>I am thinking of studying full-time as I now have the time and means to do it
>after working for 20 years, mostly as a freelance technical writer. I can
>play walking lines on the upright, can solo after a fashion, and I have some
>knowledge of harmony and substitutions, can sit in with other players, have
>played on stage in a piano trio and with a singer (all this is to give you
>some idea of my level).
>
>I took up music seriously just over 3 years ago so I am pleased enough with
>my progress. However I would like to be a more solid player as well as a
>better reader, and aim for good amateur/semi-pro level (pro is probably
>unrealistic at my age - 43). Opportunities for sitting in with better players
>are limited here in the south of France (a long way from Paris, and not much
>live jazz in clubs). I would be willing to travel to the USA to go to school,
>but I hear conflicting reports about the music schools. Have you any ideas or
>recommendations as to how I might best go about studying? Is going to a music
school a good idea? Any particular school or teacher?
I would welcome private e-mail if anyone does not want to comment
publicly.
>Thanks again to Reed for maintaining this great list.
Regards
John