Every day is opening night.

On The Couch with… John Pizzarelli

 

On The Couch with … John Pizzarelli

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It takes a brave man to agree to be the very first subject for our brand new weekly “On The Couch with …” feature. John Pizzarelli is nothing if not brave. 

With his multi-faceted career as a jazz guitarist, vocalist and bandleader, the son of the legendary guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli, this New Jersey native has become one of the most recognizable faces and voices in contemporary jazz. Internationally known for his interpretations of classic standards, romantic ballads, and the cool jazz flavor he brings to his performances and recordings, Pizzarelli charms audiences with his warmth, sense of humor, and extraordinary musical chops.

He is a regular at the legendary Birdland jazz club, either appearing with his wife Jessica Molaskey or with “The Swing 7,” which includes his brother Martin Pizzarelli (Bass) Larry Fuller (Piano) Tony Tedesco (Drums) John Mosca (Trombone) Tony Kadleck (Trumpet) Andy Fusco (Alto Sax/Tenor Sax/Clarinet/Flute) and Kenny Berger (Baritone Sax/Bass Clarinet/Clarinet/Flute).

This week, John Pizzarelli and “The Swing 7” begin a five-night engagement at Birdland. Catch them Tuesday-Saturday, March 9-13 @ 8:30 & 11pm ($40 All Seating). For tickets, call (212) 581-3080 or online at www.birdlandjazz.com.

 

Q: What do you consider to be your best asset?
A: My wife.

Q: What was your proudest moment?
A: Being at the birth of my children.

Q: What is your favorite drink?
A: Bombay Gin martini, up/painfully dry/twist.

Q: What is your favorite food?
A: Anything Italian from Gino or Babbo.

Q: What is your favorite condiment?
A: 50 year old aged balsamic vinegar.

Q: What is your current obsession?
A: Meats from Salumi, in Seattle Washington.

Q: If you could give up one of your vices, what would it be?
A: Beer.

Q: What is the one professional accomplishment you long for most?
A: To be an EGOT winner, or just one of those 4.

Q: What is the one thing you waste too much money on?
A: Upgrades.

Q: What is the one activity you waste too much time doing?
A: Watching sports from 30 years ago on TV.

Q: What do you consider to be the single greatest threat to your health?
A: Bad music.

Q: What is the single best trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
A: To enjoy everything you do without worry.

Q: What is the single worst trait you inherited or learned from your parents?
A: Worry.

Q: What in the world most thrills you?
A: Aside from things I won’t discuss here, baseball.

Q: What current trend in popular culture most irritates you?
A: Men not wearing ties on TV or really anywhere.

Q: What was the single most embarrassing moment you’ve ever experienced on the job?
A: Luckily, I have managed to avoid this…so far.

Q: What is your favorite place in the world?
A: The “deluxe cabin” in the summer in upstate New York.

Q: What is the most important trait you seek in a romantic partner?
A: A great sense of humor.

Q: Do you prefer the company of dogs or cats?
A: Cats, but I am allergic.

Q: What would have to happen to make today the best day of your life?
A: Oprah would pay all my bills.

Q: What is your personal motto?
A: Music is good.