North of Nowhere

NoN: Tell us about your background in music.

Don: I was taught clarinet by my Dad starting at age 9. He was a career Air Force pilot and Dixieland Jazz player. His mother played piano and sang on early radio programs. The “music gene” was about the only one I got from his side of the family. I played in concert band, orchestra and even marching band up through my freshman year in college. Like most woodwind players, I’m considered a “doubler”. I also play saxophone, as well as, a wind synthesizer and rhythm guitar.

NoN: Who were your musical influences?

Don: The usual suspects. Coltrane, Michael Brecker and Carlos McCoy. My all time favorite is Clarence Clemons from the E Street Band. Kenny G is a guilty pleasure. Our percussionist Scott recently turned me on to Grace Kelly and Leo P (2 Saxy). I was motivated to get seious about guitar after watching Joe Bonamassa on a PBS TV special. Obviously, the three Kings, Freddy, Albert and especially B.B., SRV, John Mayer, Mark Knopfler. The list goes on.

NoN: Why are you drawn to playing music?

Don: I feel like we don’t choose music it chooses us. If you know you know. There is a certain Zen state that is too rare. Trying to master something impossible to master. The older I get the more I appreciate the process of learning and working on things. The synergy of working with others whether it’s a small ensemble like North of Nowhere or a 100 piece orchestra is amazing.

NoN: Do you have a musical “philosophy”?

Don: I would say less is more and leave space for others. Whether it’s frequency or timing. That’s why I love B. B. King. He plays a single note and you know it’s him. Because it’s the perfect note at the perfect time. Being a horn player and rhythm guitarist, I feel I’m supporting the piece which usually means helping a vocalist or soloist shine.

NoN: Do you have a musical rant?

Don: I do. It’s volume. Most bands are too loud. Especially instruments and drums. I hate to see vocalist screaming to be heard. They have no room for dynamics and solos are lost in the mix.

NoN: Anything we didn’t cover?

Don: Just come see North of Nowhere if you get a chance. We are a fun, eclectic trio designed for smaller, intimate venues.