Sitting down at the piano after hearing of Jim Blackley's passing - this tune just kind of came out. Jim was my teacher from 2013 to 2016, and during that time I learned so much. His distillation of the 'essence' jazz drumming, core of musicality on the drumset, and the way his method centered the act of practice on a mindful cultivation of self, as much as on tangible techniques, has encouraged a path of discovery for me - in my craft, in my teaching, and in my life. But I also hold with me the razor sharp bit insight that he often left me with at the end of our lessons in his handwritten practice notes - "smile you prick!" Like a a Zen koan - it's hidden, multi-faceted wisdom has resonated with me often: a counterpoint to the focus of disciplined study, to be kind to yourself, to not think of 'failure' or 'success' - only process and intention, to always remain open, outward, connected, listening, offering.
I tend to be hesitant to share some of the music that I write, because I either feel like it might not be interesting enough, or isn't quite where I want it to be. I wrote this piece about a year ago and have yet to bring it up at a session or a gig - but remembering Jim's advice makes me realize that maybe I've just been forgetting to smile :)
I'll post up a recording or video soon!
I tend to be hesitant to share some of the music that I write, because I either feel like it might not be interesting enough, or isn't quite where I want it to be. I wrote this piece about a year ago and have yet to bring it up at a session or a gig - but remembering Jim's advice makes me realize that maybe I've just been forgetting to smile :)
I'll post up a recording or video soon!
"There's only this moment, start now!" - Jim Blackley
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