STonooka

Wilmington, DE

My parents took me to see Thelonious Monk at The Aqua Lounge in my hometown of Philadelphia for my 13th birthday in 1969. I was already a big fan but experiencing Monk and his music 'live' that evening set the trajectory for the rest of my life. I am a composer, jazz pianist, performer and improvisor. I believe that music can be a powerful force for social change. I want my music to stimulate and transform, to provide more awareness around themes of racial justice, feminism and environmental justice. I choose my subject matter in my work as a way to inspire people to make a difference in their own lives. I have been playing jazz and writing music for more then thirty five years. My career has taken me all over the world and I have played and performed with many great musicians. Additionally, I have have composed for film, dance and orchestra as well as produced and recorded my own compositions and recordings.