Austin Symphony Orchestra Collaborations

A Lasting Collaboration:

Performing with the Austin Symphony Orchestra has been a defining experience, blending genres and eras into dynamic, unforgettable concerts. These performances have reaffirmed my passion for creating music that bridges classical orchestration with the improvisational spirit of jazz.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of performing as a feature soloist with the Austin Symphony Orchestra, blending jazz, pop, and film scores into unforgettable concert experiences. From timeless jazz standards to blockbuster film scores, these performances have showcased the powerful fusion of orchestral and jazz traditions.

Memorable Performances:

Jazz Meets Symphony:

Hartman Foundation Concerts in the Park – Austin Symphony Big Band, Long Center for the Performing Arts

“Lush Life” – Music of Duke Ellington & Billy Strayhorn December 28, 29, 2019
An unforgettable celebration of two jazz legends, featuring orchestral arrangements of classics like “Take the A Train” and “Satin Doll.” Adding Ellington’s signature style, I performed alongside tenor Bernard Holcomb, with full orchestral arrangements by Jeff Tyzik.

Film Music Meets the Stage:

“La La Land In Concert” with the Austin Symphony Orchestra
Bringing cinematic magic to life, I performed as a jazz piano soloist during this acclaimed production at the Long Center, merging film score brilliance with live orchestral power.

Pops & Holiday Classics:

  • 2017: Feature Soloist, Jazz Piano – I Heart the 80's! (Austin Symphony Pops Orchestra) Broadway Pops International Presents "I Heart the 80's" Program Video Killed the Radio Star - The Buggles 1999 - Prince Holiday - Madonna Every Breath You Take - Police 80's Medley: Whip It / Call Me / White Wedding / What I Like About You Sailing - Christopher Cross Let's Dance - David Bowie The Rose - Bette Midler Footloose - Kenny Loggins Michael Jackson Medley: Rock With You / Billie Jean / Thriller It's Still Rock and Roll to Me - Billy Joel Time After Time - Cyndi Lauper Faith - George Michael I've Had The Time if My Life - Jennifer Warner Medley: Waiting For a Girl Like You / Maneater / Babe Born in the U.S.A.

Spotlight Performances:

  • 2018: Feature Soloist, Jazz Piano – Ella & Louis (Austin Pops Symphony Orchestra)

  • 2018: Feature Soloist, Jazz Piano – The Rat Pack!: 100 Years of Frank!

As feature pianist with the Austin Symphony Orchestra, I had the honor of performing in "The Paul Simon Songbook," a celebration of Paul Simon’s unparalleled career. Under the baton of Peter Bay, this special concert explored Simon’s iconic catalog, spanning his timeless hits. Performing these legendary works with full orchestral arrangements was a dynamic and deeply rewarding experience, blending symphonic richness with the rhythmic and lyrical brilliance of Paul Simon’s music.

I performed 18 Paul Simon tunes, newly arranged by legendary Jeff Tyzik, with the Austin Symphony Pops Orchestra, Dec 29-30 at the Long Center-Palmer Events.
This is challenging! -countermelody on harpsichord for Scarborough Fair, a real jazz standard featuring Rhodes electric piano on Still Crazy After All These Years, and a classical piano solo throughout Bridge Over Troubled Water.
A lot of work, and a lot of fun!

four members of John Mills Times Ten performing at the Austin Symphony's "I Heart the 80's" Pops concert. Featured in tuxedos are Russell Scanlon on guitar, Hank Hehmsoth on keys, John Mills on saxophone, and Joey Colarusso on saxophone.

four members of John Mills Times Ten performing at the Austin Symphony's "I Heart the 80's" Pops concert. Featured in tuxedos are Russell Scanlon on guitar, Hank Hehmsoth on keys, John Mills on saxophone, and Joey Colarusso on saxophone.