From Indiana University to the Brevard Music Festival, from the Copenhagen
Rhythmik Music Conservatory to the Old Town School of Folk Music, Astral
Project delivers intense and informative clinics and workshops focusing
on all aspects of jazz, performing and the music business.
Each man is an eloquent and informed educator. Steve Masakowski is an
Associate Professor at the University of New Orleans where he teaches
guitar, improvisation and composition. He contributes regularly to Guitar
Magazine and is constantly in demand as a guest artist/lecturer. An Associate
Professor at Loyola University in New Orleans, Tony Dagradi directs several
ensembles and teaches saxophone and improvisation. He has produced a master
class CD for Saxophone Magazine and is the author of numerous articles
concentrating on various facets of arranging. His book Essential Scale
Studies For Improvisation, published by Kendor Music, addresses many
technical issues of intervallic relationships and is quickly becoming
a standard in the field of Jazz Education. John Vidacovich has been teaching
at Loyola and UNO for over twenty years. He has long been the teacher
of choice for every serious drum student in the area. In addition to his
local activities he has given clinics around the world and has an instructional
video which definitely details the fine points of New Orleans drum styles.
James Singleton teaches privately and brings his own singular and articulate
perspective to questions of bass technique as well as general performance
concepts.
In a typical workshop session the group performs for students in a casual
environment. Discussions follow which focus on elements specific to each
performance including harmonic structure, rhythmic questions and other
technical issues. Additionally, each man shares his insights on general
topics of interest for all musicians. These can range from problem solving
in the recording studio to dealing with less than honest booking agents
and inconvenient set backs while out on the road.
All presentations are embued with a sense of purpose and undeniable artistry...not
to mention humor. Tony, Steve, John and James are committed to performing
music at the highest level possible and strive to share their enthusiasm
and passion for jazz with each and every audience.
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