Howard and the band at the conclusion of their workshop for students at Castleton University
"Howard Fishman and his band visited us at Castleton University for a very busy day during which they presented not only their formal evening concert but also a children's concert/workshop through our ArtsReach school program and a noontime workshop for university students. To say their work with both groups was inspiring, challenging, and thought-provoking is an enormous understatement. By the time the children's concert was concluding, the band had been joined on stage by every kid in the audience for an enormous, improvised dance party--an experience described by one fifth-grader afterwards as "the best thing EVER." And their ability to shift gears in less than two hours to present a behind-the-scenes look into how the band works synergistically to come up with innovative arrangements of American roots and rock music was nothing short of breathtaking. We can't wait to have them back--neither can the whole Castleton community!"
- Richard Cowden, Presenter of Fine Arts, Castleton University, VT
Cornetist Kirk Knuffke working with students during a Howard Fishman Quartet workshop at Dual Language & Arts Magnet Middle School in Waterford, CT
"Howard Fishman and his band gave a wonderful concert at Connecticut College. While here, Howard also spoke with Connecticut College students about careers in music. They found his perspective very informative and refreshing. Howard is a thoughtful artist, and engaged the students in meaningful discussion. While in residence at Connecticut College, his quartet also presented a concert at the Dual Language & Arts Magnet Middle School, and a blues workshop for the school’s ukulele orchestra. Howard and his bandmates had a great rapport with the students, and led the ukulele orchestra through exercises that built their confidence in playing, and their understanding of the blues. The band was able to set the students at ease and stretch their abilities."
- Robert Richter, Director of Arts Programming, Connecticut College
Master Class on Making a Career as a Professional Musician, at Connecticut College
"Howard and his band were incredibly collaborative and generous with their time and willingness to engage with our audiences. Howard was invested in his performance and residency at our venue well before he arrived here. He was eager for his performance to have relevance within the context of a liberal arts institution. He was open to ideas we had about how we could share his interests and work with our community. It was clear that Howard and his band were interested in relationship-building. During the artists' lecture/ demonstration scheduled earlier in the day for our campus and local community, they opened up with stories connected to their material in new and intriguing ways. The concert was awesome! Our audience loved the show, the chemistry and innovation among the musicians, and appreciated how personable the artists were with them afterwards. We truly enjoyed working with Howard and we look forward to working together again down the road."
- Sharon Fantl, Redfrern Arts Center Assistant Director, Keene State University
Songwriting workshop with students at Door Countty Auditorium in Fish Creek, Wisconsin. Photo by Len Villano
"Howard's visit at Hotchkiss was everything we hoped it would be. He is a fine teacher, not just of his craft but of the history behind the music. His presence in our classrooms brought out a curiosity from our students about subjects they have not had a whole lot of experience with. He helped them stretch into places somewhat unfamiliar and by doing so got them in touch with themselves a little bit more. He engaged the community and they engaged him."
- Chris Burchfield, Hotchkiss School, CT