MusicandMathematics.com is an online learning site specializing in mathematical logic applied to all materials of music. This system will help students learn the principles behind: songwriting, arranging, orchestration, improvisation and underscoring. No matter the instrument, MusicandMathematics.com introduces an entirely distinctive approach to music. The online workshops and videos can be very valuable, especially to songwriters.
One-on-one Skype classes are available. Members receive updates on all new videos. Music tips on songwriting, improvisation, arranging and more. Free Membership!
Joe Kurasz - Director
Joe Kurasz, a music educator for over 45 years and instructor at MusicandMathematics.com, includes work with many composers and industry professionals:
• Denny Diante ( Barbra Streisand, Tina Turner, BB King…)
• Alan Menken ( composer of Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Pocahontas, Beauty and the Beast…)
• Dave Wilkes (Barry Manilow, Ringo Starr, Joan Baez…)
• Bill Aucoin ( Manager of KISS, Billy Idol…)
• Gary Anderson (composer- Guiding Light, Family Feud, All My Children….)
• Cab Calloway
...plus appearances ranging from film soundtracks to reality television and daytime soaps.
Joe composed music on THE BRAVEST, a show on CBS. Applauded by the viewing public as the first series to accurately portray real life firefighters in real-life situations. Joe also composed music for B SMITH WITH STYLE which aired on NBC and was a composer for THE GUIDING LIGHT.
Joe is also the recipient of a H.E.A.R.T. grant awarded to develop and conduct workshops for high school students on the topic "From Idea To Song".
Composed original song "Intergeneration" performed by New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra at Lincoln Center and on NBC's "4 Stories" Television Show.
Joe's original song "Just A Simple Song" was voted #1 Jazz Song in Billboard Magazine's Songwriting Competition.
Joe has also received credit for his contribution to Disney's 4 CD box set "The Music Behind The Magic" featuring composer Alan Menken and lyricists Tim Rice and the late Howard Ashman.
Invited to perform original music from his showcase CD at the Maui Music Festival in Hawaii.
TEACHING MUSIC AND MATHEMATICS
Teaching music is as much a part of Joe's life as performing is. Joe introduces Structure of Melody, Composition and Improvisation early in his teaching methods in group classes and private piano instruction. These programs introduce mathematical logic to all materials of music and their functions.
Reviews
Jazziz Magazine
"An immediately enjoyable indie gem, featuring a mix of funk, smooth jazz, the tastiest Hammond B3 lines this side of Joey DeFrancesco, and a sensuous cameo by Gerald Albright"
- Jonathan Widran, JAZZIZ Magazine
The Jazz Nation
I've never heard the B3 played like this before. You'll take notice too as Joe Kurasz takes a step on the funky side with
the tunes Funky B and Takin' A Break.
Kurasz lays down some serious HAMMOND B3 attitude as he showcases great improvi-sation and George Naha answers perfectly with stand-up guitar work.
Gerald Albright guests on the CD bringing his sultry alto sax to the Crossroads . WithKurasz on B3/keyboards, Naha on guitar and a great hook, this sexy tune has got to be one of my favorites on the disc. One thing's for sure... it'll leave you wanting more!
On his latest record, Joe Kurasz has done some Soul Searching . Full of interesting melodies and fantastic improvisations, this is an album that will stir yours! SoulSearching resonates!
-D.J . Fazio
Smoothjazz.com
Keyboardist/Pianist/Hammond B3er, Joe Kurasz began playing at a very early age. His influences where from all genres of music and they included artists like Booker T., John Coltrane, The Temptations, and Burt Bacharach. Soul Searching is an exceptional collection of songs that nod to soulful nostalgia. This project just may end up being my personal favorite independent release this year. Who doesn't love the Hammond B3? It's liquid sunshine...
Joe Kurasz has that special something that makes Bob James and Joe Sample's music so delicious. A true feel good CD, starting off with "Funky B" a great intro to a killer collection of tracks that include fantastic originals like the Smooth Jazz smash "Crossroads" featuring Gerald Albright on sax and covers including a sweet version of Jim Croce's "Operator" plus, "If Loving You Is Wrong", and "Fooled Around And Fell In Love". Every track is exceptional.
-Sandy Shore SMOOTHJAZZ.COM
Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes
"Joe Kurasz gives an electriifying performance on his latest CD, "Soul Searching."He combines elements of rhythm and blues, soul and something else so old it's new again. Kurasz uses the sound of the vintage Hammond B3 and piano for a sound that awakens the soul of anybody who still remembers "If Lovin' You Is Wrong." Other tracks worth hearing include "Funky B," "Crossroads" and "Fooled Around and Fell in Love," And more. This is a keeper.
Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes - By Alice O'Neil
ABYSSJAZZ Magazine
"Joe Kurasz not only gave us interesting melodies, fantastic improvisations and great musicianship......he gave the Diva her voice back. The Hammond B3 speaks ...and Kurasz is the truth. Word!
- Lyndah Malloy-Glover ABYSSJAZZ Magazine