Her Story

We are capable of the best version of ourselves and I certainly try very

hard to get there in my own life.

(c) Ned Radinsky 2009

I was a jazz studies major in college and grew up with Pat Metheny and other greats playing almost constantly in the house. I knew what jazz was before I knew about classical or rock or world music and I’ve always felt it is a part of who I am.  One day, not too long ago, I realized that almost none of my friends could name jazz artists who are making a difference in the genre. I knew I had to do something about this. Besides, other writers, agents and editors always say to write what you know. Well, I know how to travel, I know where the hot spots for jazz are and I certainly know the musicians who desperately need a fresh, supportive audience and outlook at who they are and what they’re about.

The New Face of Jazz not only tells you where to find these amazing artists, but also provides an autobiographical glimpse into their lives and what this music means to them. These artists are some of the most intelligent and beautiful people I’ve met and they’re not just “makin’ this stuff up,” as Homer Simpson would say.  I feel like I’m on a mission to share this with the world and bring that personal element to a new audience. I think the book will be successful in this way.  My wish is for it to be an inspirational point for all walks of life, not just musicians or writers.

These artists are accessible, kind and willing to teach you the life lessons they’ve learned and how they got to be where they are today. They’re not ultra rich or full of material ways, but passionate, lighthearted and more times than not, the very best ambassadors our country has to give the world. They need to be represented while they’re still alive.

I grew tired of jazz books that only talk about dead people. Jazz is not dead, it’s not a museum piece on your grandmother’s curio cabinet shelf, it’s a living, breathing art form that is lived out in the moment. And I like that idea.

In the moment.

I try to live that way myself on most days. Never looking back and pushing forward with a tenacious and vibrant head on my shoulders. I keep a fortune cookie ribbon in my wallet that says, “If you expect nothing but the best you often only get the best.” I think if we all lived like that we would be a lot further along in our world than we are now. We are capable of the best version of ourselves and I certainly try very hard to get there in my own life. Everyday life throws another challenge at me and everyday I knock it down and say ha! I can do that too

Cicily Janus and Adam Nussbaum

Cicily and Linda Moody

Cicily and Yotam Silberstein