Oklahoma City—then Albuquerque—now New York City.

Food/wine, books, and science/astronomy.

John Clayton, Rodney Whitaker, and Ben Wolfe.

“Study rhythm!”

My dad is a musician/educator and used to teach at the Interlochen Arts Camp. Over the course of one summer, I was able to try every instrument in the orchestra. I couldn’t get enough of the bass and would beg to be taken over to where the string instruments were kept. A couple years later, I knew I didn’t want to do anything else.

My first professional gig in Albuquerque when I was twelve years old. Also, my first real touring experience (with Greg Osby).

Hard to imagine, but maybe a chef.

Whatever I didn’t get to yesterday! Probably some Bach on piano or bass, maybe a transcription of some kind. Reviewing music for upcoming gigs.

Bach, Duke Ellington, and Billy Strayhorn.

I was born in Oklahoma City, so that region has a lot of meaning for me. Oscar Pettiford is from there as well as Charlie Christian, Don Byas, and Chet Baker. The time period during which the early territory bands were around was incredibly vibrant.

Rick Rosato, Chris Smith, and Nick Dunston.

Greg Osby ‘Channel Three’ (Blue Note)
Gonzalo Rubalcaba ‘Charlie’ (5 Passion)
‘Mythology’ and ‘Unspoken’ (Criss Cross)