Top 10 Favorite Marian McPartland Tracks
Last week marked Marian McPartland’s passing. Her warmth is what I will always remember most, but her musical legacy is tremendous.
Continue ReadingStay On the Path (Thanks Cedar)
In tribute to the incredible musical legacy of Cedar Walton (1934-2013) I am currently preparing a series of my Top 10 lists. In the meantime, though, I wanted to share a personal anecdote of how a seemingly innocuous encounter with him shaped my life.
Continue ReadingA Shot At Redemption
What is it with me and philosophical revelations that occur at 5-5 in the third set? This time it incorporates disability, tragedy, Paul Simon and the potential for triumph of the human spirit and beyond.
Continue ReadingTop 10 Paul Simon Tracks
10 among my many faves by Mr. Simon . . . as a solo artist, without the tall guy.
Continue ReadingThe Distinction Between Pain and Suffering (or “It ain’t all in your head, but some of it is”)
There is an distinction between pain and suffering, two words and concepts that are often (but erroneously) treated as synonyms. Even if our pain is unavoidable, we can improve our quality of life by tackling suffering!
Continue ReadingThe Key to Fulfillment
Reflections on the delicate balance that I’ve found governs the quest for self-actualization and fulfillment.
Continue ReadingPeeling the Onion
Reflections on life as a journey (not a destination) and gratitude to a dear person who has personified this before my eyes.
Continue ReadingTop 10 Jazz Musicians Deserving of NEA Jazz Master Consideration: 2014 Edition
A few days ago the 2014 class of NEA Jazz Masters was announced, with honors going to the diverse crew of Richard Davis, Anthony Braxton, Keith Jarrett and Jamey Abersold. 3+ years ago, I wrote about musicians who I felt had been neglected in this selection process (click here to read that post for reference), and the latest batch has led me reflect a bit on who has been inducted since and who is still overdue.
Continue ReadingA Father’s Pledge
This is my 9th Father’s Day as a parent. It is, however, the first that is fraught with “survivor’s guilt.” Parents lose children and vice versa every day in every community, but since 12/14/12 that has been all too real. I can’t bring the children of Newtown (or any other place where people experience this…
Continue Reading15 Years of Wading Through the Muck Together
15 years of marriage, and now the secret to our longevity can be revealed . . .
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