Edition #34 – Joe McCarthy answers 7 questions

by | Nov 1, 2022

1. Why are you a musician?

Music has been my lifelong mission. It is who I am.

2. Who are your musical inspirations?

My inspirations come in many forms, primarily from forward thinkers who strive to create outside of the box with success, people who are honest and sincere with their intent and purpose and the groove of everyday life that pushes me to be better.

3. What is your practice routine?

I practice everyday, depending on my schedule, usually between 2-6 hours.

4. Why did you make this album?

The Pan American Nutcracker Suite
By Joe McCarthy’s New York Afro Bob Alliance Big Band

I feel our adaptation of this iconic masterwork was worth documenting and sharing. It was a labor of love to work as a team to create a composition that would transport the listener to a completely different place through a very different lens.

5. What were the biggest obstacles in making this music?

Scheduling, time and money. Large ensemble projects have so many moving parts, but in the end everything came together so beautifully because everyone involved gave the music exactly what it needed.

6. Who is featured on the album?

The New York Afro Bop Alliance Big Band. A stellar cast of A list NYC musicians featured prominently through great writing, interpretation and improvisation.

7. Where may we find you online?

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