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Leaning House Records > Fred Sanders
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Fredrick Sanders has a vision for his life that is impressive. He also has a deep and abiding faith in
God. After knowing Fred for six months, I believe it is his faith which has allowed him to make
some big decisions in his life without worrying as much about the outcome. Before you read too
much into any of this, however, understand that what drives Fred is music, and jazz is his primary
passion.
Fred’s passion for jazz began at the Dallas Arts Magnet School, where he first heard trumpeter Roy
Hargrove. Hearing Roy play was inspiration enough for Fred, who played cello at the time, to begin
playing piano to get into the jazz band at Arts Magnet (there were no cello parts). He made the
jazz band, on piano, by his senior year. This type of hard work, with a vision, is what separates Fred
Sanders from most of the other musicians I have known. They had the talent to spare, but Fred
understands how to get the most out of every chord, and he is dedicated to the effort.
When we met at the recording session which became his first CD in June 1997, I was impressed by
Fred’s music, but also by his drive, his compassion, his commitment, his energy, and the obvious
love he and his friends have for each other. All that is tangible now from that session is a videotape
left largely unedited, and the musical document and pictures contained in Leaning House BB-006 "East of Vilbig."
You will be pleased to know that the music and reminiscences from Fred make it more than
enough. Musically, this is Fred’s autobiography CD. There is so much of him in it, that it should be
subtitled "My Life." But do not pre-judge this as Fred’s first CD, because the music performed here
is at a consistently high level, delivered by musicians who have been around. Roy Hargrove, Mark
Whitfield, Marchel Ivery, Donald Brooks and Roland Guerin are all consummate professionals who
have played with Fred before, and have played with him again since this recording.
When you listen to "East of Vilbig," forget that the title comes from where Fred grew up in East
Dallas. Remember instead that this recording is about the experiences of family, friends and faith
that Fred still uses every day in his music and his life. It is an honest recording by an honest man
and his friends, who gathered for several days in San Marcos, Texas to record a CD for Fred. It is
professionally recorded and musically significant. For a sophisticated listener, I would say that it
swings and has that "vibe" that Fred talks about. I hope you will find out for yourself.
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