1. How old were you when you first started playing music?
I started playing clarinet in grade 7 middle school and continued all through high school. I started private sax lessons midway through high school in addition to clarinet lessons. My first paying gig was in a church basement with a “jazz” trio I started with 2 buddies. We made $10 - Total !
2. Who was/is your biggest musical inspiration?
I think Michael Brecker was my sax inspiration after seeing him play live. As a group, Chicago was my original inspiration
3. Where do you make your home?
I've lived in Mississauga Ontario for a long time. Before that, I was a downtown Toronto guy.
4. Do you have any pets?
Yes, a beautiful cat named Karma, an Ocicat.
5. What is the best concert/gig you have ever done?
The best gig would have to be playing the Ontario place Forum with the Spoons, back in the day.
6. What is the best concert you have ever attended?
Many wonderful shows, but I think seeing Tower Of Power opening for BOB MARLEY at Maple Leaf Gardens was pretty epic.
7. Do you have an all-time favourite song or album?
Very hard to choose one so I’ll list a few: Abbey Road (Beatles), Kind Of Blue (Miles Davis), Chicago 2.
8. What musician would you still most like to work with?
My friend Chris Smith who’s a consummate singer/songwriter.
9. If you weren't a musician what would you be?
An Astronaut. Music was Plan B…lol
10. What is your favourite thing about Vancouver?
The vibe of the city is incredible, and playing a sold out show with Brass Transit and the Vancouver Symphony was a really great experience.
~Vickie van Dyke
Midday Host