The Spirit of Jazz

Jeff asked Bill, "Is composing a new book like composing a jazz tune?" What follows is a lively conversation about writing Thriving on a Riff: Jazz and the Spiritual Life. How was the book put together? What was the process? How is the composition of the book an expression of creativity? Be sure to give this episode a listen. And if you are so inclined, contact our prefe

There are many extraordinary souls in the jazz community. Here is one to know: Ike Sturm. He is a bassist, composer, band leader, and creative spirit. What fun to speak with him about his formation as a musician, his creation of a jazz mass, and his earth-honoring duo called "Endless Field." It's a perfect episode for Earth Day - or Earth Year.Music: "Gloria&quo

BONUS - For Holy Week, we offer a re-broadcast of a previous episode. What does jazz have to do with Jerusalem? Especially the Jerusalem that Jesus entered for the last week of his life? That's the topic explored in this episode. Our co-hosts discuss the moods and senstitivities for a week of struggle and pain. They share live clips from the Presbybop Quartet as the band inter

In this episode, our co-hosts explore some of the themes from Thriving on a Riff: Jazz and the Spiritual Life, Bill Carter's new book. They chat about creativity, the power of suffering, and the hard work of spiritual formation in jazz and faith. Along the way, they share a bit of music.Be sure to check out Thriving on a Riff. You can find out more online at https://presbybop.

This episode continues our lively conversation with pianist Bill Mays. We explore his writing (and sometimes, his lack of “writing”) for the jazz trio. Bill shares some of the ways that he cultivates creativity in his life and tells us about his book of musical stories. Then the conversation moves from the podcast studio to the performing stage, as co-host Bill Carter asks the

We welcome pianist Bill Mays in the first of two episodes. He moves easily between the jazz and classical spheres as a composer, arranger, performer, and recording artist. Bill tells us about his artistic development, his experience performing with jazz stars, and the inspiration behind his music. He also shares two of his winsome tunes. Bill will return in Episode 35. Music in thi

Jazz performances are different every single time! Even if forty percent of the music (or more) is written down, each fresh performance varies. Bill and Jeff explore this curious aspect of jazz as they listen to studio and live recordings of two tunes recorded by the Presbybop Quartet: “Welcome Home” and “Streams of Mercy.” “Welcome Home” has been recorded on the “Fra

We welcome bassist David Chevan and pianist Warren Byrd. As co-founders of the Afro-Semitic Experience, they have created a dynamic ensemble rooted in the holy work of liberation. Whether they are updating African American spirituals, rearranging Jewish songs, or creating new music of their own, they will model what it means for jazz to address the work of justice. This show coinc

At the beginning of a new year, Jeff and Bill discuss their big projects. CLASSIC VINYL JAZZ is Jeff’s new radio show on the internet. He loves going through the LPs in his attic and sharing them with a new generation. The show broadcasts on Friday nights from 9 to 10 p.m. eastern on WBDY-LP and repeated on Saturday mornings from 10 to 11 a.m. eastern (link below).Bill unveils hi

As the year concludes, here is a bonus episode of new music. The Presbybop Quintet offers three fresh tunes from their International Tour of New England. Music includes: "Finding Our Way Home," "I Wonder As I Wander," and "God Rest Ye, Merry Gentle Waltz Kings." All music arranged or composed by Bill Carter and (c) Presbybop Music (BMI). Support the sh