Rencontre Ross Stanley

Introduction

Hi, my name is Ross Stanley. I'm a keyboard player based in London. I'm not originally from London; I'm actually from down on the south coast near Southampton, but I've been living here for the past 18 or so years now.

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

Background

Originally, I 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 from Guildhall in 2004, and ever since I've been working as a professional musician on the scene.

I've been very fortunate, lucky enough to travel the world and see 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 all different genres.

Musical Experience

• Jazz: Playing with the great Eddie Gomez in his quartet.
• Modern Saxophone: Collaborating with Seamus Blake in his organ trio.
• Progressive Rock: Performances with Steve Howe.
• Funk: Touring with Maceo Parker.
• Blues-Oriented Rock: A tour with the band affectionately known as the Tom Jones Pub Band.

I've covered a lot of different styles, including:

• Folk music
• Country music
• Contemporary classical music

Course Overview

My role on the course is to guide you through from grade one all the way up to grade eight. We will be focusing primarily on:

• Blues style
• A 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 here. I know I've had fun getting it all together to teach you guys.

Best of luck and see you on the course!