tom beckham - vibraphonist and composer

REBOUND REACTIIONS FRESHLY MINTED! The new CD "Rebound" is now available in CD format (remember that?..SO yesterday) at APRIA RECORDS.COM. It features eight new original compositions and an exciting band comprised of some great NYC sidemen who constantly seem to reinvent themselves: saxophonist Chris Cheek, pianist Henry Hey, bassist Matt Clohesy, and drummer Ferenc Nemeth. This CD was recorded in November of 2007. Look for upcoming appearances at this website and also my myspace page (which sometimes has more of-the-moment action). R . I . P . TIM RUSSERT R . I . P . ESBJORN SVENSSON
NEW CD NOW AVAILABLE "Rebound" 2008 Apria Records
"Center Songs" 2006 Sunnyside/Apria Records


"Suspicions" Fresh Sound New Talent #FSNT 075
Circle Wide: Tom is featured on the new George Schuller's Circle Wide CD,"Like Before, Somewhat After", on Playscape records. This is Schuller's second recording with his longstanding working band, Circle Wide (formerly known as Chump Change), and the long-awaited follow-up to its 2003 homage to Miles Davis' pre-fusion transitional period, Round 'Bout Now (PSR#J021302). Three decades after the demise of Jarrett's underappreciated ensemble, Circle Wide reinvents six of its favorite tracks from the Jarrett catalog, some of which it has been performing live in New York for years, and documents two Schuller originals inspired by the source material. PLAYSCAPE: Other Playscape CD's which Tom has appeared as asideman are "Spirits" by Michael Musillami, and Round About Now by George Schuller. BMOP: Tom is also on the new recording "Journey Into Jazz- Music of Gunther Schuller" by the Boston Modern Orchestra Project conducted by Gil Rose - now available for purchase thru the BMOP website. Pop note: Tom is featured on the new CD by Brooklyn-based group "The Grey Race." Produced by Jeff Hill featuring songs by Jon Darling. Saul's saga: Tom is featured on the CD from Jazz Passenger-violinist Sam Bardfeld entitled "Periodic Trespasses." The session features Tom Bckham, Ron Horton, Sean Conly, Satoh Takeshi - on the Fresh Sound New Talent record label.

Currently:

June/July: Circle Wide plays a CD release party at the 55 Bar on Jun. 18th so come on down and help us celebrate teh release of our second, and somewhat critically acclaimed CD. Also, I'll play a gig with guitarist Will Bernard Sunday Jun. 22 at NYC's Blue Owl Cocktail Room - I think They are going to be videotaping things for a docu-drama so try not to spill your cocktails, please.

On Jun 25th I'll be reading charts penned and otherwise reanimated by Joseph C. Phillips and the nine-piece Numinous Orchertra live at the Brooklyn Lyceum--great new spot in Brooklyn, NY for creative jazz/new music.

In July, I'll play with my trio, at the venerable Bar Next Door, old and new music for quiet, intimate diners and listeners. More stuff to come >check my schedule.

+ I've posted some new and old mp3's on the site >go

+ Extra-special props to the Vic Firth company for their continuous support.

+ Thanks to all of the supportive Radio-jockeys out there for your support of Center Songs!

They said:
"Center Songs seeks to carve out a space for his own strong voice -- influence meets invention. This album is rife with hooks that won't lose their wonder."--Kellen Yamanaka, KKJZ, 2007 full text >

"His exclamatory way with the mallets brings lots of fireworks to the instrument’s naturally mellow personality." - The Village Voice, 2006

"Beckham's work has a sound all its own -- which is what jazz is really about." Rhapsody.com, 2006

"Center Songs is well worth it. With terrific charts, a great sound and an impressive performance by Tom Beckham and crew, this is one entertaining album that succeeds in delivering a vibrant musical statement." --ejazznews.com (March 2007)

"A fine composer,...Center Songs tilts agreeably, but never topples."--Baltimore Magazine, 2007

Students:
If you would like to take private lessons at my studio in Brooklyn, through the mail, or through the internet then fill out the form below and/or call me at 917-653-6693

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