Vernon’s Brandon Schmor is about to bring down the house at the Vernon Jazz Club Saturday.
Schmor is a self-taught pianist and loves to write music, even though he has never been formally trained in traditional music theory. His music is created in his mind, not on paper. Often he can listen to a song just once or twice and is then able to instantly reproduce it on the piano with his own twist.
“My technique and signature playing style was developed mostly through inspiration,” said Schmor. “Not only have I taken inspiration from artists such as Dr. John and Jerry Lee Lewis, but also from the instrument itself.”
When Schmor was about 12, he got his first real piano. It was a massive old upright, which possessed a unique mandolin attachment that created a twangy, saloon piano tone when activated. Every detail, every note pressed, told a story. This honky-tonk sound became the foundation of his musical style, and he has been collecting antique and historic keyboard instruments ever since.
Joining Schmor at the Vernon Jazz Club is guitarist Paul May, drummer Lonnie Burma, and bassist Brian McMahon. This special collection of talented musicians brings great vitality to the stage. Their special connection with their respective instruments is awe inspiring. With Schmor’s band, musicality is the key and the audience are the benefactors.
May has been a member of the Vernon music community since 1969. He has played alongside most local musicians and plays a variety of styles. May is known as the guitarist for the Legendary Lake Monsters and for his tendency to bring too many guitars to a gig. His recent retirement has given him the chance to spend more time on his musical interests.
Throughout his extensive career, Burma has had the pleasure of performing with artists such as Tommy Banks, Pat Labarbera, Ian McDougall, Phil Nimmons, and others. His ability to function in almost any musical style, combined with a multi-percussionist capacity, offers much variety for any musical situation. McMahon has actually had only one lesson on bass, from the legendary Rene Worst. Since then, he has played bass with Zingano, The Michael Garding Big Band, Sherman Doucette, Harpdog Brown, George Robert, Phil Dwyer, and The Grant Family. McMahon has also played bass in the pit at the Powerhouse Theatre, as well as many jazz gigs with assorted players up and down the valley.
Schmor and the band take the stage at the Vernon Jazz Club (3000-31st St.) Saturday at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7:15 p.m. Cash only bar on site. Tickets are $20 online at www.vernonjazz.com and at Expressions of Time (2901-30th Ave), with a $5 rebate at the gig for VJS members.
