Hybrid Jazz From Trish Hennessey - with Michael Wolff!

Where to begin with a stellar master of piano like Michael Wolff? That one of the most important aspects of his childhood was that he was classically trained - maybe there. Age 8. Drums at 12. Roots in California, New Orleans and Memphis - so you can tell that he was going to get involved in Jazz, right?

Michael enjoyed his college education in Cali - but he bolted to join Cal Tjader's band in the early 70's - and invitations to play blossomed from there. For the next two decades, our guest reveled in his projects with Cannonball Adderley, Sonny Rollins, SINATRA! - and more. Nancy Wilson asked him to be her Music Director in 1978. And Arsenio Hall persuaded Michael to become bandleader on Arsenio's popular late night show. The cream of the crop visited that show - there's video to prove it. Impressive, yes. And that was only the beginning!

In 1993, Michael released his self-titled debut. Music opportunities grew - work with Christian McBride & Tony Williams; the Wolff & Clark Expedition; film and TV credits, too. His wife, the acclaimed actress, Polly Draper, partnered with her husband on "The Tic Code" - about Michael's experience with Tourette's Syndrome. She wrote the screenplay and he composed the score. Their two sons followed in their parents artistic footsteps and became actors. You might remember "The Naked Brothers Band" on Nickolodeon? Alex and Nat Wolff. With Dad. And created by Polly. A true family affair!

That deep love resonated strongly when Michael became quite ill with a rare cancer some years ago. Both sons flew to their Dad's bedside, playing guitar and singing to him. Having recovered in the most amazing way, this beautifully expressive artist is grateful for every hour of every day. His latest, "Swirl", is reflective of both joy and solemnity. And gratitude. Join us on 5/19. FEEL the Heal :)