30 Albums For 30 Years (1964-1994‪)‬ Jay Sweet

Aaron Irwin Interview

Saxophonist, multi-woodwind instrumentalist and composer Aaron Irwin is from central IL. Recognized as a “lyrical alto saxophonist and a compelling original composer” (Steve Futterman, The New Yorker), Irwin is a sought-after commodity in both the jazz and commercial worlds. His latest recording (After) will be released on Adhyâropa Records in May of 2024, featuring longtime bandmates Mike Baggetta on guitar and Jeff Hirshfield on drums. He has eight other recordings as a leader with instrumentations spanning from trio to sextet. In addition to his groups, Irwin has performed with many leading jazz voices in the New York music community including the Grammy-nominated Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society, Jamie Baum’s Septet +, Bob Sabin’s Tentet, The Mike Fahie Jazz Orchestra, the mixed wind group Weathervest, as well as pop artists Kristen Chenoweth, Rufus Wainwright, Josh Groban, Idina Menzel, and The Roots. Irwin maintains a busy schedule as a freelance musician, performing in jazz clubs, concert halls, and Broadway theatres, working with many of New York’s finest musicians and bands.

Billy Mohler is a Grammy-nominated bassist, producer, and songwriter who works with legends like Lady Gaga, Sia, Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, Macy Gray, Ringo Starr, Herbie Hancock, Steven Tyler, and Smashing Pumpkins.  In addition to his incredible success in pop music, he is a noted jazz musician and has released several records under his name; his most recent album release available is called Ultraviolet with saxophonist Chris Speed, trumpeter Shane Endsley, and drummer Nate Wood.

Esperanza Spalding Interview

Esperanza Spalding, a Portland-born jazz musician, rose to prominence with her versatile talent as a bassist, singer, and composer. Trained in classical music from childhood, she explored various genres, leading to groundbreaking albums like "Esperanza" and "Chamber Music Society." Her Grammy win for Best New Artist in 2011 propelled her to international recognition despite competition from mainstream pop acts. Spalding's commitment to artistic integrity is evident in her experimental projects, such as writing and recording an album in 77 hours and exploring spirituality through music on "Songwrights Apothecary Lab." Collaborations with renowned artists like Wayne Shorter and Fred Hersch further cement her status as a jazz luminary. Now, as she embarks on a tour, she continues to captivate audiences with her innovative compositions and virtuosic performances.

Chris Pinnella's musical journey is woven with experiences across diverse landscapes. His career took flight at 16 when he showcased his prodigious talent with Alphonse Stephenson and the Orchestra of St. Peter, a debut that set the stage for his future success. This early triumph was just the beginning of his musical odyssey, eventually leading him to earn a degree from Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. Post-college, his career trajectory led him to diverse platforms. He delved into off-Broadway and regional theater. Notably, he landed the role of Simeon in the musical "Simeon's Gift," a production co-authored by the legendary Julie Andrews and her daughter Emma Walton-Hamilton. His involvement in this project gave him a unique opportunity to collaborate closely with industry icons. Additionally, he toured with the famed Trans Siberian Orchestra. Over the last several years, Pinnella has led large-scale celebrated tribute shows featuring the music of Frank Sinatra and a tribute show on the music of Billy Joel.

Stephane Wrembel is a Paris-born guitar virtuoso known for his authentic interpretation of Django Reinhardt's music and innovative compositions that blend jazz with various influences. Immersed in the culture, he has dedicated himself to understanding Reinhardt's legacy. Wrembel's career includes numerous albums, collaborations with esteemed musicians, and performances at prestigious venues worldwide. He is also recognized for his work on several Woody Allen films and his annual Django A Gogo Festival.  Wrembel's music reflects his vast experiences and intellectual curiosity, pushing the boundaries of jazz while paying homage to its rich history. This year's Django á Gogo Music Festival will run from May 1st to May 4th. It features international talents honoring Reinhardt's influential style. This year's festival will see the reunion of the Gypsy Guitars Trio, featuring legends like Angelo Debarre and Serge Camps alongside rising stars like Simba Baumgartner and Hugo Guezbar. Additionally, Wrembel's Django New Orleans band will perform. 

https://www.stephanewrembel.com/

Terence Blanchard Interview

Terence Blanchard, born in New Orleans in 1962, is a celebrated jazz trumpeter, composer, and bandleader. Rising from the vibrant musical scene of his hometown, Blanchard's talent quickly garnered attention, leading to collaborations with jazz legends like Lionel Hampton and Art Blakey. His partnership with filmmaker Spike Lee catapulted him to international acclaim, as he composed scores for numerous acclaimed films, including "Jungle Fever," "Malcolm X," and "BlacKkKlansman." Blanchard's music transcends traditional boundaries, seamlessly blending jazz with other genres and addressing social issues through projects like his band E-Collective. He has also ventured into opera composition, premiering successful works such as "Champion" and "Fire Shut Up in My Bones." Blanchard's multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to innovation have solidified his legacy as a pioneering force in contemporary music. Recently, I spoke with the trumpet legend about his life, music, and thoughts on winning an NEA Jazz Masters Award, one of the highest honors for jazz musicians.  You can check out, my article at ​​https://njjs.org/