highlight of the show! Both performing original pieces and bringing many tears and smiles. What amazing children! Thank you Hannah and Omar. January 2010 Great Soul (the story) While recording the *Family Funktion* I had the urge to take the listener to another part of the world in a jazz context. I wanted to record a song that was fresh and not done before. I love my funk, r&b grooves for sure, but as an artist I am starting to also look to my responsibility to challenge the parameters of this style. My inspiration was to perhaps take the listener much in the same way Paul Simon took his listeners to South Africa. But where to go? Where to visit? I wanted to put forth a piece of music that was truly unique to the jazz and guitar genres. One night after watching the movie "Slum Dog Millionaire" it occurred to me that India would be the place to travel to. To blend the traditional instruments and the contemporary Bollywood flavor would be the artistic destination. I collaborated with my brother Chris Marshak on drums and we began the recording. After much trial and error and experimenting, we had a tune and a sound we thought embodied the essence of India in a contemporary jazz context. We brought in bassist Carl Carter, Vocalist and instrumentalist Mike Dimeo, and finished up the tune. At the end of the recording, my brother urged me to visit grammy award mixer Ben Wisch here in NYC. I gave in, and we invested in this wonderful set of ears. I'm delighted to present to you: Great Soul. Happy New Year, MM December 2009 Taking a chance Hello Guys and Gals, We are getting ready to think of a new single for the new year. We are looking to most likely release "Great Soul." This song really is a unique blend of jazz, bollywood (Indian), rock, and pop music. I was lucky to have my brother Chris Marshak produce and assist me on this song. The end result was something that is really fresh and what I think of as positively different. We had a cast of unique musicians on the track, and had NYC mix master Ben Wisch on board. I believe instrumental music and "smooth jazz" is at a crossroads. I am getting ready to put out this single as my response to the current state of affairs. So many stations have closed their doors, and there is a lot of discussion of "what?" and "why?" it's all happening. Instead of writing words to talk about what I think is wrong, I decided to release a song that I think brings new energy and a new sound to this format. Great Soul is my contribution to trying to bring about some new sounds and directions. I hope you enjoy it! Peace and Joy, Matt Marshak November 2009 A Backyard Party To Remember This last July, as our new cd was about to be released, I got a call from 2 of my dearest friends and fans in Atlanta, GA. Will and Maggie Shares. They asked me if they could host the "Family Funktion" cd release party at their home in Atlanta. I was so honored, surprised, and excited. We were about to plan for a party, and our wish was granted. It was one of the most memorable moments in my life. Jazz has some of the most friendly, warm, and caring people within it's musical walls. The Shares' are certainly all that! They ended up selling over 200 tickets, cooked delicious food, and had some fine drinks as well. Every detail was taken care of, the band was put up in a nice hotel, and our great friend Tony Clarke and Avitar took care of all the sound. We were so touched with the amount of time and energy they put in for us. It was simply unforgettable! Here are some photos: Thank You Will and Maggie! MM and Band September 2009 CD 101.9 I grew up in eastern Long Island about 1.5 hrs east of New York City. Rock n' Roll dominated the airwaves in New York in the 70's and 80's. However, in 1988 or so I can remember the first time I heard a fresh station playing artists like David Sanborn, George Benson, Larry Carlton, Richard Elliot. The station was WQCD 101.9. I can remember going to my first smooth/contemporary jazz concert in 1989 on a weeknight at the Westbury Music Fair. Hosted by Deborah Rath, we enjoyed the Rippingtons, Richard Elliot and Larry Carlton. It was a packed house and it was an influential moment for me. I was inspired by this great style and this great station hosting and putting on this event. I picked up the guitar at this very same time, and this station was my education and source for good music. About 10 years later, I was honored to have won a contest by CD101.9 looking for the best new artist in NYC. They had me open up a show in Bryant Park NYC for Guitars and Saxes, and started playing my music on air. It was a dream come true. The station that had given me inspiration was now playing my songs. I couldn't believe it. A few years later Robin Marshall Blake Lawrence from CD101.9 helped me nationally with my tune "Wind Chill Factor." This station was a huge part of my upringing and helped me get started as a guitarist in jazz. I am very thankful for these times and opportunities. But enough about me. I write today because we all know that about 1 year ago this station went off the air and is now a rock station. Since that day, I've met countless folks who have expressed their loss with this station disappearing. At a recent show in NY, I asked the crowd if they remembered cd101.9, and the groan and weeps were as if we had recalled a respected loved one who had passed on. This station was such a huge part of the culture and lifestyle of so many people. And still is in memory. We still can't believe that this huge city and metropolitan area does not have a contemporary/smooth jazz station? I'm not sure if the owners of the station really know how this has impacted so many listeners and lovers of this format. There is no replacement for the local voice who brings you through your day exploring great vibrant music. It no longer exists in NY. I'm also heartbroken that the new artist out there exploring jazz won't have a chance to emerge on this station. The curious teenager may not have that influential listening moment anymore. It has so many effects upon culture, the jazz scene, and music in general for New York. It's unfortunate that this great station no longer can be heard. So many jazz fans in NYC, NJ, Long Island, Connecticut have asked me what happened? Why is there no more cd101.9? All I can suggest is that you write to Emmis Communications and express your feelings. Perhaps if they hear from you, they may reconsider this decision? Here's the good news—you can find so many online and satellite stations to enjoy good music! All the best, MM May 2009 Long Island Vineyards and an emerging Jazz scene There is buzz happening right in my own backyard. That buzz is the Wine of Long Island, NY. Just 1.5 hours outside of the capital of the world (NYC), there are beautiful fields, farms, a taste of the past, and a blossoming vineyard scene producing some amazing wines. WWW.Liwines.com gives you an idea of the size of this scene. It's not just a couple of vineyards. Some of my favorite discoveries this last year have been Bedell and Corey Creek, along with Peconic Bay Winery. However there are so many great names,that you can spend weeks visiting them all on the east end of Long Island. What's even more exciting is the interest in Jazz that is emerging at the vineyards. The East End Arts Council, headed by Pat Snyder, along with the Long Island Wine Council have put forth a great jazz festival that runs for over 1 month called "Winterfest."(www.liwinterfest.com) National and local Long Island artists bring a wide variety of jazz from latin, funk, smooth, to straight ahead and blues. All three shows we were fortunate to perform out were jam packed. Other artists last year included Paul Simon bassist Bakithi Kumalo, Erikah Badu flautist Dwayne Kerr, along with many other great performers. I must say that we are very excited about this new scene. If you plan on being in New York City, or Long Island, it's truly worth the time to head out East to Long Island's North Fork. Not only will the quaint little towns of Mattituck, Laurel, Riverhead, Cutchogue give you a comforting feel for the past, but the Wine and an emerging Jazz scene will also make you smile. July 5th and August 15th we make stops at Bedell and Laurel Lake Vineyards. Enjoy the summer! MM