Rich Shemaria has spent decades working behind the scenes with some of music’s biggest names—Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder, Joe Lovano, and the Brecker Brothers among them. Now, the New York City-based composer and pianist is stepping into a more public-facing role with the launch of a new blog that promises to pull back the curtain on his creative process and the unexpected influences that drive his work.
The blog, which went live recently, offers something unusual in the world of classical and jazz composition: an intimate look at how disparate passions intersect. In his inaugural post, “The Unseen Hand: How Underdogs, Depression, and Creativity Shape a Life,” Shemaria explores the connection between his lifelong devotion to the New York Mets and his approach to musical composition. It’s an unconventional pairing, but one that reflects his willingness to examine the full spectrum of influences that shape artistic output.
The Mets Connection
Perhaps the most surprising element of Shemaria’s new platform is his open exploration of how baseball fandom influences his artistic work. Former New York Mets first baseman Keith Hernandez, now part of the SNY broadcast team, recently acknowledged the venture: “You have a new blog, congratulations! Evidently you are linking music composition to being a Mets fan, it’s very creative on your part. I wish you all the luck.”
The blog isn’t just about baseball and music, though. Shemaria has indicated he’ll be exploring themes of creativity, depression, and underdog narratives—subjects that resonate far beyond the world of professional musicians. For jazz fans and aspiring composers alike, the platform offers a rare glimpse into how a working artist maintains relevance across decades of industry changes.
As the music industry continues to evolve, with composers increasingly expected to maintain their own platforms and direct relationships with audiences, Shemaria’s blog represents a veteran artist adapting to new realities. His goal is straightforward: more exposure for his work and insights into the creative process that might benefit other musicians navigating similar paths.
A Multifaceted Career
Shemaria’s resume reads like a masterclass in musical versatility. He’s directed the UMO Jazz Orchestra in Finland, led his own Rich Shemaria Jazz Orchestra, and composed for everything from jazz combos to full symphony orchestras. His arrangements have been performed by the Airmen of Note and saxophonist Tom Scott, while his work with luminaries like Teo Macero and Lenny Pickett has cemented his reputation in jazz circles.
Since 2003, he’s been teaching composition at New York University, following previous positions at Mannes College and the Sibelius Academy. That two-decade tenure suggests an artist committed to passing on knowledge while continuing to refine his own craft.