B.A. in Music 1978, Yale University; MM in Jazz Composition and Arranging, UMass Amherst, 2008, where he was also a professor.
Spent years touring the world with groups led by Jaimoe of the Allman Brothers, Brazilian jazz stars Airto & Flora Purim, and others, and as a leader and educator, including at Yale, Northeastern, and BU. Has performed or recorded with George Benson, Pat Metheny, Paquito D’Rivera, the Springfield Symphony, and many others. Does cross-curricular teaching on the African roots of the music and cultures of the New World. D’Addario Performing Artist, Gemeinhardt Woodwind Artist, JodyJazz Artist.