We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sandy Eldred a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Sandy, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

I recently developed a website: PhillyJazzScene.com

The site is a one-stop hub for everything related to jazz in the Philadelphia region. It features an up-to-date calendar of events, new record releases, dedicated pages for local artists, venues, arts organizations, and music studios, as well as an interactive forum where fans, musicians, and venues can connect. The goal is to make it easier for everyone to discover, support, and experience the dynamic Philly jazz scene.

As a working musician in Philadelphia for more than fifteen years, I’ve observed that there are countless incredible projects happening all over the region. While our goal, as artists, is ultimately the same — to celebrate a music and culture — there is a disconnect, both among the community of artists and promoters, and the fans and arts patrons who want to support us. Philadelphia is home to hidden gem music venues and world-class musicians, yet so many people are completely unaware of them. PhillyJazzScene.com hopes to change that, making it easier for everyone to discover and engage with our jazz scene and to better connect the community.

Sandy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am an internationally acclaimed bassist, recording artist, producer, composer, and music educator. I currently lead U.S.E. Trio, a high-energy ensemble based in Philadelphia, and I am the longstanding bassist for Norman David & The Eleventet, one of the country’s most distinctive large jazz ensembles. As a freelance musician, I perform regularly, both across the U.S. and internationally. In 2023, I founded the record label Each and Only, and in 2024, I launched PhillyJazzScene.com. I also curate the Creative Concepts in Jazz Series and Jazz Night at the Ukrainian League, two highly regarded jazz events in the city.

In addition to my performing career, I’m committed to music education. I am an original member of Jazz Mission, an international initiative aimed at inspiring the next generation of musicians in Ukraine. I also teach lessons, conduct lectures, and lead masterclasses for students at all levels, from high school to professional musicians, both locally and internationally.

My life in music started in my hometown of Atlantic City, NJ, where I was fortunate to be mentored by some of the region’s top musicians. This early exposure to the music and entertainment industry laid the foundation for my career, which has allowed me to collaborate with musicians and creatives from all over the world. I’ve built a reputation for professionalism, a strong work ethic, and a creative approach across a variety of musical genres. I take pride in my versatility and my ability to bring fresh, inventive ideas to the projects I undertake.

These days, I split my time between practicing, performing, recording, and producing music for my label and projects, while also dedicating my time to web design and promotion for PhillyJazzScene.com and other clients. I’m particularly proud of my recent endeavors with the website and label and look forward to expanding both as part of my broader vision to connect and elevate the Philly jazz community.

I suppose what sets me apart is my combination of artistic and entrepreneurial pursuits. Whether through my performance career, educational projects, or new ventures, I aim to create opportunities for collaboration within the music world.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the people I meet and collaborate with. There’s something special about working alongside like-minded individuals, who not only understand the value of art, but actively engage with it. The connections and friendships I’ve made, and the experiences I’ve shared with creative people from all over the world, are invaluable.

I feel deeply grateful to be part of something bigger than myself. I also feel fortunate to dedicate my time to initiatives that support the arts, helping to create spaces where artists can be their authentic selves. I can’t imagine living or working any other way, and I’m continually inspired by the creative spirit that makes art so powerful.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I wouldn’t say there’s a specific goal or mission that drives me. What I can say is that ever since I was young, I’ve always felt wired to make music and be creative. I don’t see that ever changing. The difference now is that I’m more focused on organizing my creativity, documenting the incredible projects I’ve been fortunate to be a part of, and helping others do the same.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://PhillyJazzScene.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandyeldredbass/

Image Credits

Carmen Marcucci (all images)