Quotes
Rich Shemaria is one of NYC's bright stars in the arranging and composing department! He's developed his perfect stylistic personality as a writer at an early age, and has built upon that style, growing from year to year! I have many charts of his in my book, and they are among the best in my library! Simply put he's one of my favorite composer/arrangers!
-Randy Brecker trumpeter/composer/arranger/and bandleader
Rich is a superior musician. He’s written great arrangements of my tunes among many others. His charts included very original ideas as well as surprising harmonizations of my tunes.
- John Scofield
Rich Shemaria has a thorough understanding of all the fundamental aspects of jazz composition: melody, harmony, rhythm, orchestration, and stylistic authenticity. His charts are always clearly written, and always fun to play and hear.
- Chris Potter
Rich Shemaria is an ultra-high level arranger and composer and a first class friend.
- Lenny Pickett Saxophonist (Saturday Night Live, Tower of Power)
I’ve been a rabid fan since my first encounter with Rich’s marvelous collection of brass quintet charts (a…few years ago); since that time, getting to know & work with Rich has been a truly grand privilege in everyway.
- R.J. Kelley French Horn, Manhattan Brass Quintet
Rich Shemaria is a great arranger, classical, jazz or otherwise. Great musical choices in whatever he plays too. Call him and check him out. My recommendation.
-Lenny White Drummer/Composer
Rich brings an invigorating look to the brass chamber music repertoire. His writing is clear, idiomatic, and his harmonies and interweaving lines create an interesting web for both listener and performer. His music certainly is challenging- it requires ensembles to dive deep into the score; making the final product that much more rewarding and polished. Shemaria’s works are also quite versatile - both slower tempo and groove pieces are quite effective, and makes me want to dance and sing!
-Rebecca Steinberg, trumpet (Calliope Brass, NYC Freelance Musician)
