tag:stevetorok.com,2005:/blogs/news?p=2News2023-10-30T05:25:07-07:00Steve Torokfalsetag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607122015-10-04T17:00:00-07:002023-12-10T08:33:42-08:00JazzED Magazine Review of Eye to Eye
<p><a href="http://www.jazzedmagazine.com/%E2%80%A6/hot-%E2%80%A6/hotwax-september-2015/" target="_blank" data-imported="1">http://www.jazzedmagazine.com/…/hot-…/hotwax-september-2015/</a></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607112014-12-31T16:00:00-08:002022-09-07T08:04:10-07:00Performances and Presentations at JEN in 2015
<p>MOJO (MiraCosta Oceanside Jazz Orchestra) was one of two California Community College Jazz Ensembles selected to perform at the Jazz Education Network Conference in January, 2015. Steve also presented a clinic demonstrating an alternative lecture model for the jazz history course. The featured lecture was The Music of Wayne Shorter (1959-1967). It included the MiraCosta Jazz Collective performing live examples of his works.</p>
<p>The Dan Siegel / Steve Torok project also performed along with MiraCosta faculty Bob Boss and Justin Grinnell.</p>
<p><a title="Link to JEN Conference" href="https://jazzednet.org" target="_blank" data-imported="1">https://jazzednet.org</a></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607102013-11-15T16:00:00-08:002023-12-10T11:08:37-08:00Siegel-Torok Project
<p>Dan Siegel and Steve Torok will be performing on Saturday November 16. Dan is a world renowned contemporary jazz artist and a MiraCosta faculty member. Check him out at <a href="https://mail.miracosta.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=7c2112f2acbb4e8bb8713253ad15ac8d&URL=http://www.dansiegelmusic.com/" target="_blank" data-imported="1">www.dansiegelmusic.com</a>. The event is sponsored by the MiraCosta College music department. Tickets and info at 760-795-6815 and <a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/buytix" target="_blank" data-imported="1">www.miracosta.edu/buytix</a></p>
<p>As part of the event there will be master classes presented by the members of the band and our front of house engineer. The band members for the concert are <a href="http://www.grantgeissman.com" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Grant Geissman</a> (guitar), <a href="http://www.brianbromberg.net" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Brian Bromberg</a> (bass), and <a href="http://rayfordgriffin.com" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Rayford Griffin</a> (drum set). The engineer is Javier Alcaraz. Follow the links for more about these outstanding professionals. A horn section selected from MiraCosta Jazz and Commercial music students will also be featured.</p>
<p>All master classes will begin at 4 PM.</p>
<p>Having world class professionals available in this way is a singular and quite amazing opportunity for students of music and the community at large. Please spread the word!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/0dd1cb0faa16047892b986f16740d52619dff826/original/siegel-torok-nov-2013-v6.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6NTAweDY0NyJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="647" width="500" /></p>
<p><a href="/files/856395/siegel-torok-nov-2013-v6.pdf" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Download a Siegel-Torok_Concert Poster</a></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607092013-10-24T17:00:00-07:002023-12-10T10:15:45-08:00Lecture: Art Blakey & the School of Hard Bop
<p style="text-align: left;" align="center"><strong>Professor Steve Torok will be presenting a lecture on Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers with the MiraCosta Jazz Collective performing live examples of some of Blakey’s greatest tunes! Friday, October 25<sup>th</sup> 2013, at 1pm in room 201 at the San Elijo campus. Parking and admission is free! Presentation is open to students and the community!</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;" align="center"><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;" align="center"><strong>Visit our website to see a brochure of all of our upcoming events for Fall 2013:</strong><strong><a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/lifeatsanelijo" data-imported="1">www.miracosta.edu/lifeatsanelijo</a></strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/5e1fad8ea2ae29909061fcfc4a8e61de37a0dbd3/original/image002.png/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6NzkyeDYwOSJd.png" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="609" width="792" /></strong></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607082013-05-03T17:00:00-07:002023-12-10T08:45:14-08:00Oceanside Jazz Festival at MiraCosta College featuring Ernie Watts
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/2e1a22a88cae9964c201581c8562903b55979662/original/ernie-watts-48f73431f1af9.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MjAweDIxNSJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="215" width="200" /></p>
<p>"...an intense and masterful jazz improviser who has developed his own sheets of sound approach along with a distinctive and soulful sound. Ernie Watts has developed into one of the most powerful of tenormen with complete control over his horn and the ability to bring intensity and passion (plus taste) to any musical situation."</p>
<p><strong>Scott Yanow/All Music Guide</strong></p>
<p><strong></strong>On Saturday, May 4 saxophonist Ernie Watts will be featured in concert with the MiraCosta Jazz Collective and the MiraCosta Oceanside Jazz Orchestra. Ernie is a one of the most respected and influential tenor saxophonists of the post-Coltrane era. A two time Grammy award winner he has performed and recorded with many of the pop and jazz world’s biggest stars including Thelonius Monk, Oliver Nelson, Charlie Haden, Buddy Rich, Aretha Franklin, Rolling Stones, Marvin Gaye, Steely Dan, Frank Zappa, Pat Metheny, and hundreds of others. The concert will feature Steve Torok's arrangements of Ernie’s original music for the Jazz Collective, plus familiar standards.</p>
<p>Earlier on Saturday as part of the Oceanside Jazz Festival Ernie will present a free jazz improvisation clinic and Q & A at 1 PM. The evening concert begins at 7:30 PM.</p>
<p>Info and Tickets: <a href="http://www.miracosta.edu" target="_blank" data-imported="1">http://www.miracosta.edu</a></p>
<p>For more information please visit <a href="http://www.erniewatts.com/" target="_new" data-imported="1">http://www.erniewatts.com/</a> and email <a href="mailto:jazzband@miracosta.edu" data-imported="1">playjazz@miracosta.edu</a>.</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607072012-04-06T17:00:00-07:002022-05-25T23:43:10-07:00Eye to Eye CD Release Concert!!
<p style="margin-left: 20px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Steve's new CD, produced by Steve Torok and Dan Siegel, will be released in April!</p>
<p style="margin-left: 20px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Please attend a special concert to celebrate the event.</p>
<p class="bold" style="margin-left: 20px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Saturday, April 7 • 7:30 p.m.</p>
<p style="margin-left: 20px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Join Steve Torok as he celebrates the release of his new recording with a special concert. The music chosen for the recording and for this performance represents an eclectic array of Steve’s works: original tunes, arrangements of standards, new jazz arrangements of Star Wars music (originally written for Lucasfilm, LTD), and music with elephant percussion! Featuring an all-star band with Carmen Grillo (Tower of Power/Chicago), Rayford Griffin (Jean Luc Ponty, Dave Koz, Anita Baker, Michael Jackson), Dan Siegel (Bela Fleck, Chaka Khan, Herbie Hancock), Smitty Smith (Natalie Cole, Boney James, Gerald Albright), Yvette Cason (Dreamgirls, Stevie Wonder), and a horn section of MCC's finest players! Come celebrate with us!!</p>
<p style="margin-left: 20px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Guest artists will offer free master classes at 4:30 pm in the Concert Hall.</p>
<p class="bold" style="margin-left: 20px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Concert Hall, Bldg. 2400, Oceanside Campus<br>General admission, $10; students/seniors/staff, $8</p>
<p class="bold" style="margin-left: 20px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Order tickets at<a style="color: #4c505c;" href="http://www.miracosta.edu/officeofthepresident/pio/fullartevents.html#music" data-imported="1">http://www.miracosta.edu/officeofthepresident/pio/fullartevents.html#music</a></p>
<p class="bold" style="margin-left: 20px; line-height: 20px; text-align: left;">Download a free poster (<a style="color: #4c505c;" href="http://www.stevetorok.com/publicfiles/Steve_Torok_CD_Release_Concert_Poster.pdf" data-imported="1">Steve_Torok_CD_Release_Concert_Poster.pdf</a>)</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607062011-12-06T16:00:00-08:002023-10-30T05:25:07-07:00Jazz Concerts at MiraCosta this Weekend
<div dir="ltr">The Jazz Collective, Latin Jazz Orchestra, and the MiraCosta<a></a><a></a> Oceanside Jazz Orchestra are performing this weekend in the MCC Theatre. Tickets at <a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/officeofthepresident/pio/fullartsevents.html#music" data-imported="1">http://www.miracosta.edu/officeofthepresident/pio/fullartsevents.html#music</a>
</div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/c8a568d04b4aaca1336238397a30a40f81f642e7/original/combined-jazz-fall-2011-resized.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6NDYxeDYwMCJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="combined_jazz_Fall_2011_resized.jpg" height="600" width="461" /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<span class="bold">MiraCosta Jazz Collective / MiraCosta Latin Jazz Orchestra</span><br>Friday, December 9 & Saturday, December 10 at 7:30 p.m. <br>Directed by Steve Torok & Mario Gonzales <br>Theatre, Bldg. 2000, Oceanside Campus<br>General admission, $10; students/seniors $8</div>
<div dir="ltr">
<p>The MiraCosta Jazz Collective and Latin Jazz Orchestra combine forces for a high energy evening of music. The Collective has learned a ton of music this semester and the audience will pick our set!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.stevetorok.com/publicfiles/combined_jazz_Fall_2011.pdf" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Download a poster for this concert.</a></p>
<p> <img src="http://www.stevetorok.com/images/MOJO_Fall_2011_resized.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="MOJO_Fall_2011_resized.jpg" /></p>
<p><span class="bold">MiraCosta Oceanside Jazz Orchestra</span><br>Sunday, December 11 at 3 p.m.<br>Directed by Steve Torok <br>MiraCosta College Theatre, Oceanside Campus<br>General admission, $10; students/seniors $8</p>
<p>One show only! Pianist Dan Siegel will join MOJO for an eclectic and exciting afternoon concert showcasing the music of Maria Schneider, Kenton, Basie, Ellington,and John Clayton, plus some Christmas faves. New arrangements by Mike Tomasiak (MCC music major) and Steve Torok will also be performed.</p>
</div>
<div dir="ltr"><a href="http://www.stevetorok.com/publicfiles/MOJO_Fall_2011.pdf" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Download a poster for this concert.</a></div>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607052011-10-04T17:00:00-07:002021-12-25T12:55:12-08:00Siegel-Torok Project In Concert
<p>Just wanted to reach out and let everyone know about an exciting concert and master class hosted by the Jazz and Commercial music program at MiraCosta College. Those that attend the master class will get into the concert for $5. <a href="/files/856394/siegel-torok-jazz-concert.pdf" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Download a poster here.</a> And please spread the word.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.stevetorok.com/images/Steve_and_Dan_resized.JPG" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Steve_and_Dan_resized.JPG" height="421" width="291" /> </p>
<p><strong>Siegel/Torok Project in Concert<br></strong>Saturday, October 8 at 7:30 p.m. <br>Concert Hall, Bldg. 2400, Oceanside Campus<br>General admission, $10; Students/seniors $8<br><br>MiraCosta College Music faculty members Dan Siegel and Steve Torok present an exciting evening of high energy jazz. Dan has 19 solo albums, and hundreds of other producing, arranging, composing and performing credits in his extensive recording career. Steve has recorded and performed with Stevie Wonder, Temptations, Barry Manilow, and other well known musicians. An all-star band will accompany Dan and Steve. Guitar: Alan Hines (<a href="http://allenhinds.com/" data-imported="1">http://allenhinds.com/</a>), Bass: Melvin Davis (<a href="http://www.melvinleedavis.com/" data-imported="1">http://www.melvinleedavis.com/</a>), and drum set: Rayford Griffin (<a href="http://rayfordgriffin.com/" data-imported="1">http://rayfordgriffin.com/</a>). Free master classes with these guest artists will be presented at 5 pm in the concert hall.</p>
<p> For more info see <a href="http://www.dansiegelmusic.com/" data-imported="1">http://www.dansiegelmusic.com/</a> and <a href="http://www.stevetorok.com/" data-imported="1">http://www.stevetorok.com/</a> <br><br>To buy tickets, go to <a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/buytix%20or%20call%20760.795.6815" data-imported="1">http://www.miracosta.edu/buytix or call 760.795.6815</a>.</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607042011-08-20T17:00:00-07:002022-01-05T17:46:24-08:00MiraCosta College Jazz Bands Need You
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/ee604a194a29b4077b31f0220c65fe19396678d4/original/miracosta-jazz-bands-need-you-resized.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6NDY0eDYwMCJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="MiraCosta_Jazz_Bands_Need_You_resized.jpg" height="600" width="464" /></p>
<p>Steve directs both the MiraCosta Jazz Collective and MOJO (MIraCosta Oceanside Jazz Orchestra). Both the big band MOJO and the smaller Collective perform in styles including hard bop, blues, Latin, and funk. The bands gets back to work over the next few weeks. Please consider joining!</p>
<p><strong>The bands have performed with Tom Scott, Ernie Watts, Harry Kim, and Reggie Hamilton, among other well know jazz musicians. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Jazz Collective:</strong> Audition at first rehearsal (Monday, August 22 at 12:30 pm) or email to schedule another time.</p>
<p><strong>MOJO:</strong> Audtion Tuesday, August 23 at 6:30 pm or email to schedule another time. Rehearsals begin Tuesday, September 6.</p>
<p>Please contact Steve Torok at <a href="mailto:storok@miracosta.edu" data-imported="1">playjazz@miracosta.edu</a> with questions or for info about auditions.</p>
<p>And please spread the word!</p>
<p>Click to download a <a href="http://www.stevetorok.com/publicfiles/Players_wanted.pdf" data-imported="1">MiraCosta Jazz Bands Poster</a></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607032011-03-05T16:00:00-08:002022-01-20T05:35:54-08:002011 Oceanside Jazz Festival at MiraCosta College
<p> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/012b713daca4f7d78c315726f1e9ca8bcb338a47/original/2011-oceanside-jazz-fest-835x1280-resized.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6NDI1eDYzMSJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="2011_Oceanside_Jazz_Fest__835x1280__resized.jpg" height="631" width="425" /></p>
<p>The Oceanside Jazz Festival at MiraCosta College is Friday and Saturday, April 15-16 2011. High school and collegiate level groups will be performing all weekend.</p>
<p>Friday night's concert features the Ron McCurdy Collective (with MCC Prof Matt Falker) and the MiraCosta College vocal jazz students. Info about Ron's group at <a href="http://www.ronmccurdy.com/rcvje.htm" target="_blank" data-imported="1">http://www.ronmccurdy.com/rcvje.htm</a></p>
<p>I will be directing the events on Saturday. That night's concert features MOJO (MiraCosta Oceanside Jazz Orchestra) and the MCC Jazz Collective in concert with trumpeter Harry Kim. Info about Harry at <a href="http://www.harry-kim.com" target="_blank" data-imported="1">http://www.harry-kim.com</a></p>
<p>Please see <a href="http://www.oceansidejazzfestival.com/" target="_blank" data-imported="1">http://www.oceansidejazzfestival.com/</a> for ticket info, band applications, and more about the festival. Or directly purchase tickets <a href="https://www.vendini.com/service/tickets/viewMember.html?offset=0&updateList=1&m=" target="_blank" data-imported="1">at this link</a>.</p>
<p>Hope to see you there!</p>
<p>Download a <a href="http://www.stevetorok.com/publicfiles/2011_Oceanside_Jazz_Fest.pdf" target="_blank" data-imported="1">2011 Oceanside Jazz Fest Poster</a></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607022010-05-20T17:00:00-07:002021-12-15T22:01:07-08:00MOJO & Jazz Collective in Concert
<div dir="ltr"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/97076f1c4d9f537605fe95c318193bae32463751/original/mojo-and-collective-in-concert-resized.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6NDE5eDUxNiJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="MOJO_and_Collective_in_Concert_resized.jpg" height="516" width="419" /></div>
<div dir="ltr">The Jazz Collective and the MiraCosta<a></a><a></a> Oceanside Jazz Orchestra will be performing this weekend in the MCC Theatre. Both shows are at 7:30 p. Several of the students, who have been in what became the Collective since I began working here two years ago, are successfully transferring<a></a> to universities to continue their music education. We are sending them off with a retrospective of the music performed over the last two years, which was selected with their input as well as the rest of the students. We also have some new things to share, including a brand new original arrangement of the standard "The Best is Yet to Come." </div>
<div dir="ltr"> </div>
<div dir="ltr">So the line-up of tunes, which changes night to night, offers a bit of something for everyone...swing, hard bop, blues, funk, and high energy Latin. We are performing tunes spanning many decades and made famous by Duke Ellington, Thelonius<a></a><a></a> Monk, Art Blakey<a></a><a></a>, Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, John Coltrane, Buddy Rich, Oliver Nelson, Thad Jones, Horace Silver, Quincy Jones, Frank Sinatra, John Clayton, Ernie Watts, and even Bill Withers and the Average White Band. Many are original arrangements which were created specifically for the bands at MCC.</div>
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<div dir="ltr">Info and tickets at <a href="https://mail.miracosta.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=b63f40518adf43748ad72006f64a5876&URL=http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/Events/index.htm" target="_blank" data-imported="1">http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/Events/index.htm</a>
</div>
<p><a href="http://www.stevetorok.com/publicfiles/MOJO_and_Collective_in_Concert.pdf" data-imported="1">Download a Poster</a></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607012010-04-27T17:00:00-07:002023-12-10T11:03:09-08:00Steve to Perform with Contemporary Jazz Star Dan Siegel
<p> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/343fb834ae9208c4067b2e841a40617c10c9b9f4/original/dansiegel-v2-resized.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MjgweDUxMyJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="dansiegel_v2_resized.jpg" height="513" width="280" /></p>
<p>Steve will be performing in concert Saturday, May 1 with contemporary jazz star Dan Siegel. Dan is a world renowned contemporary jazz artist with an amazing resume. Check him out at <a href="https://mail.miracosta.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=7c2112f2acbb4e8bb8713253ad15ac8d&URL=http://www.dansiegelmusic.com/" target="_blank" data-imported="1">www.dansiegelmusic.com</a>. The event is sponsored by the MiraCosta College music department. Tickets and info at <a href="https://mail.miracosta.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=7c2112f2acbb4e8bb8713253ad15ac8d&URL=http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/Events/index.htm" target="_blank" data-imported="1">http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/Events/index.htm</a>.</p>
<p>As part of the event there will be master classes presented by the members of Dan's band and his front of house engineer. Dan's band members for the concert are Allen Hinds (guitar), Ernest Tibbs (bass), Dave Hooper (drum set), and Steve Torok (sax). See below for more about these outstanding professionals.</p>
<p>All master classes will begin at 4 PM.</p>
<p>Having five world class professionals available in this way is a singular and quite amazing opportunity for students of music and the community at large. Please spread the word!</p>
<p><strong>The Band</strong></p>
<p>Dan Siegel (piano): 22 solo recordings, Has worked with Glenn Frey (The Eagles), Chaka Khan, Berlin, Philip Bailey (Earth Wind & Fire), Hugh Masekela, Joe Sample, Herbie Hancock, the London Symphony Orchestra, and a who’s who of the smooth jazz world.</p>
<p>Allen Hinds (Guitar): Has worked with Patti Austin, Mary J. Blige, Natalie Cole, Roberta Flack, Randy Crawford, Vince Gill, Amy Grant, The Crusaders, Bobby Caldwell, James Ingram, Eric Marienthal, Boney James, and more. <a href="http://allenhinds.com/" data-imported="1">http://allenhinds.com/</a></p>
<p>Ernest Tibbs (Bass): Has worked with James Ingram, Natalie Cole, Allan Holdsworth, Andy Summers, David Benoit, Tom Scott, Eric Marienthal, Ronnie Laws, Jeff Lorber, Lee Ritenour, Brian Bromberg, Brandon Fields, Norman Brown, and more <a href="http://www.ernesttibbs.com/" data-imported="1">http://www.ernesttibbs.com/</a></p>
<p>Dave Hooper (Drum set): Lee Ritenour, Marcus Miller, David Sanborn, The Rippingtons, Herbie Hancock, Donny Osmond, George Duke, Arturo Sandoval, James Ingram, Eric Marienthall, Kirk Whalum, Sheryl Crow, The Manhattan Transfer, Chaka Kahn and more <a href="http://hooper.com/drums/" data-imported="1">http://hooper.com/drums/</a></p>
<p><a href="http://stevetorok.com/publicfiles/dansiegel_poster.pdf" data-imported="1">Download a Dan Siegel Concert Poster</a></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61607002010-04-12T17:00:00-07:002022-05-16T01:54:44-07:00Oceanside Jazz Festival
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/f1b016a3921cf48c703a7e64d52bb8cc8fe384b2/original/jazz-orchestra-poster03101-resized.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6Mzg5eDYwMCJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Jazz_Orchestra_Poster03101_resized.jpg" height="600" width="389" /></p>
<p>The Oceanside Jazz Festival at MiraCosta College is Friday and Saturday, April 16-17. High school and collegiate level groups will be performing all weekend. Friday night's concert features vocalist Karrin Allyson and the MCC vocal jazz students. Info about Karrin at <a href="http://www.karrinallyson.com" data-imported="1">www.karrinallyson.com</a></p>
<p>I will be directing the events on Saturday. That night's concert features the MCC Jazz Collective and the debut of MOJO (MiraCosta Oceanside Jazz Orchestra) in concert with sax icon Tom Scott. Info about Tom at <a href="http://www.tomscottmusic.com" data-imported="1">www.tomscottmusic.com</a></p>
<p>Please see <a href="http://www.oceansidejazzfestival.com" data-imported="1">www.oceansidejazzfestival.com</a> for ticket info and more about the festival.</p>
<p>Hope to see you there!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.stevetorok.com/publicfiles/Jazz_Orchestra_Poster0310.pdf" data-imported="1">Jazz Festival Poster</a> PDF</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606982010-01-15T16:00:00-08:002022-05-10T03:56:38-07:00MiraCosta College Has MOJO!
<p style="margin-bottom: 0px;">The MiraCosta College Music Department is pleased to announce the launching of a new jazz repertory big band in spring 2010. The MiraCosta Oceanside Jazz Orchestra (MOJO), under the direction of Steve Torok, will concentrate on performing the music of the great jazz arrangers and composers, including Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Woody Hermann, Gil Evans, and Mel Lewis/Thad Jones, as well as contemporary greats such as John Clayton, Maria Schneider, Bob Florence and Gordon Goodwin.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br>MOJO will be offered as a one-unit class, MUS 158 (section 2953) Special Ensemble Project. Entry into to the group is by audition/interview. Auditions will be held during the first rehearsal on Tuesday, January 26 at 6:30 p.m. Weekly rehearsals will be Tuesdays, 6:30-9:15 p.m. in MiraCosta’s new Concert Hall, which is located in Bldg. 2400, at 1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside.</p>
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<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;">It is very exciting that the instrumental jazz offerings at MCC have expanded to include MOJO, which joins the already established MCC Jazz Collective and Latin Jazz Bands. The MiraCosta Jazz Collective, established by Torok 1.5 years ago, concentrates upon a more eclectic combo format with unique instrumentation and custom arrangements. The band has performed with Ernie Watts, Reggie Hamilton, Dan Fornero, and Carmen Grillo and in a number of exciting venues including the Reno Jazz Fest, Oceanside Jazz Fest, and Oceanside Harbor Days. The group meets M/W 2-3:30 PM and is currently offered as a one-unit class, MUS 150 (section 2283) Jazz Lab Band.</p>
<p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;"><br>Please contact Steve Torok by <a href="mailto:jazzband@miracosta.edu" data-imported="1">e-mail</a>, or call (760) 757-2121, ext. 6438, or explore this web site for more information about the director or either band.</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606992009-12-31T16:00:00-08:002022-01-05T17:45:04-08:00MCC Jazz Collective Rocks with Ernie Watts!
<p>The great saxophonist Ernie Watts performed to a sold out house with the MCC Jazz Collective on Saturday, December 12. Original arrangements of several of Ernie's tunes as well a new versions of the standards "Lover Man" and "Pick Up the Pieces," were written by Torok for Ernie and premiered at the event.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/c4a4894ea033281d98163f0707f42ea3b2c05dbf/original/collective-with-ernie.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MzAweDIyNSJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Collective_with_Ernie.JPG" height="225" style="vertical-align: text-bottom;" width="300" /></p>
<p>Earlier in the day Ernie offered an exceptional jazz improvisation clinic and lecture.</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606972009-11-21T16:00:00-08:002021-10-11T22:22:51-07:00Legendary Saxophonist Ernie Watts to perform with MiraCosta College Jazz Ensemble on 12/12/09
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392687/2e1a22a88cae9964c201581c8562903b55979662/original/ernie-watts-48f73431f1af9.jpg/!!/b%3AWyJyZXNpemU6MjAweDIxNSJd.jpg" class="size_orig justify_right border_" alt="Ernie_Watts_48f73431f1af9.jpg" height="215" width="200" /></p>
<p>"...an intense and masterful jazz improviser who has developed his own sheets of sound approach along with a distinctive and soulful sound. Ernie Watts has developed into one of the most powerful of tenormen with complete control over his horn and the ability to bring intensity and passion (plus taste) to any musical situation."</p>
<p><strong>Scott Yanow/All Music Guide</strong></p>
<p>On Saturday, December 12 saxophonist Ernie Watts will be featured in concert with the MiraCosta College Jazz Ensemble. Ernie is a one of the most respected and influential tenor saxophonists of the post-Coltrane era. A two time Grammy award winner he has performed and recorded with many of the pop and jazz world’s biggest stars including Thelonius Monk, Oliver Nelson, Charlie Haden, Buddy Rich, Aretha Franklin, Rolling Stones, Marvin Gaye, Steely Dan, Frank Zappa, Pat Metheny, and hundreds of others. The concert will feature brand new arrangements of Ernie’s original music plus familiar standards.</p>
<p>Earlier on Saturday Ernie will present a free jazz improvisation clinic and Q & A at 1 PM, followed by an open rehearsal with the MiraCosta College Jazz Ensemble. The evening concert begins at 7:30 PM.</p>
<p>Tickets: <a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/Events/index.htm" data-imported="1">http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/Events/index.htm</a></p>
<p>Press Release: <a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/News/091126.htm" data-imported="1">http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/News/091126.htm</a></p>
<p>For more information please visit <a href="http://www.erniewatts.com/" target="_new" data-imported="1">http://www.erniewatts.com/</a> and email <a href="mailto:jazzband@miracosta.edu" data-imported="1">jazzband@miracosta.edu</a>.</p>
<p>Download the <a href="http://stevetorok.com/publicfiles/MiraCosta_Jazz_with_Ernie_Watts_12-12-09.pdf" data-imported="1">Ernie Watts Concert Poster</a></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606962009-07-14T17:00:00-07:002020-10-09T00:34:09-07:00MIraCosta Jazz Ensemble
<p>Steve directs the Mira Costa College Jazz Ensemble which performs in styles including hard bop, blues, Latin, and funk. The band gets back to work in August. Please consider joining the group!</p>
<p><strong>Highlights:</strong> Last year the band rocked at an SRO concert at the Oceanside Jazz Fest with virtuoso bassist <a href="http://www.reggiehamilton.com/disco.html" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Reggie Hamilton</a>, Phil Collins' trumpeter <a href="http://www.danfornero.com/" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Dan Fornero</a>, and Tower of Power guitarist <a href="http://www.carmengrillo.com/" target="_blank" data-imported="1">Carmen Grillo</a>. The group also performed at the Reno Jazz Festival. Other performances included the inauguration of the new MCC president and a special performance for the mayor and city council in Oceanside. <em>And the band has only been around one year!!</em></p>
<p>The first rehearsal is August 25 at 2 PM. Please contact <a href="mailto:storok@miracosta.edu" data-imported="1">storok@miracosta.edu</a> with questions or for info about auditions.</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606952009-03-18T17:00:00-07:002022-03-16T05:02:19-07:003rd Annual Oceanside Jazz Fest
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<p><span class="bold"><strong>MCC Jazz Ensemble with Carmen Grillo, Reggie Hamilton and Dan Fornero</strong> </span></p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">Directed by Steve Torok</p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">MiraCosta College Theatre</p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside </p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">Saturday, March 28 • 7:30 p.m.<br>General admission, $15; students/seniors, $10</p>
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<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"><a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/Events/index.htm#music" target="_new" data-imported="1">Click Here to Purchase Tickets</a></p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px"><br>MiraCosta College will host the 3rd Annual Oceanside Jazz Festival October 27-28. The MiraCosta College Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Steve Torok, will close the festival Saturday night with a special performance featuring three world class guest musicians. Bassist <a href="http://www.reggiehamilton.com/" target="_new" data-imported="1">Reggie Hamilton</a>, guitarist <a href="http://www.carmengrillo.com/" target="_new" data-imported="1">Carmen Grillo</a>, and trumpeter <a href="http://www.danfornero.com/" target="_new" data-imported="1">Dan Fornero</a> will be featured with the band. All three are first call Los Angeles session and touring musicians, and have performed with a truly extraordinary list of jazz and pop musicians including Stevie Wonder, Phil Collins, Barbara Streisand, Whitney Huston, Tina Turner, Tower of Power, Gladys Knight, Jennifer Lopez, Brian Setzer, Neil Diamond, Eric Marienthal, Billy Childs, Gordon Goodwin, and so many others. Please visit their web sites (linked to their names above) for more info. MCC <a href="http://web.mac.com/mfjazz/Frequency/Home.html" target="_new" data-imported="1">Frequency Vocal Jazz</a>, directed by Matt Falker, will open the concert.</p>
<p>All three guests will present a FREE instrumental clinic in the MCC Theatre at 2 PM on Saturday, March 28. Please bring your instruments! The clinic will be followed by an open rehearsal with the MCC Jazz Band. Interested musicians are welcome to stay and observe the rehearsal.</p>
<p>For more info about the festival please see the <a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/News/090310.htm" target="_new" data-imported="1">MiraCosta College Press Release</a> describing the festival.</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606942008-12-31T16:00:00-08:002022-02-25T01:57:14-08:00MiraCosta College
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<p align="left">The Spring term begins January 20. Check out the spring schedule at <a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/" target="_new" data-imported="1">www.miracosta.edu</a> and join Professor Steve for one of his new classes!</p>
<p align="left">If you are already enrolled:</p>
<strong></strong><p align="left"><strong><a href="https://blackboard.miracosta.edu/" target="_new" data-imported="1"><font color="#4c505c">CLICK HERE</font></a> </strong>to access MUS-115 Listening to Music, MUS-119 History of Jazz, or MUS-150 Jazz Band</p>
<p align="left"><strong><a href="http://www.coastonline.org/moodle/course/category.php?id=52" target="_new" data-imported="1"><font color="#4c505c">CLICK HERE</font></a> </strong>to access MUS-101 Theory I, MUS-102 Theory II, or MUS-104 Musicianship II</p>
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Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606932008-10-31T17:00:00-07:002012-02-16T03:47:47-08:00Debut Concert of MCC Jazz Ensemble Featuring Carmen Grillo
<p class="bold" style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"><strong>MiraCosta College Jazz Ensemble</strong></p>
<p class="bold" style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"><strong>With Special Guest Artist Carmen Grillo</strong> </p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">Directed by Steve Torok</p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">MiraCosta College, Studio A, Building 2200</p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">1 Barnard Drive, Oceanside</p>
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<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">Friday, November 21 ● 7:30 PM</p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px">General Admission, $10; Students/Seniors, $8</p>
<p style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px"><a href="https://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/Events/index.htm" target="_new" data-imported="1">Click Here to Purchase Tickets</a></p>
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<p class="bold" style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">Join this brand new ensemble for their debut concert. The group performs classic and contemporary straight-ahead funk, fusion and Latin jazz. The concert will also feature world-famous guitarist Carmen Grillo (Tower of Power, Chicago, Smokey Robinson, Huey Lewis, and many others). <a href="http://www.carmengrillo.com/" target="_new" data-imported="1">http://www.carmengrillo.com/</a> </p>
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<p class="bold" style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"> </p>
<p class="bold" style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">The concert features new arrangements of well known hard bop tunes as well as new music inspired by that era. The group will also be perfoming two of Carmen's new original tunes, which will be included in his new CD project.</p>
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<p class="bold" style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"><a href="https://www.miracosta.edu/OfficeOfThePresident/PIO/081111.htm" target="_new" data-imported="1">Oficial Press Release</a> </p>
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<p class="bold" style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"><strong>Lunchtime Performance at MiraCosta</strong></p>
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<p class="bold" style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px">The band will also be performing at the Oceanside Campus for MiraCosta's College Hour on Thursday, November 20 (12 noon).</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606922008-09-23T17:00:00-07:002020-11-20T04:48:21-08:00Gigs with the Temps
<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><font face="Calibri" size="4">Steve will be playing lead tenor on a few gigs with the <strong><i>Temptations</i></strong> in October. </font></p>
<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><font face="Calibri" size="4">Check them out if you are in the area.</font></p>
<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><font face="Calibri" size="4"><strong>October 5</strong> <a href="http://www.foxtheateronline.com/" target="_new" data-imported="1">Fox Theatre</a> - Bakersfield, CA</font></p>
<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><font face="Calibri" size="4"><strong>October 11</strong> <a href="http://www.jwfestivalinthedesert.com/lineup" target="_new" data-imported="1">Festival in the Desert</a> (</font><font face="Calibri" size="4">J. W. Marriott Desert Ridge Resort) - Phoenix, AZ</font></p>
<p style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 10pt"><font face="Calibri" size="4">More info can be found at </font><a href="http://www.thetemptations.net/" data-imported="1"><font face="Calibri" color="#800080" size="4">http://www.thetemptations.net</font></a></p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606912008-08-24T17:00:00-07:002023-12-10T08:51:21-08:00Mira Costa Courses for Fall 2008
<p align="center"><strong>Mira Costa College Courses for Fall 2008</strong></p>
<p align="left"><strong><a href="https://blackboard.miracosta.edu/webapps/login/)" target="_new" data-imported="1">CLICK HERE</a> </strong>to access MUS-115 Listening to Music, MUS-119 History of Jazz, or MUS-150 Jazz Band</p>
<p align="left"><strong><a href="http://www.coastonline.org/moodle/course/category.php?id=25" target="_new" data-imported="1">CLICK HERE</a> </strong>to access MUS-101 Theory I or MUS-103 Musicianship I</p>
Steve Toroktag:stevetorok.com,2005:Post/61606902008-07-16T17:00:00-07:002023-12-10T08:43:28-08:00Mira Costa College
<p>Steve is excited to join the faculty at Mira Costa College in Oceanside, CA this August. The fall term begins August 25. Check out the fall schedule at <a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/" data-imported="1">www.miracosta.edu</a> and join Steve for one of his new classes!
MUS-150 Jazz Ensemble (M/W 2-3:15 PM)
MUS-101 Theory I (M/W 10-11:15 AM)
MUS-119 Jazz History Online
MUS-115 Introduction to Music Online
MUS-103 Musicianship Online
<a href="http://www.miracosta.edu/Instruction/Music/index.htm" data-imported="1">Click here</a> for info about the MCC Music Department.</p>
Steve Torok