MusiConversations on Jazz

As 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 an...

As 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...

As 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 Gilles...

As 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 To...

This 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 conclude...

As 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, Chi...

As 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...

This 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 pass...

This 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...

This 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 cult...

This 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...

This 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...

This 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). C...

Our 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 "Naj...

Our 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 P...

Tom 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...

Our 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 P...