Services

Composition & Scoring

Expanding the Palette

We live at a very interesting moment in the world of the creative arts. Never before have we been so challenged and so blessed at the same time. The availability of inexpensive technology has permitted artists to realize their work at qualities never before seen. And the Internet has allowed communication with others who share our interests. We can speak with and exchange ideas, worldwide, with the click of a button.

CINE Golden Eagle The other side of that equation has challenged old business models by changing the rules of the game. Artists, and their capacity for adaptation, are being asked to grow and expand in ways we've never had to before. Fortunately, as artists, we are well used to challenging times.

While none of us knows where this is ultimately going to land, what is clear is that musicians, actors, dancers, visual artists, filmmakers and writers all are playing in an all-inclusive, creative media environment. Interesting cross-polinations can take place where they weren't possible before. My own project The Path of Peace was just such an exploration (musical improvisation and visual art & painting).

As a composer, this means that my compositions can and will end up becoming a part of someone else's work - opening possibilities that stretch both artforms. At the apex of this development, filmmaking becomes one of the most interesting and powerful candidates for creative musical and conceptual exploration.

Our work is to stretch into areas that offer high potential for artistic and social good. If you are an artist who is also interested in this idea, get in touch with me or post to the blog. I just think we should be talking about the historical imperatives of this time - while that history unfolds around us...

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Music Production

The key to music production is bringing the artist forward - out of the musician or the singer. Everyone - and I mean everyone - has an artist within. But the key is mutually deciding what that artist stands for, who they are, what their unique voice and message is, and manifesting that in sound and presentation. That's what makes a great artist and a great production that is natural, unforced and powerful emotionally. And that is what creates a market and an audience. Anything short of that, makes no sense to put effort into.

I have been producing singers and musicians since the early 1990's. During that time, I've been fortunate to be entrusted with the production for some extraordinary artists. A few examples are presented below:

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Session Keyboards

I do provide piano and keyboard sessions at scalable rates for select projects. These sessions can be live sessions, or can be done as overdubs transferred over the internet. Since I have such a wonderful studio facility, I am able to receive two-tracks via FTP or email, cut Acoustic Piano, Fender Rhodes, Prophet 5, Korg Oasys or any other number of virtual synths to stereo tracks (up to 96K/24Bit) so you can incorporate these into your mixes.

Please contact me if you are interested.

   

Music Direction

The Musical Director (MD) is the person who organizes live performances, similar to how the producer organizes a recording project. Their responsibility is to insure that the musicians, singers, sound and support staff support the various artists who are being presented. This includes everything from writing arrangements and artist rehearsals to performing and conducting the band during the performances themselves.

I have acted as musical director for over 30 years in various context - from small jazz groups to large ensembles, supporting single artists to multiple artists at music festivals, broadcast television events, benefits and concerts. I've often been hired to create the musical environment for large, multi-day conventions that featured a broad range of different talent.

Below are a few highlights:

  • Association for Global New Thought
  • Autism Speaks
  • Artivist Film Festival
  • Agape Revelation
  • Haiti Benefit
  • Cochelo Smooth Jazz Benefit
  • Bird York
  • Jesse Campbell
For more information, or to discuss your project with me, please contact me here.
   

Teaching

I occasionally accept students who have a need for help with piano technique, theory, improvisation and other areas. Of particular note, I am able to help strategize with a student for long term study, which permits them to work on their own. This allows the student to make progress while I am not available (on tour for example).

I am also available to give instruction via email and audio file as well.

Please contact me if you are interested.

   

Tour Dates

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Piano Meditation DVD

The Path of Peace

Powertools for Transformation

A gorgeous audio/visual journey featuring the solo piano of Ben Dowling and the evolving art of visionary painter, Mark Wagner.

With rave reviews from around the world, The Path of Peace generates a multi-sensory field of contemplative, unhurried loveliness - for listening, creating and meditation.

Regular Price: $19.95. Special Price: $14.95. More than one: $12.95 each!

Latest Record!

World Rising

Inspired by Hancock & Zawinul

Keyboardist Ben Dowling brings jazz, world and funk influences together in a percussion-rich groove-centric CD featuring Mindi Abair, Will Kennedy, Bob Sheppard, Satnam Ramgotra, Niki Haris and the late, great Carl Anderson.