Larry Goldings
With his signature Hammond organ style and versatility on many keyboards, Boston native Larry Goldings (b. 1968) has traversed not only the wide spectrum of jazz where he is perhaps best known, but also the worlds of funk, pop, and electronic music. High in demand as a sideman, Goldings' sound can be heard on scores of albums by artists in virtually every musical genre.
Over the years, Goldings has been closely associated with Michael Brecker, Jim Hall, Maceo Parker, Madeleine Peyroux, Pat Metheny, John Scofield, and since 2002, with folk/pop icon, James Taylor. In 2007, Goldings, Jack DeJohnette and John Scofield, received a Grammy nomination in the category of Best Jazz Instrumental Album Individual or Group for their album, Trio Beyond – Saudades (ECM).
In the mid 1990's, The New York Times described the organ trio of Larry Goldings, Peter Bernstein, and Bill Stewart as "the best organ trio of the last decade." The trio, which has now been together for over almost 30 years, has been recognized for charting new ground, with its synergistic playing, yet thoughtful music. They have recorded over a dozen albums, all of which display their distinctive sound, whether exploring the depths of jazz standards, or playing their own original compositions.
Goldings also is active as a composer, arranger, and producer. His compositions have been recorded by Michael Brecker, Till Brönner, Jack DeJohnette, Sia, Lea Michele, Bob Dorough, Jim Hall, Jane Monheit, Gaby Moreno, John Scofield, Curtis Stigers, and Toots Thielemans. Goldings' music also has been featured in television shows and motion pictures, including, "The Office," "Proof," "Funny People," and "Neighbors." He scored his first feature film, "Dealin' With Idiots" in 2013, directed by Jeff Garlin.
Peter Bernstein
Guitarist Peter Bernstein (b. 1967) has been an integral part of the world jazz scene since 1989. He has been sought out by musicians from all generations — touring with legendary players such as Jimmy Cobb, Lou Donaldson, Bobby Hutcherson, Lee Konitz, Sonny Rollins, and Dr. Lonnie Smith and jazz stars of today such as Eric Alexander, Brad Mehldau, Diana Krall, Nicholas Payton, and Joshua Redman. His recognizable guitar voice graces over a hundred recordings.
As a leader, Bernstein has recorded six highly regarded albums, displaying not only his masterful interpretations of standards, but also his inventive and lyrical compositions. His latest project, Monk (Criss Cross), shows Bernstein's deep understanding of the complexities of Thelonious Monk's music, while never becoming overshadowed by Monk's powerful personality. Bernstein also has taught at the Julliard School, Berklee College of Music, North Texas State University, the New School Jazz Program, and the Jazz Conservatory in Amsterdam.
Guitar legend Jim Hall said that Bernstein “is the most impressive young guitarist I’ve heard…He plays the best of them all for swing, logic, feel and taste, and has paid attention to the past as well as the future."
