The Playful Musician Steve Davidson

Steve joins The Playful Musician to discuss his journey to Ashland, Oregon and how the pandemic has impacted his life. We chat about the nuances of keeping time, his practice routine, and how practicing ambidextrously can improve your match grip. Steve tells stories about learning how to play the drums on a practice pad, touring with Jean-Luc Ponty, and playing big stadium shows with Journey. He shares who he dreams of collaborating with, what he’s currently listening to, and where he finds inspiration.

Laila joins The Playful Musician to discuss the ups and downs of being a musician during the pandemic and the tough decision to release an album on March 27th, 2020. We chat about her “quarantunes” video project and how she approaches songwriting. Laila tells stories about recording a DVD and touring with Sting. She shares about the Juno Award nomination process, her essentials for composing and the advice she has for young musicians.

Clarence joins The Playful Musician to discuss his transition from touring to going back to school to get his Master’s Degree. We chat about the impact Ellis and Wynton Marsalis had on his music career and playing his first gig with Ellis. Clarence shares his transcribing process and the advice he has for young musicians. He tells stories from touring with Michael Brecker and his experience preparing for gigs in just a few hours. Clarence shares where he’s currently finding inspiration and what he likes to do when he’s not playing music.

Joel joins The Playful Musician to discuss how the pandemic has shifted his career, the recent passing of legendary jazz artists, Chick Corea and Freddy Cole and how he developed his signature sound. Joel shares his practice routine and how he draws inspiration from books, art and of course, other musicians.

Sara joins The Playful Musician to discuss the Grammy® nomination process and what it’s like to be nominated and attend music’s biggest event. We chat about the loss of legendary jazz musician Chick Corea. Sara shares about finding success at an early age, improvising beyond melodies, and the value of going on the road. We discuss teaching practices and how she empowers and challenges her students. Sara also shares her approach to songwriting and how she’s finding inspiration with her new vocal group, säje.

Rhett joins The Playful Musician to discuss pandemic challenges, including teaching remotely and how performing has changed. He shares about his time as a student of Dr. Kenneth Fischer, and how Fischer taught him to practice efficiently. Rhett talks about his journey to become a saxophonist and university professor. We chat about the difference between playing and practicing and Rhett shares where he finds creative inspiration.