Tardo Hammer

A student of Lennie Tristano disciple, Sam Mosca, Hammer was first introduced to jazz by his amateur musician parents, who listened to Stan Getz and Charlie Parker. In the late 1970s, Hammer met with limited success after moving to New York City, where he gigged with saxophonist David Schnitter and trumpeter Brian Lynch, among others. In the 1980s, Hammer hit his stride, performing regularly with saxophonist Junior Cook and trumpeter Bill Hardman, and then with the Art Farmer-Clifford Jordan Quintet. In the 1990s, Hammer continued playing as a sideman for a number of vocalists, including Abbey Lincoln and Annie Ross, and led his own groups at New York City clubs. He recorded as a sideman occasionally, and taught at the Lucy Moses School near Lincoln Center. In 1999, Hammer Time, his debut recording as a leader, was released by Sharp Nine Records. Two years later he followed up with Somethin' Special, featuring Dennis Irwin on bass and Leroy Williams on drums.