Rencontre avec Ross Stanley

Introduction

Hi, my name is Ross Stanley. I'm a keyboard player based in London.

Background

I'm not originally from London; I'm actually from down on the south coast near Southampton. However, I've been living here for the past 18 years.

If you've listened to any of the backing tracks, I'm performing on many of them, I hasten to add, from many years ago! It's been very enjoyable for me to return to these pieces and discover different things within them the second time around.

I originally went to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama as a classical piano player, and then quickly transferred to playing jazz piano. At that time, I also played classical church organ and now, bizarrely, I play jazz Hammond organ. I graduated in 2004 and have been working as a professional musician on the scene ever since.

Experiences

I've been very fortunate and lucky enough to travel the world, seeing all kinds of different places and continents. Most of all, I've had some incredible opportunities with the people I've ended up playing with over my career, particularly in various genres.

• Jazz: Played with the great Eddie Gomez in his quartet.
• Modern Saxophone: Played with Seamus Blake in his organ trio.
• Progressive Rock: Collaborated with Steve Howe in an organ trio.
• Funk: Toured with Maceo Parker.
• Blues Rock: Joined Tom Jones, during a period when his band was affectionately known as the Tom Jones Pub Band.

I've covered a wide array of styles, including:

• Folk Music
• Country Music
• Contemporary Classical Music

Teaching Role

My role in the course is to guide you through from grade one all the way up to grade eight.

In particular, we'll be focusing on:

• Blues Style
• A little bit of Rock
• A touch of Jazz Fusion

Conclusion

All that's left for me to say is: have fun with these pieces! There's some great material in here, and I know I've had a blast getting them together to teach you guys.

Best of luck, and I look forward to seeing you on the course!