Local Optometrist releases debut jazz CD

COURTESY PHOTO Dr. Leonard Avril A debut CD for musicians is always memorable, but for Dr. Leonard Avril, a board-certified optometrist with Southwest Florida Eye Care, it has special meaning when it coincides with celebrating your 50th birthday and the culmination of a lifetime love affair with music.

The launch of "In New York (After Dark)" by LAJazz (Leonard Avril Jazz) was the realization of a lifelong dream for Avril. His earliest childhood memories involved music and through the years he would occasionally take a stab at writing songs, but it wasn't until four years ago, on Father's Day specifically, when he was 46-years-old, that he embraced his passion for music when his wife and daughter bought him an acoustic guitar.

Four years later, Avril has written dozens of songs, recording 13 of his favorites on his debut CD. A self-taught guitarist and songwriter, Avril is quick to shrug off the thought that talent comes into play as well. "I was 46 when I started playing the guitar, something you usually learn earlier in life," says Avril. "I was way behind and just had to practice night and day. If I wasn't in the office with patients, I was at home with a guitar in my hands."

Daughter, Marie, was the inspiration for the CD title and two of the tracks, "My Marie in New York," and "New York (After Dark)". It was Marie's years at graduate school in the Northeast and her love for New York City that spurred Avril's affection for the city and its vibrant music culture.

Not forgetting his Southwest Florida roots, Avril also managed to swing a little Florida influence on his debut CD with the smooth sounds of the "Gator Groove Jam," and "Lucia's Gator Groove".

Writing songs, playing guitar and recording CDs is not something usually associated with doctors. "Music is something I can do forever," he said. "It recharges my batteries and allows me to be even better at a job I love."

Next up for talented doctor and musician, a second CD in the works with an eclectic collection of songs moving beyond jazz and blues to easy listening and a little rock 'n roll thrown in for fun. Avril's writing ability expands in future songs as well, with lyrics written by Avril and to be performed by local Southwest Florida talent.

"In New York (After Dark)" is available online through iTunes, Napster, Rhapsody and Amazon. Avril also has CDs available in his office.