Last weekend I had the privilege of hearing my friend, collaborator, and mentor, Peo Alfonsi, play with Al DiMeola Acoustic Band at Saratoga Jazz Festival in NY. Many of you will be familiar with Al DiMeola, a guitar hero on both electric and acoustic guitar since the 70s. Peo is an extraordinary composer and player in his own right. I’m particularly fond of his solo album Nubivago, his collaboration with bassist Salvatore Maiore on the album Alma, and of course the 2 songs he has recorded with me, Libre and Ritrovarsi (alternate take). I also saw performances by DJ Logic, Cassandra Wilson, and Cory Wong at this festival, and was inspired to see so many thousands of people supporting jazz, world music, soul, and funk at the lovely Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Go hear the greats play, in any genre, when you have the chance. Stay curious and be inspired, friends!