Speaking for the Southern Art Music Ensemble, I'd like to thank Mr. Byrd for allowing us to play with him on the 2006 Atlanta Jazz Festival. Personally I learned a lot from the experience, and remember all of the advice he passed along during the time we played with him. We had three gigs with him over a two year period. I will be forever grateful to him. May God bless his surviving family. Peace Be Unto You Doctor and rest in peace. G Michael Ryce