"MORRISON BRIDGE MUSIC/
TERRY ROBB JAM"
By Dan Golden
Jam sessions are the Mecca for musicians looking for fun, stage time,
tech talk and networking. Aficionados appreciate these unrehearsed
sets, where unexpected musical magic often is heard.
Morrison Bridge Music, in conjunction with the Terry Robb School Of
Guitar, has recently moved their popular Monday night open jam to the
centrally located Longhorn Grill and Saloon, 8000 S.E. Foster. Featuring
live music six nights a week, this Southeast Portland nightspot is
geared for spontaneity.
Bob Wahlke, proprietor of Morrison Bridge Music, has hosted the Monday
night sessions for several years with the help of a variety of some
of the city's most prolific players. Teaming up with local guitar legend,
Terry Robb and budding bassist Cassie Rosinski for the Longhorn jam,
seems like a natural fit. Wahlke, with decades of experience as a professional
drummer, shares his love for music with everyone who drops by. Stories
of his touring days with comedian Bob Hope's warm-up band or the recollection
of a humorous moment at a recent gig pepper his conversations. His
current work with Robb and Rosinski at the Monday night jam highlights
Wahlke's versatility.
Local guitar virtuoso Terry Robb's playing abilities speak for themselves.
His chops and sensitivity to the music are a joy to behold. Robb's
experience as a producer and songwriter are also worth noting. To have
such a resource involved in any session where musicians gather to play
and "talk shop" is truly invaluable. Robb seems to enjoy
his role as the "elder statesman" of the scene. During breaks
from the stage, he can often be observed sharing his insights to the
musical realm. His Northwest School Of Guitar has emerged as the area's
preeminent source of lessons for both acoustic and electric players.
Host bassist Cassie Rosinski also helps players feel welcome at the
Longhorn jam. Originally classically trained on piano and violin, Rosinski
switched to electric bass several years ago, spending time on the jam
circuit honing her chops. Aside from her work as General Manager at
Morrison Bridge Music and teaching private lessons, she performs with
the local group The Fetish Kings featuring original bluesy-rock compositions.
An avowed effects pedal "freak," she favors the modern "shoe-gazer" approach
for her stage presence.
Together, these three friendly individuals provide an easy-going
and inviting forum for players of all musical genres. The Longhorn
Saloon
itself provides an atmosphere conducive to the festivities. With
a large stage, impressive dance floor, full service bar and full
service
Oregon Lottery games, this bistro has it all. The jam session runs
from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. and is open to everyone. Grab your ax and
check out this inviting scene - see ya' there!
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