Program Notes: "STEP"

"STEP" is dedicated to Indianapolis jazz pianist James "Step" Wharton who was a teacher of mine during my high school days. I remember being completely amazed by Step's terrific stride performances. I also recall being entranced by his playing of Chopin nocturnes. He played classical music infused with the energy of jazz and jazz with the elegant refinement of classical music. After all, Chopin was known for his impromptus! A time or two, Mr. Wharton would call me to the stage, provide the accompaniment, and I would create a melody and solo above his elegant harmonies. These sessions represent some of my finest musical memories. He later gave me lessons in harmony. In the piece you will hear tonight, the first sixteen bars are reminiscent of Step's piano harmonies scored for full concert band. I then add a melody and counterpoint just as I tried to do over twenty years ago.

Looking back over our lives, we often find special people who have inspired us and helped us shape the course of our own life. I still smile whenever I think of Step's smile and all that he taught me not only about music, but about the great camaraderie and warm human spirit that real music-making evokes.