I was just notified that I am one of only ten Queens artists to be selected for the Queens Council on the Arts’ 2010 Individual Artist Initiative.  Through the IAI I will receive 1-on-1 consultation from a professional development specialist for 3 months this summer.  This is like gold for me at this point in my career.  The consultant will help me create a plan to reach my specific goals with my music and with the JFJO.

Acceptance into the program was based on a competitive application process open to artists of all disciplines and genres throughout the 2.2 million residents of Queens. For more info on the IAI and QCA:

http://queenscouncilarts.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogcategory&id=39&Itemid=296

Speaking of the album, we have made good progress lately.  Last week I added my solo trombone parts and gong parts.  For the latter I used my newest toy, a beastly 22″ Chinese ‘Wind Gong’, which adds a dramatic new dimension to the pieces it’s used on.  Also, the date is set for the final overdub session, where we’ll add the Korean percussion and Kayageum (zither).  I’m very excited about this session as it will give the music the full flavor I envision.