News – January 7, 2015

Excited to be heading to the JEN Conference in San Diego a bit later today to play with the Alan Baylock Jazz Orchestra and also see and network with a lot of old friends and colleagues.

Have been reflecting on 2014 and so many wonderful things have happened:

Celebrated my 16th anniversary with my wife Victoria.

My kids celebrated their 6th and 3rd birthdays and they are awesome!

Started my 11th year teaching at SJSU.

The big Grammy win with Pacific Mambo Orchestra was certainly a high point – many thanks to Steffen, Christian Tumalan and all the PMO gang. Looking forward to our single!

Released a new record with my long time partner in musical crime, Paul Tynan with our group BiCoastal Collective.

Recorded a new record with the powerhouse group the Tommy Igoe Groove Conspiracy.

Got to record several singles with longtime guitarist from Iggy and the Stooges, James Williamson.

My sister in law Jennifer DeBenedetti got married.

My brother Chip Oliphant got engaged.

Had a great family vacation to Maui.

All in all, a GREAT year. I am a very lucky man to have so many wonderful friends and family members in my life with whom I can share my experiences.

Wishing you all the very best – A