There isn't a secret formula to artistic growth. I practiced, practiced, and practiced. At one point, on my 30th birthday, I realized with a tiny horror that since graduating from college, I hadn't seen much of the world other than Chicago. Starting then at 30, I decided I needed to broaden my experiences, take on a self-directed study plan of certain subjects, travel extensively every year, and generally try to learn the art of living as separate but integral to the art of music. There are moments constantly that are gratifying.
Music works that way.
Often this moment, the audible result of one's work, is a sum greater than its parts. . . You ve said the singers and songwriters you most admire include Elis Regina, Leny Andrade, Sheila Jordan, Shirley Horn, Joni Mitchell, and Cole Porter. Bill Evans, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Chick Corea. Many people hear some kinship between your playing and his. It would be impossible not to hear some Bill Evans in any jazz pianist's playing.