The Dwayne Estes Trio Dwayne Estes’ jazz piano style is rich with soul and wisdom. After almost 20 years as a professional musician, Dwayne lost his eyesight in a freak accident and was forced to redefine his place in music. He worked to find gifted musicians who could communicate with one another musically rather than visually on stage. Thus was born the Dwayne Estes Trio and Dwayne’s return to his passion for performing live jazz. The trio’s first CD, Blind Ambition, is due for release in June ’06. The trio includes Dwayne Estes on piano, Jay Hungerford on bass, and Brett Veolker on drums. Musicians sitting in on the CD include David Black on guitar, Chris Sabick on Latin percussion, and Steven Milloy on vocals. He began his professional music career at age 15 playing jobs in his native Evansville, Indiana. He soon developed a love for jazz improvisation, and having played across the United States, settled in St. Louis where he attended Webster University studying with St. Louis piano great Carolbeth True. After a brief stint in Nashville, Tennessee working as a musical director for Gaylord Entertainment, Dwayne returned to his adopted home of St. Louis where he completed a masters degree in Jazz Studies. Dwayne has continued to play in and around St. Louis for the last 20 years. It was during this time that he lost his eyesight in a freak accident. He is very proud to present the Dwayne Estes Trio. Playing many private parties and house pianist for the St. Louis Country Club. In 2003 Dwayne invites you to sit back and enjoy the greatest music America has ever produced. This recording marks an important milestone in my emotional recovery from the freak accident 10 years ago that left me legally blind -- thus the title of this recording, "Blind Ambition." Up until the time of my accident, music had taken me in many directions. But after the accident the piano was my most effective musical skill. And when it comes to music, the more open you are and the more you practice, the better you get. That's the cool thing about music. I have always been drawn to songs with good chord changes, and these songs fill the bill just fine. It is my goal as a player of improvised music to play deep in the changes no matter the style. I wanted this recording to be an organic and real representation of my piano playing. As cool as it is to play the music you love, it's better with incredible musicians! All I can say is, it's the best. Jay Hungerford and Brett Voelker round out this trio recording in the perfect way. Both Jay and Brett are well seasoned musicians and experienced in many genres of music. Steven Milloy's vocals are filled with years of smoky truth, and I believe every word he sings. David Black's "Freddie Greene" style chords on "You Came A Long Way From St. Louis" really pushes this ole swing tune along. Chris' Latin percussion on "Gentle Rain" and "Bessame Mucho" creates an authentic rhythmic feel. These songs are like old friends. I hope you enjoy making their acquaintance.