Ricci Becomes Finalist in Independent Music Awards Competition

Ricci Becomes Finalist in Independent Music Awards Competition

Jacksonville, Fla.—Jacksonville University is proud to announce Jazz Professor John Ricci is one of five finalists in the jazz song category of the 8th Annual Independent Music Awards (IMA) with his composition entitled "Mode Time" from his CD "Holding Time" released in 2007. Winners will be announced in January, 2009.

John Ricci

IMA finalists will be judged by the following group of artists and industry insiders: Peter Gabriel, Suzanne Vega, Roger Daltrey, George Jones, Buddy Guy, James "Blood" Ulmer, Paquito D’Rivera, Keith Urban, Lee Ritenour, DJ Skribble, Clint Black, Kurtis Blow, Zakk Wylde, Rolling Stone contributing editor Anthony DeCurtis, MTV Music Supervisor, Carrie Hughes, JVC Jazz Festival talent buyer Jason Olaine, Mastering Engineer Bob Ludwig and others.

Finalists also have a chance to win in the Vox Populi "people’s choice" Jukebox. Individuals may cast their vote online at www.IndependentMusicAwards.com. The people’s choice winners will be announced in April, 2009.

IMA finalists and winners will appear in the 11th annual edition of "The Musician’s Atlas 2009," used by independent musicians and entrepreneurs to market and sell music more successfully.

In addition, an IMA winners compilation CD will be distributed to music fans at industry events, such as SXSW, Ozzfest, The Warped Tour throughout the year and promoted to more than 650 United States and Canadian college and public radio stations.

Ricci’s music balances hard driving swing and traditional elements with a modern approach to harmony. With a wide variety of influences, he exhibits a prolific tonal palate that accompanies his musical background from his Argentine roots to his extensive jazz immersion.

For more information about Ricci, email riccitone@hotmail.com  or visit www.myspace.com/riccijazz.