Music for Minors: JazzReach!

A few weeks ago I was approached in regards to photographing a concert for JazzReach, a non-profit that aims to promote, perform and teach jazz music to young audiences. As a flautist myself, and an avid supporter of the arts, I was thrilled to be asked to document one of their performances. Not only did they perform some pretty spectacular jazz for their young viewers, but the kids themselves were really enthusiastic and excited, so it was a blast to photograph! I don't get to do 'concert photography' as often as I'd like, so it was a welcome change of pace, and the performers were supremely professional, not to mention some of the sweetest musicians I've come to meet. While I may have committed my career to the visual arts, performing music was also an instrumental aspect of my development in my high school days, and I am proud and ecstatic to see such a program providing those same opportunities to children today. You can support their important work here, and I would encourage educators to look into this program for their young students!

A Night for James Earl Jones

Near the end of January (where has the past month gone!?) I had the immense pleasure of working with the Drama League photographing their annual Gala Fundraising event. Every year, the League honors someone with their Lifetime Achievement award, and they selected none other than EGOT winner, Mr. Darth Vader himself, the larger-than-life James Earl Jones. Not only was I honored to be part of such a prestigious event, but I also had the opportunity to meet and photograph many prominent members of the theatrical community, which was truly an amazing experience. From the star-studded list of guests, to the fantastic live performances, it was a night I'll never forget, and hope to have the opportunity to attend again. Everyone had only words of the utmost respect and admiration for Mr. Jones as an artist, peer, and human being; Kelsey Grammer's near outburst of tears stood as a testament to the genuine and heartfelt words he expressed about James, and he was not alone in that night full of emotion and support. The Drama League put on a flawless event, and I am so proud and happy to have helped support all the important work they do for aspiring actors and actresses, as it is both necessary and progressive. Congratulations to them for hosting such a successful fundraising event, and may they have many more in the years to come.


People's Climate March!

Yesterday marked a momentous occasion; over 400,000 people marched collectively to raise awareness about climate change in NYC. Not only was I proud to be part of such an important and large movement, but I tried to capture the feel of the march as best I could with my camera. From protesting fracking, to shifting to solar energy, to eliminating greenhouse gas emissions, many positive words were promoted at this rally, and I hope it inspires some genuine and much-needed change from the steps of wall street to the doorsteps of our own homes. Our planet needs protecting, and this was a tremendous event that spoke mountains of truth.