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

Alright, Pritesh thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

In my journey as a musician, I’ve come to believe that each project I undertake holds a profound and unique meaning. Whether I’m performing for an audience or immersing myself in a personal creative endeavor, I view every project as a canvas for exploring and expressing my individual artistic voice. Currently, I’m privileged to find myself in an exhilarating position, as I’m deeply involved in four substantial and deeply meaningful projects.

**1. Debut Album – “Hope Town”**
My debut album, “Hope Town,” is a deeply personal endeavor close to my heart. Collaborating with the exceptionally talented bassist, Chris Worden, and percussionist, Gen Yoshimura, this album is a culmination of seven years of dedication to composition. Drawing inspiration from a myriad of life experiences, it’s a testament to my growth as an artist. What sets this project apart is the inclusion of a companion book. Within its pages, you’ll find meticulously transcribed solos and comprehensive lead sheets of my compositions. This multifaceted approach offers a comprehensive look at my artistic evolution.

**2. Organ Trio Project – PSA (Pritesh, Sharik, Avery)**
The Organ Trio project, affectionately known as PSA, is a musical venture that holds a special place in my heart. Collaborating with Sharik Hasan on organ and keyboards and Avery Logan on drums, the project has unfolded organically and collaboratively. What makes this project particularly unique is our focus on innovative soundscapes. We’ve taken the traditional organ trio format and infused it with synth sounds and various electronic elements, drawing inspiration from a diverse range of genres, including jazz, gospel, and modern groove music. This creative synthesis results in an exciting and fresh musical experience.

**3. “Pritesh Walia with Strings”**
The “Pritesh Walia with Strings” album has been an immensely fulfilling undertaking. Composing the music for this project posed significant challenges, but it also provided me with the opportunity to produce and conduct three distinct string quartets. Additionally, I had the privilege of collaborating with the talented Brazilian singer Stephanie Borgani, who co-wrote several compositions featured on the album. Furthermore, the project involved working with remarkable arrangers such as Henry Godfrey and Yotam Ishay to craft intricate string arrangements. The album’s essence lies in its modern interpretation of Brazilian music, inspired by luminaries like Pixinguinha and other contemporary Brazilian artists, even though it doesn’t strictly adhere to traditional choro music.

**4. Henry Godfrey Jazz Orchestra – Music of Pritesh Walia**
The “Henry Godfrey Jazz Orchestra featuring the music of Pritesh Walia” is a grand jazz undertaking, helmed by the gifted arranger Henry Godfrey. This ambitious project unites 23 exceptional jazz musicians, including luminaries such as Aaron Parks and Godwin Louis. What makes it truly exceptional is Henry’s decision to arrange my compositions for the big band. The result is a powerful amalgamation of musical excellence. To add an exciting twist, the entire recording process has been captured on video, creating a captivating visual experience that complements the extraordinary music. I eagerly anticipate the lasting impact this project will have on the jazz community.

These projects are the embodiment of my artistic vision and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression. I am genuinely excited to witness each of them come to fruition and share the depth of meaning and innovation they represent with the world.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

For those who may be encountering my work for the first time, allow me to provide some insight into who I am and what I stand for. My name is Pritesh Walia, and I am a jazz guitarist, educator, composer, and arranger currently based in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, California.

My journey into the world of music began with a promising start. I earned the prestigious “Steve Vai Scholarship” upon entering the Musicians Institute College of Contemporary Music. This recognition was an early indicator of my passion and commitment to the craft. Further milestones in my academic journey include acknowledgments from the Berklee College of Music during my undergraduate years, where I was honored with the “Berklee Achievement Scholarship” and the “Professional Music Achievement Award.” To add to my academic achievements, I hold a Master’s Degree in Jazz Performance Studies from the New England Conservatory, and this path was paved with the “Dean Scholarship.”

I’m an active participant in the world of music, serving as a session player and performer. My musical footprint extends across diverse genres, from Jazz Big Band and Modern Jazz to Gypsy jazz and independent singer-songwriter music. Over the years, my work has found a place on numerous records and projects, reflecting my versatility and adaptability in the realm of sound.

But my journey is not solely about performing and composing. Teaching and sharing knowledge have always been integral to my mission. I’ve had the privilege of working with students in various capacities, from ensemble coaching to private and group guitar lessons, imparting my expertise at middle schools and music academies in Boston. Additionally, I’ve held the position of professor at Bunker Hill Community College and Excelsia University, where I’ve had the opportunity to nurture the talents of students and impart my wealth of knowledge.

My educational endeavors have included hosting clinics, masterclasses, and workshops on an international scale. Additionally, I’ve recorded instructional guitar courses and conducted masterclasses on Jazz Guitar at the Panama Jazz Festival.

As an educator, I aspire to create a safe and open environment where students can explore their potential, both musically and personally. I firmly believe that every student possesses the capacity to succeed, and my role is to guide them on that journey. Music, especially when it comes to the guitar, is a profoundly personal experience, and I recognize that every student has their unique strengths and weaknesses. Sometimes, the key to a student’s success lies in patience and providing the right guidance.

I am committed to sharing knowledge and igniting a passion for learning. The effectiveness of a teacher is gauged by their ability to connect with their students. In my view, the cornerstone of a fruitful student-teacher relationship is built on “communication” and “inspiration.” Understanding and assessing a student’s learning preferences is crucial. Some students thrive with visual aids, some with auditory cues, and others through hands-on experience. It’s essential for an educator to cater to these diverse learning patterns and tailor their teaching approach accordingly.

In my teaching, I focus on identifying and strengthening weaknesses while amplifying existing strengths. I regularly evaluate my students’ progress based on assignments and in-lesson development to track their growth and craft a clear picture of their learning journey. I make a concerted effort to challenge students to reach the next level, ultimately empowering them to discover their unique sound on their instrument.

What I’m most proud of is the opportunity to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians and to continuously explore and push the boundaries of my own creativity as a composer and arranger. My commitment to both education and artistry is what sets me apart, and I look forward to connecting with potential clients, followers, and fans who share this passion for music and growth.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

The support and nurturing of artists, particularly jazz musicians, are pivotal not just for the preservation of culture and the arts but for the enrichment of society as a whole. In order to establish an environment conducive to the flourishing of jazz musicians and, by extension, the entire creative community, there are several key aspects that society can focus on:

**1. Education and Accessibility:** Society should prioritize the accessibility of quality music education. Jazz, as a genre, carries with it a rich history and complex improvisational elements that necessitate dedicated and specialized instruction. By ensuring that aspiring musicians, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, have access to comprehensive music education, we can lay the foundation for the next generation of jazz artists. Scholarships, community music programs, and partnerships with schools are effective ways to make this possible.

**2. Venues and Platforms:** It is essential to create and sustain spaces and platforms for jazz musicians to perform and showcase their talents. Jazz thrives in intimate settings and is often best experienced in live performances. Society can support this by fostering a network of jazz clubs, concert venues, and festivals. Furthermore, the digital era presents an opportunity to broadcast jazz to wider audiences, making online streaming platforms and media outlets a valuable asset.

**3. Financial Support:** Jazz musicians often grapple with financial challenges, particularly during the early stages of their careers. Society can offer financial backing through grants, fellowships, and artist-in-residence programs. These resources can alleviate the financial burden, allowing artists to focus on honing their craft and contributing to the evolution of jazz.

**4. Promotion and Awareness:** Jazz has an enduring history, but it is crucial to ensure its relevance to contemporary audiences. Society can contribute by promoting jazz through cultural initiatives, festivals, and educational programs that introduce jazz to younger generations. Creating awareness of jazz’s cultural significance and its role in bridging diverse communities can reignite interest in the genre.

**5. Preservation and Documentation:** Jazz is an art form deeply rooted in history. Preserving the heritage of jazz, its pioneers, and its evolution is essential. Society can actively support the documentation and archiving of jazz history, ensuring that the contributions of past and present jazz musicians are recognized and celebrated.

**6. Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Exploration:** Jazz, with its inherent spirit of improvisation and collaboration, can inspire innovation in other fields. Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration between jazz musicians and artists from different domains, such as visual arts or technology, can lead to new and exciting creative endeavors.

In sum, society’s role in supporting jazz musicians and artists, in general, is multifaceted. It involves nurturing talent through accessible education, providing venues for performance, extending financial support, raising awareness, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. This collective effort not only ensures the continuity of jazz but also enriches the broader creative ecosystem, making it a thriving and culturally vibrant part of our society.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

The lesson I’ve had to unlearn and the valuable insight that I’ve gained in my journey as a jazz musician and creative individual revolve around the notion that opportunities and support in the creative world are readily handed to those with talent. The backstory to this lesson is a series of experiences that led me to a profound realization.

Initially, I, like many aspiring artists, held the belief that showcasing one’s talent would inevitably attract support and opportunities. It’s a perspective that’s easy to adopt, given the romanticized image of artistic success. However, as I ventured further into the realms of jazz music, I encountered the often harsh reality that this is a field where reciprocity and self-initiative play significant roles.

What I came to understand is that while it may appear that people are eager to help, the creative industry operates on a somewhat different paradigm. Many times, opportunities and support are extended in exchange for something in return, whether it’s networking, shared expertise, or collaborative effort. Talent, though undeniably valuable, doesn’t always guarantee a straightforward path to success. I realized that not receiving opportunities doesn’t necessarily reflect on the quality of my art.

This lesson came with its share of challenges. It’s disheartening to put your heart and soul into your craft and not see doors readily opening. The tendency to blame oneself can be overwhelming, leading to moments of self-doubt and frustration. I, too, learned this the hard way.

However, through those trying experiences, I discovered a more empowering truth: the importance of creating our own opportunities and following our intuition. Even if the people around us may not always align with our choices, especially in the subjective world of music, there is no absolute right or wrong. The creative journey is deeply personal, and authenticity is a guiding light. I realized that success in jazz, as in any creative field, is not solely about conforming to established norms or waiting for validation. It’s about carving out a unique path, taking risks, and trusting in one’s instincts.

This unlearning process, while challenging, ultimately served as a catalyst for my personal and artistic growth. It illuminated the importance of resilience, perseverance, and the belief in one’s unique creative voice. It has enabled me to forge my own path as a jazz musician and composer, unburdened by the need for external validation, and guided by the authenticity of my artistry.

In essence, I’ve come to appreciate that while the creative journey may not always be straightforward, it’s the unpredictability, the failures, and the challenges that ultimately shape us as artists. It’s the ability to embrace the unconventional, and to keep pushing forward despite adversity, that leads to the most profound and meaningful artistic discoveries.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/priteshwalia/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pritesh.walia

Image Credits
Photo by Speve David Kayne