Brian Butts A little Q&A with Brian Butts; a pianist / keyboardist, drummer, ukulele, and banjoist. Leicester Bangs: Tell us a little about yourself. Brian: Illinois homegrown, studied jazz in Chicago.  Finished B.A. in Jazz Studies / Musical Theater in Hayward, California. Now working as a music teacher and performer. LB: How did you start out making music? Brian: It started with the drums in elementary school.  I soon then picked up the guitar and took it seriously early on. Had lessons all growing up and went on to study it and pursue a bachelor's degree in music. LB: Who did you grow up listening to and how do they influence what you’re doing now? Brian: I started on rock and metal. Dream Theater, Tony MacAlpine, Tool, etc. I moved on to jazz and classical. Anything I can get my hands on. LB: Tell us about your latest release. Brian: "Projects" is mostly instrumental. I do have a guest vocalist on one track.  I use FL studio for all my MIDI recording, multitrack recording, and mixing. I record guitars and voice, and use a MIDI controller for all other instruments. LB: Do you get out and play your music live, and if so, what can an audience expect at one of your shows? Brian: I usually just get gigs with jazz bands. I don't have a band that plays my album. But if you catch me at a bar or restaurant, you can expect a good set of jazz and classical. LB: What aspects of playing and recording music do you most enjoy? Brian: Music is the ultimate creative outlet. Having an idea turn into an entire piece is something truly amazing. Sharing it with others is an enjoyable experience. Now, just need to make a good living off it... LB: Where can people find (and buy) your music? Brian: I can be found on iTunes. "Projects" by Brian Butts. I'm on CD Baby. I also imagine I'll be on Amazon in the near future. Links below. www.cdbaby.com/cd/BrianButts www.myspace.com/brianbuttsguitar