Music Industry Pros To Judge Ridgefield BandJam

Ridgefield BandJam kicks off this Sunday(4/27) at 4pm at the Ridgefield Playhouse. Out of 30 entries, 8 bands have been chosen(4 middle school and 4 high school) to compete for some sweet prizes. I know I sound like a broken record when I say these kids are incredibly talented and they're worth spending $20 to watch them perform. I keep harping on that point because I've had the opportunity to be one of the music industry "professional" judges, so I speak from first hand experience and I'm honored to be called on again this Sunday.

THE JUDGES....... Linda Eder, Paul Pescoe, Vaneese Thomas, and myself. Linda's recording career began in 1991and she has 15 solo albums to her credit. The concert stage remains the mainstay of her career. She's performed for sold out crowds around the world including Carnegie Hall, The Towne Hall, Radio City Music Hall, and the Kennedy Center. Her collaborations include the late Oscar winning composer Marvin Hamlisch, Tony winner Michael Feinstein, and Keith Lockhart, the conductor for the Boston Pops Orchestra!

Guitarist, Paul Pescoe's credits include Madonna, Steve Winwood, musical director for Hall and Oates, C&C Music Factory, musical director and guitarist for Jennifer Lopez and he's toured with Joan Baez. Lou and I interviewed Paul this past week and he's extremely excited to be chosen as a BandJam 2014 judge!

Geffen Records released Vaneese Thomas's debut album in 1987 which included the top ten hit, "Let's Talk It Over." The daughter of  Rufus Thomas, Vaneese's talents as a singer, songwriter, producer, and actor have made her a sought after solo performer. She's worked with Sting, Stevi Wonder, Michael Jackson, Celine Dion, Eric Clapton, along with many others!

I am proud to be a part of such an esteemed panel of music professionals and I can't wait to hear the amazing talents of teenagers making music. You can too, just call 203-438-5795 or log onto www.ridgefieldplayhouse.org for your tickets. I guarantee you will be blown away!!