As we get a better handle on COVID-19…

…more performance opportunities are slowly coming back.

A few weeks ago, I got the opportunity to perform with trombonist Harry Forlenza-Bailey and a band consisting of many old friends that I haven’t seen since before the pandemic lockdowns.

Harry, who I know from my time at Temple University, had just moved back to PHL from Colorado and this was his first concert back!

The pianist, Nathaniel Hawk, has played in my band many times. Drummer Ben Singer and I used to be regulars at Rob Henderson’s jam session at LaRose Jazz Club. Saxophonist Yesseh Furaha-Ali is one of the premier saxophonists in Philadelphia, with whom I’ve shared many stages.

Performing with these guys felt like old-times when we used to play the late-set at Chris’ till who-knows-when in the morning.

Things have changed for us all since the pandemic, that I am certain, but reconnecting with our pasts is always possible.