Back when I was in college I studied music theory and orchestration with the late composer/conductor Max DiJulio (who, in his earlier days, played with the original Glen Miller Orchestra). At the same time, I was playing in a school guitar quartet and a popular acoustic group, all of which greatly influenced me and are clearly reflected in my music.

The first time I actually recorded and multi-tracked an entire tune by myself, I discovered an outlet that gave me total freedom. I could write a basic piece of music, record it, and then add parts as if I were orchestrating. I’m what’s called a ‘utilities’ guy, and I play enough guitar, bass, mandolin, banjo, and harmonica....to be dangerous! Which means many tunes were complete with just that choice of instrumentation. But, when needed, I would bring in one of my talented friends to add flute, sax or percussion to make a tune complete.

Check out some examples here: