My family is ridiculously talented. That’s why I have a regular Nepotism feature … I frequently feel the need to boast about their myriad accomplishments.

Yeah, I’ve totally been indoctrinated by Western society’s obsession with the ceaseless forward propulsion of one’s career. And proud of it!

My brother Ben Wendel has two spectacular shows on the horizon — one at The Jazz Gallery in NYC and another at The Barnsdall Theater in Hollywood. He’ll be premiering his six movement suite for a sextet of musicians … a project commissioned by the Chamber Music America New Works Grant. Um, how hardcore is that? What a jazz maverick!

Due to geographical difficulties, I won’t be able to attend either gig … but if you live on either coast you should high-tail it to your local jazzery, toot suite.

Congratulations, Ben!

(Photo via Nick Perzik’s Flickr account)