NBJP: What instrument (that you don’t play) would you like to be able to play?
MB: I’ve always wanted to learn how to play the cello. I remember listening to various movie sound tracks that featured Yo-Yo Ma as the guest soloist. His performances on those records really changed the way I perceived the instrument and I’ve always been curious about learning the cello since
NBJP: What musician influenced you the most?
MB: If I was forced to pick a single musician, I would say Oscar Peterson. I developed a basic improvisational foundation by listening to his records and transcribing his solos.
NBJP: If you were about to have your last meal, what would it be?
MB: My last meal? Haha, thats kind of morbid, but I guess I’d go with a full rack of BBQ ribs.
NBJP: Who was your childhood hero?
MB: Probably my Mom and Dad. They’ve always supported me in all of my endeavors. I’m so thankful to have been brought up by such wonderful role models.
NBJP: What’s your favorite jazz tune?
MB: Hmm…There are so many tunes that I like, but if I had to pick one, I guess it would be “The Days of Wine and Roses” by Henry Mancini. Oscar Peterson’s “We Get Requests” was my first jazz record that I ever bought and his version of this tune blew me away the first time I heard it.
NBJP: What’s your favorite pastime?
MB: Fishing. Sometimes I’ll go find a quiet spot by the water, take out my iPod, and spend a whole afternoon fishing and listening to music. I find it very relaxing.
NBJP: Complete this sentence: I wish I could stop time and be able to experience life and learning without limits.