.

for a musician to evolve into an authentic storyteller ,

learning vocabulary and developing craft is only the beginning

 

artistic mastery can only be attained through time and experience 

and yet , even this is but a prerequisite to potentiate the practitioner

for the journey of discovery within

 

just as the poet alchemizes life lessons and summons words which reveal wisdom , 

musicians possess the ability to transform feelings into sonic narrative

 

when conveyed with clarity , purpose , and love

musical messages may become beacons of light to those who are receptive

 

 indeed , my musical heroes 

louis armstrong , count basie , charlie parker , thelonius monk ,

rhythmists max and roy / tito and mongo 

personified spiritual virtues through their work 

and

mentors dewey redman , sheila jordan , kenny barron , and tom harrell

taught me that talent is to be utilized not just to entertain , but ultimately to effectuate

a higher purpose :

 

to awaken , uplift , and enrich the human spirit

                    in such manner that provokes us to recognize the divine in ourselves and each other                       

 

may we always seek what these masters sought