Bryan attended the jazz camp in 2010 (age 21) and 2011 (age 22).
I have many great memories from my time there!
Getting the opportunity to learn from top-class musicians, in a setting that is accessible and comfortable but secluded enough to bring peace and focus to the learning environment was a really great experience. I remember seeing Ken French break down a 12 bar blues structure in new ways I had never considered, eloquently explaining a basic history of the music while also showing its possibilities for growth and innovation. Learning a Thelonious Monk tune by ear with Al Bent was a special experience, as he demystified the music piece by piece.
I got some time with Nora during the camp where she showed me some Alexander Technique basics that have truly impacted my life and music making ever since. And of course I got to play and hang out and learn from Bill, who’s playing on Art Lande’s records loomed so large in my musical upbringing.
Getting to hear stories, getting to pick the brains of Nora and Bill and other great musicians, and having space to learn and grow in a relaxed but focused environment, was such a joy for me, and was absolutely integral in my development into a professional keyboardist and composer.
It was also at that jazz camp where I really got to know Joe Berry, who a few years later played on my first recording session as a bandleader. I was the pianist in the third big band (out of three) at CSU Northridge when I attended the camp in 2010.
The camp helped my playing quite a bit, but most of all it got me inspired to work even harder at my craft. After the camp that summer I was inspired to go home and work hard, so I went and transcribed an entire Hank Mobley album, from start to finish, all of the solos including drums, all of Hank Mobley’s nuances in the melodies, etc.
When I auditioned for big bands that September, I got the top spot in the school, in the CSUN Jazz “A” Band, where I got to perform with guests such as Chris Potter, Ben Wendel, Tia Fuller, Adam Rogers, and playing in that band lead me to an opportunity to play with Bennie Maupin on a few gigs in LA.
To say that my short time at the jazz camp was monumental in my development and growth as a musician, composer, and young adult would be an understatement. Thank you Nora, and all of those involved in making this camp happen, for all of this amazing work you have done for your community. It does not go unnoticed, and I hope this legacy is able to continue for many many years, as I know it is impacting so many lives so positively, mine certainly included.