and very welcoming. We made jazz Wednesday a success and our fan base is growing. We are proud and hope it continues for a long time. Holly Cordero has played the bass since she was 14 years old. She attended Otterbein University in Ohio and received degrees in jazz studies and music business. Then she obtained her masters in jazz performance at NYU. When Grosman told her about his idea for a jazz trio, she jumped at the opportunity. Q: What do you like about playing the bass and are you enjoying Fire Jass Trio? I can do different styles and genres. I’m always learning something new and it’s always growing as an instrument. Whenever you are in a group and play together, you notice each other’s nuances and learn about what each other does and it sounds whole as a group. At Fire Restaurant it’s a nice, steady, regular crowd and also newcomers. Q: Are you involved in other bands or musical groups? I am in several other groups from country to R & B. I also play for the Imperial Symphony Orchestra. It’s my first year and I love it. It’s a nice community and like a family.
Everyone wants everyone to succeed. Q: Who are your biggest musical influences? Composer John Cage questioned what music was and stretched the boundaries. Bassist Ray Brown wasn’t flashy and had great technique. Most of jazz music isn’t written down. Not every note will be perfect, but it’s still a part of the song. This is Sam Farmer’s first real jazz gig and he never thought music would end up being a career. When he was 8 years old, his dad bought him a drum set and he’s now been playing professionally for 10 years. Farmer is based out of St. Petersburg and also has a band called Someday Honey focusing on Americana and soul. Q: Why did you decide to join Fire Jass Trio and do you enjoy it? I met George and he was looking for a drummer. Jazz is the basis for a lot of music and I try to make every gig a learning experience. Being with Fire Jass Trio is helping me become a better drummer. There is lots of room for creativity. Q: What are your future goals? I would like to play every instrument if I can. If there is an instrument, I want to know how to play it. I never had drum lessons. I learned by ear and by playing with others. Anywhere you want me to play, I’ll be there.
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MARCH 2019
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