Saxophonist, flautist, composer, and educator Vincent Herring, Kentucky-born and California-raised, has collaborated with Jazz’s greats, including Freddie Hubbard, Dizzy Gillespie, Louis Hayes, Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers, The Mingus Band, and the Horace Silver Quintet…
His extensive guest soloist appearances include performances with Wynton Marsalis at Lincoln Center and Jon Faddis and The Carnegie Hall Big Band. His current and past projects speak to the wide range of his musical interest and versatility and he tours internationally with his projects.
Vincent continues to share his distinct voice and musical knowledge, as a performer and jazz educator. He is a faculty member at William Paterson University and at Manhattan School of Music. Vincent lives in New York and has two children, James Herring (34,) and Sophia Herring (27).
UK Jazz News: What is the best advice you received about balancing/juggling parenthood and career?
Vincent Herring:Understand and embrace that your child’s needs ALWAYS come first. Make sure you get them the very best education possible. As a parent you have to be proactive.
UKJN: What information or advice do you wish you’d received but didn’t (and had to learn through trial and error or on the go)?
VH: To enjoy each and every moment with your children. The years really go by fast. One day a toddler, the next a grown man or woman. People said that to me before but I didn’t really understand.
UKJN: Your top tip(s) for other parents in jazz:
VH: Have great patience. Understand that every child is different, some will learn things incredibly fast others at a different rate. Every child’s journey is different. Make sure your child feels and knows they are loved, respected and appreciated. If some bad happens it is not the end of the world. Problem solve and learn from any adverse moments.
UKJN: Travel/gigging/tour-with-child advice. This can be gear or gadget-related, or pertain to approach/what to do/what not to do:
VH: Enjoy natural things in life. Do NOT let your child O.D. on electric gadgets. I saw a toddler in a stroller the other day while walking in the park. The mother let him play with her phone. The child missed seeing the beautiful squirrels , beautiful trees, flowers and natural surroundings. If he continues to be over stimulated it will squash his intellectual ability and his imagination.
UKJN: What is one way that figures or structures in the jazz industry could better support parents who are working jazz musicians?
VH: There are good people and policies in every field. There are also 2 sides to a coin. Some lovely people in jazz that appreciate families and go the extra mile to help you at times. When my son was young I was a part of Nat Adderley’s band, and we worked about 150+ concerts a year. I missed the beginning of a tour waiting for my son to be born, he was very late. Nat Adderley didn’t mind, he made it clear that the child’s birth was far more important than any concert. I have heard stories of band leaders that were not so understanding.
UKJN: What has surprised you about becoming a parent and remaining engaged with your professional activities and ambitions?
VH: Surprised me? Nothing, I feel your love for your children is imprinted on your DNA. I am grateful to have been a part of their life’s journey. I admire the person they have become, just incredible.
UKJN: What boundaries have you set for yourself as a parent in jazz (could be related to travel/touring, riders, personal parameters, child care decisions, etc.)?
VH: I tried to always be home for major events and holidays. I communicated often and explained where I was and how many more days before I came home. I remember once my 3-4 year son didn’t want me to go on tour. I explained to him that this was how I made money and if I stayed home I would not have any money and there would be no Christmas presents. He thought about it and waved and said bye bye Dad!
Saxophonists Eric Alexander and Vincent Herring reunite for their powerhouse third album, recorded live at SMOKE Jazz Club, featuring Mike LeDonne, John Webber, and Lewis Nash. Split Decision, out now on SMOKE Sessions Records, celebrates the 20th anniversary of their first saxophone battle.
Parents in Jazz was started (first as ‘Mothers In Jazz’) by vocalist Nicky Schrire in August 2022. The initiative aims to create an online resource for jazz industry professionals with children, those contemplating parenthood, and jazz industry figures who work with and hire musicians who are parents. The insight of the musicians and administrators interviewed for this series provides valuable emotional, philosophical and logistical information and support that is easily accessible to all. “Parents In Jazz” shines a light on the very specific role of being both a parent and a performing jazz musician or jazz arts professional.
