Josh Berman, cornetist and improviser, composer, as well as a music presenter, has been a key contributor to Chicago’s vibrant improvised music scene for more than ten year. His work includes both creating opportunities and forums to present improvised music. He is co-founder of Umbrella Music Group, vice president and cocurator of Emerging Improvisers Organization, and performing in a variety highly collaborative formats. Berman and his band Old Idea released their debut full-length album on Delmark Records in June 2009. It was awarded four stars by Downbeat Magazine. Ben Ratliff of The New York Times said, “I like Old Idea’s stylish cleanness… It’s an album with generous learning and no big attitude.” It has space, harmonic mobility, and gentle humor. from www.oldtownschool.org
