MUMBAI: There has always been a distinct gap between artistes and their respective audiences. Perhaps the bridge that connects this gap is commercialization. Although there are other bridges too that artists of Dee Wood's claibre would like to use not only to express themselves but also to serve something of quality to his fellow listeners. A fullbright music scholar who came to India to study the richness of our musical heritage while showcasing and improving his pure jazz roots. Earlier a guitar player, Wood has recently shifted to playing the bass.

“It took me sometime but gradually I realized my affinity towards lower frequencies. I think I can express myself with the bass much better,” said the veteran. Wood believes music is an art that grows if spread. He organizes weekly open mics at Bandra Base inviting aspiring musicians to showcase their talent. “We have found some amazing singer-songwriters through these open mics. In fact this city has given me way more than what I had expected and I have no plans of going back anytime soon. I really want to promote these young indie talents here.”

Wood will be accompanied by Australian tenor/soprano saxophonist Mike Rivett and a rhythm section featuring Japanese drummer Ko Omura. Joining the squad will be Vasundhara Vee - among the finest western trained vocalists in the country, keyboard master Alfie Copovi and brilliant saxophonist, Clarinetist and multi-instrumentalist Dallas Smith from USA. They will be presenting songs from ‘Pan American Songbook’ which features the finest of Jazz artists, Duke Ellington, Fats Waller and Horace Silver.

“I personally believe it’s really important to be educated as a good listener. The art of sensitivity towards details makes a human much more conscious and aware. If this can be mastered, anything is possible but truth be spoken I have always been satisfied after playing at NCPA.”

Wood was introduced to music at the age of ten and he has not looked back ever since. He wishes to come up with more original music but has no plans of hitting studios in the near future. “I have no aspirations for commercial success but I am open to interesting projects and collaborations. I just want to get better as an instrumentalist.” That’s humility right there, people.

Catch him live with these other amazing musicians live at Jazz Classics and Standards concert on 18 February 2017 at NCPA.