Last week I had the pleasure of of being an instructor at Jordan Rudess Keyfest. Jordan is best known as the keyboard wizard of the band Dream Theater. I’ve known Jordan since I was a teenager attending his Korg keyboard clinics at local music stores in New Jersey. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his craft, and is one of the most prolific and proactive musicians I know. In addition to his prog-rockin’, he is also active in music technology and has a brand of iOS music apps including GeoShred and MorphWiz.
Last year was the first Keyfest, held over five days at the lovely Full Moon Resort in Big Indian, New York. I was thrilled to be invited to give classes on keyboard technique, improvisation, and group playing. Between Jordan’s massive clout in Progressive Rock circles, combined with my associations with groups like Yes, Camel, and Renaissance, the week definitely leaned on the prog side of music. It wasn’t limited to that, however, and I was happy to return for this year’s Keyfest which was held on June 19-23. Other instructors on hand were Adam Holzman (Steven Wilson band, Miles Davis), Steve Hoerlick of Ask.Audio, and Jack Hotop, the man responsible for programming many of the preset sounds of generations of Korg keyboards.
Jamming with Jordan at my welcome concert
It was a small but enthusiastic group of students from around the world. We had musicians from Japan, Switzerland, Chile, Mexico, Columbia, Spain, and all over the US. It was an impressive group full of talent and enthusiasm, ranging from teenagers to seasoned veterans in the music scene. Inspiring for students and instructors alike.
They came to play!
My only regret was that I couldn't stay the whole week. After the first couple of days, I headed home and did a quick turnaround to play a concert with Dennis DeYoung and the Music of Styx (more on that in the next post). Nevertheless, I had a great time and hope to do it again in the future.
Until next time, be well!
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