Reminisce
Known in parts of the Midwest as the Fishin' Musician (he also ties his own flies), Joe Augustine's interest in flyfishing is second only to his love of playing piano. His musical ability went undiscovered until the age of 15, when he sat down at a piano in the music room of his high school and repeated what the student teacher there had just played. The teacher, realizing his aptitude for the instrument, encouraged him to take lessons.This he did, studying for 2 years with Gene Rush, presently the director of the Jazz program at the University of Memphis. Gene greatly influenced Joe's jazz playing and also directed him to classical instructor Dolores Fitzer, a former soloist at Carnegie Hall. Joe remained under Dolores' tutelage throughout his college years at Youngstown State University. Although he earned his bachelor's degree in business, Joe played 5-6 gigs a week while in college as well, never seeming to get enough time at the piano.Upon graduation in 1971, Joe walked into the newly opened Avalon Resort in Warren, Ohio and has been playing there 6 nights a week ever since. Of his 25-year engagement Joe comments, "I've had to learn, play and understand all kinds of music. Painting that musical picture each night is a wonderful way to market new arrangements."Joe has received professional acclaim over the years for his performances with local symphony orchestras and in 1987 The Ohio Arts Council selected him as an "Ohio Artist On Tour." More recently, the Steinway Piano Company honored Joe by making him one of their designated "Steinway Artists."His economic yet expressive style allows any listener to feel involved in his music. The spirit of pleasing the listener is reflected in Joe's recordings as well as his live performances. Constant practice in front of a live audience produces an artistic virtuosity that allows Joe's arrangements to change and evolve through continual improvisation. His understanding of harmonic texture and musical color reveals an artist who is sensitive to the emotions evoked by a song and has a real desire to appeal to his audience. BAND_MEMBERS: Joe Augustine, Chuck Jacobs, Albie Berk