Show Notes
Alex Collins is a dynamic pianist, composer, and arranger based in New York City. Known for his versatility and deep musicality, Alex has performed with a wide range of celebrated artists, including Michelle Coltrane, Lenny White, Lonnie Plaxico, Ronnie Burrage, and the legendary Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars. He was featured on Gerry Gibbs’ chart-topping album Weather or Not (2017) and Our People (2019). A recipient of the prestigious Wynton Kelly Jazz Foundation Award for Jazz Achievement in 2003, Alex continues to make his mark on the contemporary jazz scene with both power and finesse.
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Hal Galper, born in Salem, Massachusetts, began his musical journey studying classical piano before shifting to jazz at Berklee College of Music in the mid-1950s. Immersing himself in the Boston jazz scene, he became the house pianist at several clubs and went on to perform with legends like Chet Baker, Stan Getz, and the Cannonball Adderley Quintet. An acclaimed performer, recording artist, and educator, Galper has also taught at Purchase College and the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music.
Joe Strasser is a one-of-a-kind jazz drummer known for his distinctive sound, deep musicality, and rock-solid time. A cornerstone of the New York City jazz scene, Strasser’s playing can be heard on standout recordings like Up In Smoke and Still Smokin’ with Ian Hendrickson-Smith, and In Orbit with Planet Jazz. Drawing inspiration from masters like Jimmy Cobb and Philly Joe Jones, he combines a foundation in tradition with a thoroughly individual voice, making him one of the most respected and versatile drummers of his generation.
Pat Bianchi is a Grammy-nominated jazz organist known for pushing the boundaries of the Hammond B-3 while honoring its rich tradition. Mentored by legends Dr. Lonnie Smith and Joey DeFrancesco, Bianchi has developed a unique voice that blends deep roots with a forward-looking approach. As a leader, he has toured extensively across the U.S. and Europe, opened for Steely Dan, and performed alongside icons like Pat Martino, Lou Donaldson, Joe Locke, and Chuck Loeb. With nine albums as a leader and over 40 guest appearances, Bianchi’s command of the instrument, harmonic depth, and rhythmic intensity place him among the top organists of his generation. In addition to his busy touring schedule, he teaches at Berklee College of Music and hosts the SiriusXM show Organized, celebrating the art and history of jazz organ.
Grant Stewart, a Toronto-born tenor saxophonist, moved to New York City in the 1990s, studying with jazz masters like Donald Byrd and Barry Harris. Known for his powerful sound and deep command of the jazz tradition, Stewart has performed internationally with legends including Jimmy Cobb, Harold Mabern, Clark Terry, and Renee Fleming. He has released twenty albums as a leader, with highlights such as Grant Stewart Trio on Cellar Live and the award-winning Live at Smalls. Consistently recognized in the DownBeat Critics Poll and featured in JazzTimes, Stewart stands out as one of the top tenor saxophonists of his generation, acclaimed for keeping the spirit of classic jazz alive with his modern voice.
Today on the podcast, I’m joined by trombonist, composer, and educator David Gibson. A driving force on the New York jazz scene, David has performed with legends like Slide Hampton, Roy Hargrove, and Jimmy Heath, and has released seven acclaimed albums as a bandleader. His compositions and arrangements have been featured by the GRAMMY-nominated Captain Black Big Band and ensembles across the country. With a deep commitment to mentorship and the jazz tradition, David continues to inspire both on stage and in the classroom.