Got a call last night to be a last-minute sub for Alejandro Arenas for the Mars’ Trio‘s steady at the Westchase Starbucks. I found out today that USF drum instructor, Steve Davis, would be playing drums on this gig. This was quite a big deal for me, as Steve has played with some of the great modern jazz musicians. He’s a member of the Lynne Arriale Trio and, as I’ve been told, is the most represented drummer on the Jamey Aebersold play-alongs.
There were definitely some distractions at this gig, including a very loud near-car-wreck, that rattled me a bit. I felt I represented myself as well as I can at this point. I finally see improvement in my playing, but I also see more to work on than I ever have before. I appreciate Steve’s helpful yet challenging playing. When things weren’t always clear for me, Steve helped clear things up with his playing. The trio is rounded out be sax player Rich Van Voorst (who runs the show). Definitely a musician and friend I’m glad to have met.
Look for more photos and stories from recent gigs shortly.
[...] If you are in or near the Lakeland, Florida area, come see matthewwengerdtrio play its first outing at the Lakeland North Starbucks. We hit at 7:30 (but come early to get your daily dose) and will play two sets. I’ve been telling my faithful readers about the subbing I’ve been doing in Tampa with the Mars’ trio. Tampa has a stronger market for this sort of thing, so I am very grateful to Stephanie, the manager at the 98 N store, for having the foresight to book live jazz in Lakeland. [...]