The Story behind Symphonic Sounds of Montalvo
Many of you know me as a jazz pianist -- composer of evergreen songs like “Freedom at Midnight” and “Kei’s Song." Well, I’d like to share a secret with you — jazz may be my bread and butter, but I've actually been composing works for symphonic orchestra for many years. These symphonic compositions don’t fall under the jazz category, and there is no budget for this project with the traditional labels I have been signed to over the years. In order to bring this new modern American music to life, I have to find funding independently. That’s where I need your support.
What Do I Need?
My goal is to raise $35,000 to record two of my symphonic works with the West European Symphony Orchestra in Portugal in September 2016. From there, I will overdub the piano tracks at Steinway Hall in New York City. Additional recording sessions will take place in Los Angeles, with the All-American Boys Chorus and members of the Asia America Youth Orchestra. Finally, the project will be mixed and mastered by my long-time recording engineer, Clark Germain.
A Little Background About the Album
The two pieces I plan to record are “Journey of the Endeavour” and “Bikeride.”
I was inspired to write “Journey of the Endeavour” after catching a glimpse of the final flight of the space shuttle Endeavour. It flew gracefully overhead, and then spent the next many hours winding its way carefully through the streets of Los Angeles, before coming to its final resting place at the California Science Museum.
“Bikeride” is my most personal composition to date, drawing its inspiration from both childhood memories and my lifelong enjoyment of this pastime. The All-American Boys Chorus will be featured on this piece, along with myself as a piano soloist.
Studio time permitting, I also plan on recording one of my jazz pieces (to be determined perhaps by popular vote), re-written for orchestra.
What’s Montalvo?
Montalvo is my creative retreat. I have been fortunate enough to spend a week every year for the past 10 years at the Lucas Artist Residency Program at Montalvo. Nestled in a 175-acre estate in the foothills of Saratoga, California, Montalvo Arts Center is the birthplace of these two symphonic works.
The Perks
Let's have some fun with this!
- Would you like me to compose a song for you or a loved one?
- Want a video of me playing a song for you, with a personal shout out?
- Ever wanted to see your name in the credits of an album liner?
- More cool perks located to the right --->
Other Ways You Can Help
Whether you realize it or not, you are an influencer! Please help spread the word about my campaign to your friends, and ask them to share the news with their friends. I hope you will take a chance on my new modern American music, and join me in turning my dream project into reality.