Shows
MusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Jaco Pastorius - Season 1a Episode 7 - Originally Aired 2021As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman reflects on his encounter with the legendary bassist Jaco Pastorius and the personal struggles that shaped Jaco’s life and career.
Influence of Weather Report and Jaco:
Tom shares his admiration for Weather Report, particularly the impact of Jaco Pastorius, whose talent elevated the band's rhythm and energy.
Jaco’s contributions to the band brought youthful brilliance and a wider audience.
Meeting Jaco at Bradley’s Jazz Club:
In the late 1980s, Tom met Ja...2024-12-3011 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Miles Davis - Season 1a Episode 6 - Originally Aired 2021As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman shares his memorable encounter with jazz legend Miles Davis during a 1981 concert at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado.
The Setting:
Spyro Gyra shared the stage with Miles Davis, who had just released "The Man with the Horn" album.
Miles’ ensemble featured Mike Stern, Al Foster, Marcus Miller, and saxophonist Bill Evans.
Meeting Miles Davis:
After the soundcheck, Tom nervously approached Miles at his dressing room.
Despite Miles’ reputation for being moody, he was welc...2024-12-3009 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Dizzy Gillespie - Season 1a Episode 5 - Originally Aired 2021As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman recounts a memorable experience with jazz legend Dizzy Gillespie during the 1982 Newport Jazz Festival in Madurao, Japan.
The Setting
Spyro Gyra participated in a George Wein production of the Newport Jazz Festival near Mount Fuji.
The festival brought together legendary artists such as Dizzy Gillespie, Freddie Hubbard, Lee Ritenour, Gil Evans, and Tanya Maria.
The remote festival location and limited nightlife turned musicians' hotel rooms into gathering spots, fostering camaraderie.
The Song “Dizzy”
Tom had just comp...2024-12-3007 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on BB King - Season 1a Episode 4 - Originally Aired 2021As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, Tom Schuman’s shares his memorable encounter with blues legend B.B. King during the 1989 JVC Grand Parade du Jazz in Nice, France.
Meeting B.B. King
Tom approached B.B. King outside the bar at the Hyatt hotel, introducing himself.
B.B. surprised Tom by recognizing him and praising Spyro Gyra’s music, leaving Tom deeply honored and humbled.
A Conversation About Sobriety
At the time, Tom was struggling with staying sober amidst the fest...2024-12-3004 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Buddy Tate - Season 1a Episode 3 - Originally Aired 2021This podcast episode features a heartfelt story from Tom Schuman about his encounter with legendary saxophonist Buddy Tate at the 1989 JVC Grand Parade du Jazz in Nice, France.
The Festival Setting
The festival was an 11-day jazz event featuring legendary performers such as Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy Heath, Lionel Hampton, B.B. King, and others.
Spyro Gyra performed during the festival, which concluded with a lively party at the Hyatt hotel near the beach in Nice.
Meeting Buddy Tate
Tom met Buddy Tate, a former member of the Count...2024-12-3005 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Cab Calloway - Season 1a Episode 2 - Originally Aired 2021As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of Schu-Memories features Tom Schuman recounting another memorable story from his decades-long music career, specifically his encounter with jazz legend Cab Calloway at the North Sea Jazz Festival in 1992.
The Setting: North Sea Jazz Festival 1992
Tom describes the festival as an extraordinary event featuring legends like Cab Calloway, Chick Corea, McCoy Tyner, Betty Carter, and Gladys Knight.
Spyro Gyra performed on the same night as Grover Washington Jr. and the Yellowjackets, making it an unforgettable experience.
The Challenge of Following...2024-12-3008 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz - Schu-Memories by Tom Schuman on Count Basie - Season 1a Episode 1 - Originally Aired 2021As an extension to MusiConversations on Jazz, this episode of the Schu-Memories series, features Tom Schuman reflecting on his early career with Spyro Gyra and a life-changing encounter with jazz legend Count Basie.
Introduction to Touring and Festivals
Tom recalls joining Spyro Gyra as a teenager and his excitement at playing in local Buffalo clubs.
Touring internationally with Spyro Gyra opened the door to encounters with jazz greats and solidified his commitment to the band.
The North Sea Jazz Festival (1979)
The band's first major international festival took place in The Hague...2024-12-3010 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversation on Jazz with 40+ year Bandmate Jay Beckenstein, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 10 - Originally Aired Dec 2007This episode of MusiConversations on Jazz features Host Tom Schuman and Guest Jay Beckenstein, longtime collaborators and members of Spyro Gyra, in a heartfelt conversation reflecting on their 40+ years together in the smooth jazz genre.
Spyro Gyra’s Longevity and Legacy
The duo reflects on the band's longevity, attributing their success to mutual respect, creative collaboration, and a shared passion for music.
Their pioneering efforts helped define smooth jazz, with over 30 albums and 11 Grammy nominations to their name.
Early Days and Musical Influences
Jay’s Background:
Jay’...2024-12-301h 16MusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz with Peter White, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 9 - Originally Aired Dec 2007This episode of MusiConversations on Jazz features Host Tom Schuman interviewing Peter White, renowned guitarist known for his signature nylon-string sound. Their engaging conversation, set in a small British pub in Los Angeles, highlights White's career, influences, and unique approach to music.
Peter White’s Musical Journey
Early Beginnings:
White began as a pianist, developing a foundation that later influenced his compositions. His father encouraged musical education, introducing a piano to the household when Peter was young.
Inspired by The Beatles, he transitioned to guitar, starting with an acoustic instrument and te...2024-12-3056 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz with Marion Meadows, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 8 - Originally Aired Nov 2007This episode of MusiConversations on Jazz features Host Tom Schuman interviewing jazz saxophonist Marion Meadows, exploring his career, influences, and artistic philosophy. Meadows reflects on his musical journey, his latest album "Dressed to Chill", and the broader jazz landscape.
Career and Artistic Journey
Early Musical Development:
Marion’s early days in Connecticut exposed him to diverse cultural and religious influences, shaping his spiritual and musical outlook.
After studying at Berklee College of Music, Marion explored avant-garde jazz, influenced by artists like Pharaoh Sanders and Ornette Coleman, before shifting to modal and me...2024-12-3057 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz with Michael Lington, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 7 - Originally Aired Nov 2007This episode of MusiConversations on Jazz features Host Tom Schuman interviewing jazz saxophonist Michael Lington at Michael's home in Hollywood. The conversation spans Michael's career, his creative processes, influences, and other ventures, providing an in-depth look at his journey as a musician.
Michael's Background and Career Journey:
Relocation and Lifestyle: Michael has been in the U.S. for 18 years, residing in Hollywood, where he balances a bustling touring schedule with a passion for music and cooking.
Musical Beginnings: Growing up in Copenhagen, Denmark, Michael was influenced by European jazz and musicians like Cannonball...2024-12-3056 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz with Steve Cole, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 6 - Originally Aired Nov 2007This episode of MusiConversations on Jazz features Tom Schuman with jazz saxophonist Steve Cole, covering Steve's career, his latest album "Truth", and his experiences in the jazz world. Below are the highlights:
Introduction and Setting:
Tom introduces Steve Cole and discusses their meeting at the Green Valley Ranch Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, where Steve performed with "The Sax Pack".
A track from Steve’s album, "Bounce", is featured as an introduction to his music.
Steve Cole's Latest Album - "Truth":
Released on Blue Note Records, "Truth" is...2024-12-3056 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz with Cora Coleman, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 5 - Originally Aired Oct 2007This episode of MusiConversation on Jazz features Tom Schuman in conversation with Cora Coleman Dunham, a jazz and pop drummer best known for her work with Prince. The discussion spans Cora’s journey in music, her inspirations, and career milestones. Here are the highlights:
Introduction:
Tom introduces Cora, reflecting on their friendship that began during the making of "Schuman Nature" (2003).
Cora’s current role as Prince’s drummer is highlighted, including performing with him at major events like the Super Bowl.
Cora's Musical Journey:
Early Life:
Grew u...2024-12-3056 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz with Najee, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 4 - Originally Aired Oct 2007Our MusiConversation with Najee, was originally recorded over the phone in 2007 and aired October 2007.
The episode features Tom Schuman interviewing jazz saxophonist Najee, celebrating his illustrious career and discussing his latest album, "Rising Sun". Here’s a summary of the key highlights:
Introduction:
Tom introduces Najee as a leading figure in contemporary jazz, renowned for hits like "Najee’s Theme" and his interpretations of songs such as Anita Baker’s "Sweet Love".
They reflect on Najee’s contributions to jazz and R&B over a career spanning more than 20 years.
2024-12-3052 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz with Steve Oliver, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 3 - Originally Aired Oct 2007Our MusiConversation with Steve Oliver, was originally recorded backstage before a show Steve opened for Spyro Gyra in 2007 and aired October 2007.
In this episode of MusiConversations on Jazz, Tom Schuman interviews jazz guitarist Steve Oliver backstage before a performance with Spyro Gyra. The conversation delves into Steve's career, creative process, and musical philosophy.
Collaborations and Productions:
Tom and Steve recount their collaborations on Steve’s albums "3D" and "Radiant", where Tom served as co-producer and keyboardist.
The duo is working on Steve's next project, emphasizing their shared passion for creative synergy.
Steve’s Musi...2024-12-2954 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz with Jeff Kashiwa, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 2 - Originally Aired Sep 2007Tom Schuman, keyboardist for Spyro Gyra, hosts "Music Conversations on Jazz."
In this episode recorded in the summer of 2007 and originally aired in Sep 2007, he interviews saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa, discussing their long friendship, musical collaborations, and careers.
Background and Friendship:
Tom and Jeff's relationship dates back to Jeff's time with The Rippingtons.
Jeff recently collaborated on Tom's solo project, Deep Chill.
Jeff's Career and Musical Evolution:
Jeff began on clarinet in school before transitioning to saxophone.
Influenced by jazz legends like Cannonball Adderley and Phil Woods.
...2024-12-2947 minMusiConversations on JazzMusiConversations on Jazz with Bob James, Host Tom Schuman - Season 1 Episode 1 - Originally Aired Sep 2007Our MusiConversation with Bob James, was originally recorded in the late summer of 2007 and aired September 2007.
In this inaugural episode of Music Conversations on Jazz, host Tom Schuman interviews legendary jazz pianist and composer Bob James. They discuss Bob's illustrious career, current projects, and the creative philosophies that have shaped his journey.
Key Highlights:
Bob James’ Current Projects:
Bob shares his recent experience performing Beethoven’s Symphony with classical pianist Frederick Chu in a four-hand arrangement.
Upcoming performances include tours in Japan with a sextet blending jazz and hip-hop, feat...2024-11-2455 min