"I started playing woodwinds in the 4th grade. During my years at Berklee I studied saxophone technique with Joe Viola, Joe Allard, and Jerry Bergonzi. Studied improvisation with Charlie Banacos and Jerry Bergonzi. Learned how to circle breath with Roshan Roland Kirk. Formed the band Timepiece with Al MacDowell (Ornette Coleman's bass player for 40 years) so spent considerable time with Ornette and also performed with Cecil Taylor in his big band.

Can teach all the woodwinds clarinet, flute, all the saxophones. I have a BA in Music Composition from Berklee where we had to compose a 10 minute classical symphony performed by Boston Symphony to graduate. I teach music theory and composition. My speciality is teaching how to improvise. I use a series of exercises developed by Joe Henderson, Charlie Banacos and McCoy Tyner.

Currently I teach all levels from beginners to advance adults. NYSMA review and coaching helps all my grammar school and high school students. I also established Blue Jackel Entertainment which for over 15 years won the world music title in Europe twice, had 11 Grammy nominations (won 3) and numerous Independent music label awards.

At Queens College in Queens NY I have been teaching the Music Business Course at the Graduate level for 5 years now." less...