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It was clear from the early growth of this artists
musical career that his serious commitment to music would be
manifested in the form of improvisation, in both performance and
compositional worlds. His creative imagery has been part
of many concerts, recordings and multimedia projects throughout
his career.
Billy Drewes was born in New York in 1952. After a
wonderful period of development in his early years, he moved to
Boston in 1970 where he earned his degree from Berklee College
of Music and where new areas of musical possibilities were
defined. His intense involvement with many different
avenues of music molded him into the creative artist he is
today. While in Boston he worked with Tony Bennett, The
Boston Symphony and Gary Burton. He also lead a number of
his own bands.
A big move back to New York City in 1975 propelled him into new
musical acquaintances such as Kenny Werner, John Scofield and
Joe Lovano. Upon arriving in New York, he immediately
joined the bands of Lionel Hampton and Eddie Palmieri as well as
other serious leaders. Soon after, he toured with Woody
Herman doing concerts and clinics.
The creative energy of the late 70's was great for Billy and his
wide circle of musical friends. This explosion of new
ideas extended into the 80's at which time Billy joined Paul
Motian's band. This band included Joe Lovano and Bill
Frisell and toured Europe and the US, and recorded an album
"PSALM" for ECM records. This period lead to a musical
relationship with Lyle Mays (of Pat Metheny's Band) with whom
Billy performed concerts and recorded albums. New and
exciting projects were now becoming part of a daily groove for
Billy. The eclectic range of work kept things fresh and
uplifting.
Billy became involved with Brazilian and Indian Music, performed
and recorded for dance troupes; Nikolais Dance Company and the
Alvin Ailey Dance Theater. In 1990 he joined the Thad
Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra. Billy wove classical music into
a wide body of music that he composed and performed. He
continued recording and touring with artists Herbie Hancock,
Bill Frisell, Eddie Gomez, Randy Brecker, John Scofield, Toninho
Horta, John Abercrombie, Fred Hersch and Peter Erskine. |
