The Nashville Sessions

The Nashville Sessions

Just when I thought, “I’ve had enough, done enough…

After 72 years playing without missing a gig, it might be an okay time for an intermission?” Then, Jeff Coffin called while he was on a trip to Bath, Maine…

A few days later we met for coffee and l explained my musical situation. I was ready to throw in the sponge…I was having  problems getting the sound I wanted, felt generally uncomfortable, and was not wanting to play out any more. He said. “Come to Nashville and let’s record!” and I thought…”Why not?’…and, “If not now, when?” Three weeks later l headed south in my ancient Dodge van for points South…

The result has been a life-changing experience after a lifetime of life-changing experiences.

My first night at Jeff’s was spent in his studio exploring new and different combinations of mouthpieces and reeds; eliminating some squeaks and squawks. At one point, a barrel Jeff asked me to try got completely stuck on the clarinet and we had to cut it off the instrument! That was a close one…

Day One: We went to the Yamaha Studios in Franklin, TN and recorded for six or seven hours in various duo combinations. I felt pretty comfortable with the new clarinet setup and felt like I’d been playing with pianist Pat Coil for at least 20 years. (We had met only 20 minutes before the tape started rolling!) We ended up with 6 tunes that day. 

Day Two: I met Jon Cowherd, Jordon Perlson & Victor Krauss and started recording immediately…5 tunes. Jeff joined us for 2 tunes written by our dear departed friend, and brilliant drummer/composer/pianist, Steve Grover.  Once again, it felt like playing with old friends. Been doin’ it for years! The opening tune, “Blues for Big Jim” was written by another close friend of mine, pianist, Eddy Thompson.

Even though this was recorded in a studio, this album is pretty close to being “Live”. No rehearsals, just brief discussions and then we played. Most tunes were first takes. A few second takes were recorded, with a few of those used on the recording. From my perspective, it’s an honest presentation of the way it happened and I couldn’t be happier.

I’m deeply honored and grateful to Jeff and the, “guys” for putting up with me and for your amazing support.

- Btski (Brad)

I have known Brad for over 40 years and he is a musical treasure and a wonder to be around! He’s a legend!! This is such a beautiful recording and I’m thrilled to be part of it and to have experienced the incredible playing of Brad with Pat Coil, Jordan Perlson, Viktor Krauss, and Jon Cowherd!
- Jeff Coffin
(Saxophonist w/Dave Matthews Band, 3x Grammy winner/Bela Fleck & the Flecktones, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Member)

Brad Terry, born in 1937, is a distinguished American jazz clarinetist and whistler renowned for his improvisational prowess. Raised in Stamford, Connecticut, Brad was encouraged to pursue the clarinet by his neighbor, the legendary Benny Goodman. Throughout his illustrious career, Terry has collaborated with jazz luminaries such as Dizzy Gillespie, Lenny Breau, Roger Kellaway, Red Mitchell, and Buddy Tate. He has also conducted workshops in Poland, nurturing young musical talents.

In 2025, and approaching 88 years young, Terry continues to perform and share his musical insights. He emphasizes the importance of improvisation, stating, "I try to hear something in my head and play it accurately once and then move on.”

Terry's discography includes notable recordings such as The Complete Living Room Tapes with guitarist Lenny Breau, showcasing his unique ability to blend clarinet and whistling in jazz, Remember with drummer Steve Grover, All About Spring with pianist Joachim Mencel, and, most recently, The Nashville Sessions (2025 Ear Up Records) which documents Brad’s musical meetings with some of the finest improvising musicians in Music City.