December... always a great time for music

Every December I get the chance to perform with some great musicians Last December, I had the pleasure of performing with doo-wop heavyweights of yesteryear, The Diamonds. If you have not heard their stuff, it is fun and awesome music (especially when they perform Christmas music). The year before, I did a run as the pit drummer for my first ballet (based of off the Charles Dickens classic "A Christamas Carol"). Not to mention many gigs with various jazz groups for private Christmas or New Years Eve parties.

This year is no different. I have a few gigs lined up for private parties and some in different bars and clubs. One in particular I am playing with my long-time friend and music cohort Kent Grover on saxophone (who is nearing the end of his master degree and will next be a Navy musician). Then, on the 16th, I get the honor to once again perform with the amazing vocalist Chris Mann. This will be the second time I have performed with him, but the first time with mainly Christmas material. If you have not heard of Chris, he is a great vocalist. He came in fourth on the second season of NBC's television singing competition The Voice in 2012. Mann came in first on Team Christina Aguilera and represented her in the final round. He is currently starring in The Phantom of the Opera as the "Phantom" in the show's North American tour. Beyond being a rising star, he is one of the nicest musicians I have had the chance to work with. He is kind and patient, which is difficult to find in talented people that have fame.

Anyhoo, I will keep updating how this and many other gigs go. For those of you who read this blog, thank you so much for taking an interest in my work. I am grateful for all the opportunites I have been given, and I am glad to share some of my expereinces!

God Bless.