News

The Kissers Album Three Sails

I recorded an album with The Kissers that’s out and available now. Three Sails has a great set of songs that are in a more traditional and acoustic vein that … More

Jon Drives a Ferrari

I like cars. A lot. And dogs, but this post is about cars. Larry (my duo partner) and I were hired to go on a week-long vintage car rally and … More

Johann Strauss Violin Play-Along for Hal Leonard

Check out the gold-plated statue of Johann and his cadre of fawning nymphs! I recorded seven waltzes and a polka for the upcoming Strauss violin play-along book from Hal Leonard. … More

Jazz at Five 20th Anniversary Show

Wednesday was the 20th Anniversary celebration of Madison’s “Jazz at Five” series. Gerri DiMaggio asked me to be a guest and we played a number of tunes to a big, … More

Shows with The Dang-Its

I played a couple shows this week with The Dang-Its. They’re a thinking person’s country band with good songs and great playing. I recorded a couple tracks on their newest … More

Mark Croft Band Live Recording at The Alley Stage

The Mark Croft Band played a show on Saturday at the Alley Stage in Mineral Point, WI. It’s a beautiful outdoor theatre and the backdrop for a three-camera video that … More

That’s Amore: Italian Songs Violin Play-Along
for Hal Leonard

Jake Johnson and I had a good time recording eight classic Italian songs for an upcoming Hal Leonard play-along book. I did my best instrumental impression of Dean Martin and … More

The JV Band rides again!

It’s been forever since I’ve led a show. I was asked to play a wedding reception in Madison and took this opportunity to put something new together. I asked some … More

NBC’s The Voice features Michael Brandmeier’s song

I recorded a song at Smart Studios with Michael Brandmeier a couple years ago called “Back in the Zone.” It’s a great tune that he co-wrote with Mark Croft. (I … More

Coaching the first Bluegrass Workshop at
Madison Music Foundry

I teach at two shops in Madison: Lane’s Lutherie and Madison Music Foundry. The Foundry just offered its first “Bluegrass Workshop.” Students auditioned for acceptance and placement and formed a … More