Piano Jazz Masterclass with Brett Williams- in review!

Brett Williams at the piano

WOW! CYM's piano students and families had a special treat on Saturday, March 7th when local Pittsburgh legend, jazz pianist Brett Williams and his comrades- Jevon Rushton, percussion, and  Sam Harris, bass, presented an interactive masterclass at CYM Sewickley.

Trio with Brett Williams, Sam Harris, and Jevon Rushton

 The trio performed Autumn Leaves and Blues for the group, introduced themselves, and spoke about their individual musical beginnings (all classically trained!) Mr. Willimas spoke about the musical tools and techniques you use to make creative statements with your instrument- a "question and answer" approach, creating an arc or peak of interest, and relying on the music literacy knowledge you learn during practice to create a framework for your improvisation. The gentlemen especially focused on the importance of listening to each other and working together to create a new musical experience each time they perform!

Mr. Sam takes the bass for a little run, er, walk

The many fun faces of Mr. Jevon

Bassist Sam Harris and percussionist Jevon Rushton shared some excellent advice on listening, collaboration, and personal style. Both gentlemen were fantastic collaborators themselves and added sophisticated rhythms and flair to every number, not to mention, were a blast to watch!

Mr. Brett and Gabi take turns with their improv riffs

Next, students were invited up to the piano to improvise in a call and response with Mr. Brett. They were FANTASTIC!

Alexandra Spallek played a fantastic boogie!

 The latter half of the workshop allowed students who had prepared standards, blues, or boogie-style pieces to perform their piece with the rhythm section and have Mr. Williams make suggestions and give comments. The audience clapped along!

Fife McCargo adds her own spin to the blues.

The whole group!

The whole group had such a great time learning and performing. What a day!

 

The very next Friday, students who attended the workshop were invited to see Mr. Williams perform with world renowned Pittsburgh bassist Marcus Miller and his band at Manchester Craftsman's Guild. The concert was a blend of blues, funk, latin, and jazz tunes. They brought the house down with Papa Was a Rolling Stone!

Students at the MCG concert

A HUGE thank you to Brett and Lori Williams, Jevon Rushton, and Sam Harris for such an incredible experience. Thank you to Alicia McGinnis and Ms. Sonia for coordinating this wonderful event. We are inspired and thankful for such an unforgettable experience!