Grant Richards
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| Webpage: grantrichardsjazz.com |
| Location: Portland, OR, USA |
| Description: A unique blend of many styles of jazz. Appealing to non jazz listeners. |
| Biography: At just 16 years of age, Grant Richards is one of the premier young jazz musicians in the Pacific Northwest. Since being introduced to the piano and the world of jazz at the age of 8, Grant has just released his first recording entitled Extra Step. Born and raised in Portland, Oregon, he has received praise from numerous sources including the Jazz Society of Oregon and many of the area’s top musicians. In 2004, Downbeat Magazine, the nationally renowned jazz publication, awarded him the 27th Annual Student Award for Solo Instrumentalist in the Junior High Division. He won yet again in 2005, this time for the 28th Annual Student Award for Best Jazz Arrangement, making him one of only two people to win an award in both years. Grant Richards won his third downbeat award, for jazz arrangement, this time in the high school division. He was also awarded Outstanding Performance in composition in the high school division.
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Press
Release:
Extra Step, Grant Richards, piano. A blind listen to this debut disc and one would be hard pressed to place the artist, but nonetheless be impressed by the players involved, including an impressive pianist who shows both chordal knowledge and a restrained interaction with his band. Knowing that the pianist is a 15 year old high school student would make any listener say WOW! Richards obviously has the talent to go as far as he wants in this business. Just listen to the complexity of the chords and melody on Richards-penned tunes like "Snowy Beach" and "Nighttime in Southeast," with their cascading lines and rhythmic involvement. He even explains the way he divided the rhythms on "Extra Step" in the liner notes, comparing the 5/4 gait to that of a giant. Of course, when you're this much of a prodigy, you need accomplished musicians to keep up and help foster your talent. Gordon Lee and engineer Randy Porter had a hand in building his talents, but saxophonist Rob Davis, bassist Dave Captein and rising star drummer Drew Shoals brought the best out of Richards' playing and tunes. With time and a bit more seasoning, Richards and his compositions can grow past the norm of what's out there and become one of the best on the jazz scene. Go hear him now before he goes and conquers the world. Half Rest Music, 2006; Playing Time: 50:26, HHHH |
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