Home » Jazz Musicians » Stephen Ramsdell
Stephen Ramsdell
Editorial and transcription work was done for Paul Berliner as he completed his tome Thinking in Jazz. Later explorations of the music of Zimbabwe occurred in performances with Berliner’s ensemble. Steve’s interview with John Abercrombie was published in the IAJE Journal (1996). Further post graduate studies have led Steve to folkloric workshops in Brazil (1997) and Cuba (1998).
As a freelance musician in Chicago, Steve has performed in a wide range of situations. An extended run as one of the house guitarists at Geja’s Cafe allowed for the development of Steve’s solo playing. Steady gigs over the years at clubs such as the Bop Shop, the Underground Wonder Bar, Magoo’s Underground Lounge, Phyllis’ Musical Inn, Joy Blue and Katarina’s have nurtured his ensemble skills. Steve has performed his own compositions for the Chicago Jazz Composers Collective, Bernie Sahlins’ production of the Cure at Troy and concerts at numerous colleges. Performances with the Arts Center Jazz Ensemble at the College of DuPage keep Steve in touch with the big band experience. Work with fellow Wheaton Conservatory faculty includes performances of pieces by Astor Piazzolla and George Crumb. Steve was also a featured performer of Mario Casteluovo-Tedesco’s Romancero Gitano with the New Classic Singers.
Steve has maintained a busy teaching schedule at College of DuPage since 1994, Wheaton College since 1998, Benedictine University 1996-2002, and the Merit Music Program 1993-1997. Summer music workshops include Music on the Fly 2002, 2003 and the Northwestern University Summer High School Institute 1991-1995.
Gear
1968 contreras, D'Angelico NYL-2, Fender Telecaster, etc.. AER amp
Tags
Steve Ramsdell’s acoustic guitar adds a soulful presence. -Jim Santella, All About Jazz
Steve has that rare quality of playing only what’s necessary to express himself, never overplaying. -David Bloom, Founder, Bloom School of Jazz, Fire and Form Music
...Never selling short on intellect, sensitivity and passion for detail...the thinking man’s guitarist..mixing classical and jazz sensibilities and holding his own thing together... -John MacCalkies, New City Chicago
Primary Instrument
Guitar
Willing to teach
Advanced only
Credentials/Background
Instructor at College of Dupage and Wheaton College
Music
Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson