Congratulations to Danjam Orchestra trumpeter Matt Holman who just won the 2012 BMI / Charlie Parker Composition Competition for his piece entitled “What Are You Thinking?”. I was able to attend the concert where a ton of great music was showcased, but Matt’s definitely shone through as the highlight. This is an incredible achievement for Matt as it is his second year participating in the workshop and big band writing is not his main focus. However, I can’t say I am surprised because Matt is one of those people who once he puts his mind to something musically, it turns to gold. He is one of the most sought after, hard working trumpeters in New York and this award was well deserved. You can check out Matt’s music here:
http://www.mattholman.com/
Justin Gray Returns From India
Danjam Orchestra bassist Justin Gray just returned from 6 months of intense studies in Kolkata, India where he studied traditional North Indian Classical Music with his Guru, Shantanu Bhattacharryya on and off for the last 6 years. Justin was studying this ancient art form in the most traditional format in order to learn not only a new musical language, but also to understand its deep rooted philosophies. In addition to studying, Justin maintained a rigorous performing schedule including gigs with his Guru, the Monsoon Trio, and the Kolkata Symphony Orchestra.
Florian Hoefner’s “Songs Without Words”
Danjam Orchestra pianist Florian Hoefner just released his first CD as a leader entitled, “Songs Without Words”, on Origin Arts OA2 label. Welcome to the Origin family Florian! The album features an all star line-up of musicians; Sam Anning on bass, Peter Kronreif on drums and Danjam Orchestra member Mike Ruby on saxophones. I just finished listening to my copy and dug every minute of it. Compositionally, Florian has the ability to marry pop sensibility with contemporary jazz construction. The tunes are beautifully written to feature all the instruments in the band in unconventional ways. This combined with stellar musicianship result in a very hip finished product. The band just returned from a ten day release tour in Germany. In October they will set off for more touring in the US, Canada, Austria, Switzerland, Germany and Poland. You can pick up your copy of “Songs Without Words” here: www.florian-hoefner.com. Congratulations Florian!
Heather Segger Receives Grant
Congratulations to Danjam Orchestra member Heather Segger, who just received a Grant to Professional Musicians from the Canada Council for the Arts. She will be traveling to Amsterdam for a few months in 2013 to study trombone and improvisation. This will also be a great opportunity for her to absorb the culture and the art scene. Heather is an incredible, hard working musician who is very deserving of this opportunity. You will soon be able to check out Heather’s music here: www.heathersegger.com