Photo by Steven Sussman
BASS
An excellent bassist, Avery Sharpe is best known for his longtime association with the McCoy Tyner Trio. He originally played piano (starting when he was eight) and accordion, switching to electric (and eventually acoustic) bass a few years later. At the University of Massachusetts, Sharpe had the opportunity to study with Reggie Workman, and he gigged with Wynton Marsalis and Pat Metheny. Sharpe first teamed up with McCoy Tyner in his early-’80s sextet, and has been a member of the pianist’s trio since 1984. Avery has been a Litchfield Jazz Camp teaching artist since 2008. Currently he teaches at University of Massachusetts as well as being an Artist Associate in Jazz Bass, and Jazz Coach at Williams College. He is also Faculty Advisor for the Williams Gospel Choir and affiliated faculty for Africana Studies.
In 2009 he began teaching a special elective; Boot Camp for Jazz Musicians. It was so well received that he’ll be offering this optional elective again this summer. Start your day with Avery as he leads a program of physical exercise, which includes strength training, running and aerobics. Bring your sneakers, gym attire (T-shirt, shorts) and positive vibes! When: Sessions 3 & 4, Monday – Friday from 6:45am – 7:30am.
Avery’s residency at Litchfield Jazz Camp is funded in part by the New England States Touring program of the New England Foundation for the Arts, made possible with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts Regional Touring Program and the six New England state arts agencies.