Josh Grossman's blog

Postage, duplication, office supplies - these are unavoidable costs for independent musicians. The requirement to do this sort of self-promotion, although not a surprise, necessitates a bizarre kind of math.

This Thursday, March 6, we're pleased to support The Heavyweights Brass Band's CD release concert at Lula Lounge as part of our TDJ Special Projects initiative.

We're in for a treat next Thursday, March 6, when the Israeli Jazz Showcase takes the stage at The Rex Hotel.

It's my pleasure to write today about the first TDJ Special Projects presentation of 2014 - the Nancy Walker Quintet CD release, February 27 at Gallery 345.

I'm a bit late with these remarks (more on that in a moment), but I'd like to take a minute to congratulate all of this year's JUNO nominees, and especially those in the three jazz categories (with honourable mention to my Ottawa Jazz Festival counterpart Petr Cancura for his nomination in the Instrumental Album of the Year category).

Happy new year! I hope you all were able to find a bit of time over the holidays for a break, a few deep breaths, and some reinvigoration. After a wonderful eight days in Saskatchewan, I was ready to go for the New Year.

What, possibly, could Nicholas Payton and Louis C.K. have in common?

I admit to being a bit distracted today due to certain...um...developments at the city level, along with an impending deadline for a substantial grant application. So I've run out of time for a blog post of much substance. But hey - this is pretty neat-o:

One piece of advice I've held onto - through various fundraising seminars and reading material - is that the pitch needs to be passionate. So whether it's snail mail, email, crowdsourcing or in-person, it's vital to speak passionately about the project. Without passion, what is the hook? Why would someone sign on?

Right around now is when I start listening to submissions in earnest...and I thought I would share my thoughts on this part of the process.