First Name

Ray

AIM/Yahoo/MSN

Yahoo

College/University:

University of Iowa

I am here for:

Gigs, Educational Purposes, Meet Players, Networking

Whom I want to meet:

Musicians who are interested in collaborations, gigs and educational endeavors. Agents and promoters. In general, people who have a passion for jazz and life.

Employment Status

Self-Employed

Occupation:

Musician/Clinican/Educator

About Me:

Love my home life and family. Have a passion for music and jazz in particular. Enjoy the life of a performer and clinician (teaching and sharing this music with young people). Work at living healthy, exercise and proper nutrition. Writing music, reading and thoroughly enjoy practicing.

Musical Background & Experience:

Ray is a saxophonist, composer, arranger who performs internationally and over the years he has worked as a featured artist, leader and sideman with world known musicians such as; John Gilmore, Dr. Art Davis, Benny Powell, Steve Turre, Clifford Adams, Wayne Dockery, Joe Lee Wilson, John Betch, Calvin Hill, Michael Cochrane, Sun Ra Arkestra and others. He spends time on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean performing as well as teaching in universities, colleges and schools.

In 2005 Ray founded and is Executive Director of Cross-Cultural Connection, Inc. a 501 (c)3 non-profit organization. The mission of "CCC" is to promote jazz performance and education in schools, colleges and community institutions. Bringing jazz to young people ensures the presence of another generation of performers, audience and appreciators. By encouraging academic excellence, self respect, social consciousness and cultural involvement in young people they are inspired to become productive citizens of the world.

Website:

http://www.rayblue.com

Website:

http://www.myspace.com/raybluecrosscontinentalspirit

Why I love jazz:

It is inside of me.

Books:

Biographies

Television:

Documentaries

Movies:

Historical