Dustin Hoag

Dustin Hoag
Musician  |  Producer  |  Educator

Episode 18 - 'Round Midnight

The Imposters take another dive into the enigmatic mind of Thelonious Monk with an episode on the song ‘Round Midnight. A little older, perhaps a little wiser, and with a new perspective from a special guest pianist, we’ll see if we uncover anymore behind the workings of this creative genius.

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Episode 17 - Quasimodo

The Jazz Imposters call for reinforcements as they attempt their first tune by the bebop icon, Charlie Parker. Debuting the guitar in this episode, our quintet of hosts take turns breaking down the incredibly influential soloing of Bird. Join us for Quasimodo!

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Episode 16 - Pent-Up House

‘P’ is for progress ... and Pent-Up House. This week, the Jazz Imposters finally get a chance to pay homage to the fascinating career of Sonny Rollins, including the ups and downs that led him to compose the tune, Pent-Up House. Strap in for a longer episode chock full of history, playing examples, and a look at some complex musical concepts that we’ve avoided up until now.

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Episode 15 - On the Sunny Side of the Street

The Jazz Imposters trace the origins of an optimistic tune written during one of the most hopeless times in American history, as well as for the songwriter himself. There’s also a special guest pianist in this episode who cut his teeth in the birthplace of Jazz, New Orleans. Join us as we take turns inquiring about his approach to this tune and music in general.

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Episode 14 - Nica's Dream

While a member of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, Horace Silver composed this tune in dedication to a devoted patron of bebop music, Pannonica de Koenigswarter. Our hosts break down the dreamlike qualities supplied by the minor-major chords featured in the harmony, along with the everchanging rhythmic feel. The Jazz Imposters also take time to remember the legacy of Nica and her contribution to jazz music.

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Bonus Episode - Halfway Point

We have made it halfway through our first run into the alphabet of jazz standards! Thanks to everyone who has joined us thus far. Please enjoy this checkpoint episode where we reflect on what we have accomplished to this point and look ahead to finishing this round.

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Episode 13 - Mack the Knife

Join the Jazz Imposters for an impromptu Halloween special as they dive into the strange history of their creepiest tune to date. Find out how a disturbing song detailing the exploits of a serial killer and all-around scoundrel became a pop hit in the 1950's.

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Episode 12 - Li'l Darlin'

The Jazz Imposters introduce themselves to Neal Hefti and familiarize themselves with a ballad he composed for the Count Basie Orchestra in 1957, Li’l Darlin’. Our hosts dive into dynamics and the important role they play in this tune and all music. Upon researching Hefti’s history, they quickly uncover a hefty legacy in television and film composing, including the theme song for a certain caped crusader.

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