Complete 2009 Network Member

Additions

We are highly honored to have more fantastic musicians joining our network!

All of these artists have joined our network in the past year!!

Abraham Laboriel is a bassist who has played on over 4,000 recordings and soundtracks. Guitar Player Magazine described him as "the most widely used session bassist of our time."

Abraham was born in Mexico City. Originally a classically trained guitarist, he switched to bass guitar while studying at the Berklee School of Music. Henry Mancini encouraged Abraham to move to Los Angeles, California and pursue a recording career.

Since then, he has worked with artists as diverse as Donald Fagen, Lee Ritenour, Larry Carlton, Dave Grusin, Stevie Wonder, Barbara Streisand, Al Jarreau, Billy Cobham, Dolly Parton, Elton John, Ray Charles, Madonna, Paul Simon, Andrae' Crouch, The Winans, The Crusaders, Keith Green, Quincy Jones, Umberto Tozzi, Ron Kenoly, Chris Isaak, Paul Jackson Jr., Alison Krauss, and Michael Jackson.

In 2005, Abraham was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Music by the Berklee College of Music.

Abraham was a founding member of the bands, Friendship and Koinonia. He now is a member of "Open Hands" with Justo Almario, Greg Mathieson and Bill Maxwell.

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Greg Mathieson has been a native of Southern California his whole life. He started piano lessons at the age of 10.  During  High and High School, he continued to play the piano and took harmony lessons. In 1970, he attended CSUN for one year. At this point, he decided to become a professional musician.

 From 1974 -1976, he traveled with Helen Reddy around the world and from 1976-1978 he traveled with Olivia Newton-John. Greg played on two of the hit singles from the movie sound track of Grease that featured Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta. During 1977-78, Greg started his own fusion band and started playing at Jazz clubs, like the Baked Potato.  At this same time he met guitarist Larry Carlton, with whom he has recorded four albums with and still continues to perform with.

In 1978, Greg became a part of the vibrant L.A. studio scene. Not only did he become one of the top keyboard session players, but he also became one of the top arrangers, including string and horn arrangements. It was at this time that he played and arranged his first hits with Donna Summer, Barbara Streisand, Deniece Williams, and the sound track for Midnight Express.  As a producer he has garnered praise and top hits with Tony Basil's "Mickey and"Laura Branigan's "Gloria." Greg also produced two records for Sheena Easton that went platinum, and he has produced four "Top Ten" singles.

On the keys he has played "Jazz" with Al Jarraeu, Manhattan Transfer and Larry Carlton; "Pop" with Barbara Streisand, Deniece Williams Toni Basil and Sheena Easton; "Rock" with the members of Toto; "R & B" with Christina Aguilara, Tina Turner, Gladys Knight and Peobo Bryson; "Dance" with Donna Summer and Laura Branigan; "Blues" with Robben Ford; "Country" with Faith Hill and Randy Travis; "Soul" with Martha & The Vandellas and The Stylistics; "Gospel" with Helen Baylor and Andre Crouch; "World" with Jonathon Butler; "Latin" with Julio Iglesias and Jose Jose; and "Reggae" with Jimmy Clift.

Greg is now working with Abraham Laboriel, Justo Almario and Bill Maxwell with their new group "Open Hands."

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Bill Maxwell was born and raised in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. His mother was a jazz pianist who died two months after giving birth to him. Encouraged by his Grandparents to study music, Bill entered a music pre-school at two years of age.

Bill started playing drums professionally at the age of twelve. One of his first bands was with legendary blues guitarist Jesse Ed. Davis. Bill was a member of "The Third Avenue Blues Band" whose album was produced by T Bone Burnett in 1969.

Bill moved to Los Angeles in 1972 as a member of Andrae Crouch and the Disciples. He has produced 8 Grammy winning recordings for The Winans, Andrae Crouch and others. Maxwell also formed the band "Koinonia" with his dear friend Abraham Laboriel. Bill was the music director for the television shows The Jamie Foxx Show, Martin, Living Single, For Your Love, Amen, and many more.

Bill has recorded with Cassandra Wilson, T Bone Burnett, Ray Charles, Billy Preston, Quincy Jones, The Crusaders, The Nappy Roots, Freddie Hubbard, Anita Baker, Luther Vandross and many more. Bill worked as a music producer and musician with the Coen brothers on their films "The Ladykillers"  "Romance" and "Cigarettes", and he worked as a featured musician on the film "Walk The Line".

Bill is thrilled to be a member of the new group "Open Hands" with Abraham Laboriel, Justo Almario and Greg Mathieson. In October 2008, Bill was inducted into The Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, and he is a member of The Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

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The fourth member of the group Open Hands is Justo Almario (who has been a CJA Network member for many years!)

A multi-instrumentalist of the highest caliber, Justo Almario has mastered the soprano and tenor saxophones, clarinet and flute. Always in demand, Justo’s complete list of credits and Grammy Award recordings are simply too extensive to mention

More on Justo Almario here!

 

 

 

 

 

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Open Hands

This instrumental jazz band combines native South American rhythms, American jazz, along with rhythm and blues to create a unique and sophisticated sound. 

For Booking Information visit here

To hear audio samples and preview their upcoming CD release visit here!

For more information visit:

 www.openhandsmusic.net

 

 Tony Guerrero has established himself in a variety of areas over the last twenty years. His work as a contemporary jazz flugelhorn player, trumpeter, composer and producer has garnered him both critical success and a world-wide audience. He has toured the United States and much of the world as a headliner in major jazz festivals, concert venues and clubs and has enjoyed commercial radio success not only with his own releases but with music he's written for other artists. To date, he has released 8 solo CDs as well as a variety of special releases and has appeared on countless other artist's recordings (trumpet, flugelhorn, piano, guitar, producer, composer, arranger and more).

Aside from his work in the contemporary and classic jazz fields he has produced albums in a variety of arenas, from jazz to rock to country. Most recently he has been establishing himself as a producer in the Christian Pop & Worship fields. His own worship songs, most notably "(I Will Not Be) Shaken" have been recorded and used in churches around the world.

Tony is presently Director of Creative Arts at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California (Rick Warren, Senior Pastor) where he works with literally hundreds of musicians and singers on everything from weekly services to recordings to concerts. Tony spends his spare time writing about and teaching apologetics for the Christian Faith, cooking, drawing and varied other interests, including maintaining a large personal collection of Louis Armstrong memorabilia. He and his wife Candice live in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, with their daughter Ella and son Nico.

His new release "Apasianado" CD showcases Tony's eloquent mastery of his instrument with 12 all-new Latin-inspired tracks featuring guest performances by saxophonist Eric Marienthal, Grammy®-nominated bassist Brian Bromberg, guitarist Grant Geissman, pianist Bill Cantos, and up-and-coming vocalist Sara Gazarek.

Jazziz Magazine -  "His emotion is nearly palpable throughout a powerful and moving horn performance".

 

For more info/hear samples visit here!  or visit: www.tonyguerrero.com

 Adam Nitti has emerged as one of the cutting edge bassists and composers in the world of instrumental jazz fusion and rock. Adam has toured with the Dave Weckl band, Jeff Coffin Mu’tet, the Justice League, and Angie Aparo, and has also performed with such legendary artists as Scott Henderson, T. Lavitz, Peter Erskine, Jimmy Herring, Mike Stern, Kirk Covington, Susan Tedeschi, Wayne Krantz, and many others. He is currently the bassist with Steven Curtis Chapman, a 5 time Grammy winning artist.

In addition to being a performer and composer, Adam is also Chief Learning Officer for MusicDojo.com, a new type of interactive online music school. He is also a bass clinician for SWR, D'Addario, and Warrior Instruments, and is a staff instructor for Victor Wooten's bass & nature camps. Adam is also a regular columnist for Bass Player magazine, an adjunct faculty member of Lagrange College's school of music, an instructor at Gerald Veasley's bass boot camps, and has done dozens of clinic/performance appearances at such events as the Bozeman Bass Bash, Bassquake, and others.

Adam's latest CD release "Evidence" features a high energy musical offering fusion of jazz, funk, and rock with plenty of variety. Appealing to both music listeners and players alike, with performances by Dave Weckl, Victor Wooten, Shane Theriot, and many other outstanding musicians.

For more info/hear samples visit here!  

Visit Adam's Web Site www.adamnitti.com

Rique Pantoja  has a solid track record as composer, arranger, keyboardist, producer and song writer. His solo career has made him internationally known as a prolific writer in many styles. His CDs have been released in the U.S., Japan, Australia, Europe and Korea.

Rique was born in Rio de Janeiro where he worked extensively as pianist/musical director/arranger for some of the top pop artists, receiving the 1990 Brahma Extra Award “Grandes Nomes da Musica Popular Brasileira” and Victor Assis Brasil Award, in recognition of his important contributions to the music industry. He was member of the renowned   "Cama de Gato" quartet; 86-87 best seller instrumental in Brazil. After 3 years at the Berklee College of Music (Boston) and another year studying privately, he moved to Paris where for 2 years worked on a number of projects.

Rique’s credits range from projects and performances with such renowned artists as:

Alejandro Sanz, Ricky Martin, Ernie Watts, Carlos Santana, Chet Baker, Alessandro Safina, Brenda Russel, Yasuko Agawa, Milton Nascimento, Ivan Lins, Djavan, Gilberto Gil, Gal Costa, João Bosco, Caetano Veloso, Gonzaguinha, Guinga, Marina, Lee Ritenour, Christopher Parkening, Jubilant Sykes, Romina Arena, Israel Houghton, Ron Kenoly, Kirk Whalum, Tommy Walker and many others. 

One of his most recent collaborations was with a couple of CJA Members saxophonist Justo Almario and bassist Guillermo Guzman.  The title of the CD is "Holy, Holy, Holy" ( Hymns to a Different Drum )

"Rique uses his unique command of re-harmonization and Latin rhythms to come up with a CD full of unusually innovative arrangements with Justo Almario's heart felt playing throughout, the consistent perfection in percussion ofWalter Rodriguez, and beautiful bass of Guillermo Guzman (check out his reading of "Amazing Grace" for proof; "Holy, Holy,Holy" will lead you to a place you won't want to leave!"

 

 For more info/hear samples visit here!

Visit Rique's Web Site www.riquepantoja.com

Craig Buhler is a UCLA music major where he studied clarinet with Mitchell Lurie, saxophone & flute with Bill Green, ear training with Alvin Learned, and composition with Doug Leedy.

Craig toured & recorded with British singer Ian Matthews and played ih the jazz group “Storyville”,  appearing in concerts with Dizzy Gillespie and the Crusaders. Among his 30 recording credits are 6 CD’s under his own name. Craig is a charter member of the acclaimed California rock band HONK, which toured nationally with the Beach Boys, Loggins & Messina, Chicago, Santana, and others. Craig also currently plays first tenor sax with Sequim’s Stardust Big Band.

Craig serves as Worship Director for the Little Brown Church of Blyn, Washington and is former Worship Director for the Vineyard Christian Fellowship of Seattle.  In addition to Craig’s two original worship recordings, he appears on CD’s by Vineyard artists Andy Park, Kevin Prosch, & Brian Doerksen. Craig has presented his 2-day “Total Immersion” seminar for worship musicians to churches in five states. Craig’s “Jazz For Youth” band has performed at over a hundred school assemblies, religious conferences, and civic functions.

Craig is the author of 2 books on music. “New Ears Resolution” is a revolutionary new ear training method which has proven effective with scores of students on many instruments. “Keys to Music” is a complete course in jazz woodwind technique which includes 54 original etudes.

"Craig Buhler shows amazing versatility in both his performing and writing in this collection of beguiling original compositions that range from straight ahead jazz to moody latin tempos and even a cha cha...  A superb result - well worth repeated play."
 

For more info/hear samples visit here!  

Visit Craig's Web Site: http://craigbuhler.com

Dorothy Collins is a singer with a passion for the lyrical beauty and spontaneous vitality of jazz. Her reputation has grown rapidly during the last seven years, and she has honed a musical personality that is strong, refined, and uniquely her own.

She has worked with some great musicians: John Patitucci, 7-string guitarist Dave Schroeder, Anders Swanson, Eric Stiller, Cecelia Coleman,  Jack Sheldon, Doc Rutherford, Ross Thompkin, and many others.

A creative partnership with pianist/composer Mark Massey has resulted in a remarkable repertoire of jazz and Brazilan standards, as well as a few fresh renderings of popular classics. Mark's imaginative arrangements, combined with Dorothy's rich vocals give you an exciting concoction of straight-ahead jazz. The album entitled Jazz Hymns is a project that grew out of this partnership.

Dorothy shares,"We have attempted to present not only a historical survey of hymns, one as old as 1100 years, others 350 and 200 years old, but a broad spectrum of styles of jazz including traditional, modern, Brazilian, fusion, R&B, and gospel. Our objective is to present jazz to non-jazz listeners (Christians who will appreciate the old hymns), and to present some interesting, straight-ahead jazz to people who wouldn't think of listening to Christian music."

"It swings, it's funky, and it's straight-ahead as well. The musicianship is superlative, the arrangements brilliant, and the vocals are both earthy and angelic. This album redefines 'hymn' while at the same time pays homage to songs that have reverberated with love for God for hundreds of years."

For more info/hear samples visit here!

Visit Dorothy's Web Site: www.dotcollins.com

Wenda Zonnefeld has a diversified musical background. Growing up in a musical family (everyone played at least one instrument and sang), Wenda was encouraged to pursue various musical interests. She performed in church and school, sang in musicals and wrote songs for her teachers to play. As a young adult Wenda became a certified musical instrument repair technician and repaired instruments for many of the Seattle area schools. Soon professionals were using Wenda's repair services, and Wenda took advantage of learning from some of these seasoned pros who were her customers. Don Lanphere, Bud Shank, Phil Woods, Nick Brignola, Bill Ramsay, Dick Oates, Bobby Shew, and Pete Christlieb (to name a few) all gave Wenda musical advice and encouragement.

 Wenda has also developed a curriculum for high school students who want to learn how to play jazz improvised solos. She volunteers and teaches this mini course at High Schools. Performing for Wenda has always been rewarding, but her CD recording made it evident that composing and studio work was in Wenda's blood. She enrolled in The Pacific Northwest Film Scoring Program under the tutelage of Hummie Mann, and soon found herself scoring her first film. Wenda is now fully equipped with a recording studio and able to composed film music/scores for a wide range of budgets.

Wenda's CD "Latina By Proxy", includes a wide variety of Latin Jazz styles that can make even the docile get up and dance! The CD has received very good reviews.

"Wenda's soprano playing is quite enjoyable, with a singing quality that enhances tunes....the baritone is heavy by nature, and it takes something special to make certain things especially lyrical playing work on it. Wenda makes this lyrical quality appear easy."-Nick Brignola

For more info/hear samples visit here!

Visit Wenda's Web Site: www.wendaz.com

Metropoiltan Gospel Big Band is a Big Band with a sound determined to reach God's ears and others with the good news of the gospel! The Metropolitan Gospel Big Band  has given musical praise a new dimension. The  Band leader and conductor is Duke Guillaume.

  With the love of Gospel music and Jazz, Duke has put together a band of elite musicians who have the will and desire to give praise to God through the use of Big Band Jazz music that is dedicated to the glory of God...

  The Big Band has appeared at a number of venues including BB Kings in NYC, Strand Theater in Boston, Jazz at Lincoln Center's Dizzy's Club CocaCola in NYC, and Swing 46 in NYC just to name a few. The MGBB have been playing at a number of local churches as well. Using their combined gifts, talents, and instruments they are continually blessed as they "swing unto the lord a new song"!

A CD is in the process of being recorded and there are a couple of finished tracks you can listen to. (David Arivett - CJA Network founder recently used a very hip Latin jazz arrangement of "Lord I Lift Your Name On High" for a recent Big Band outing that the Metro Gospel Big Band has already recorded!)

For more info/hear samples visit here!

Here is a link to their Myspace web site

Ryan Cullen is President and Editor at RYCUN Music Company. His music is is published through Really Good Music, LLC. and PDFJazzMusic.com in addition to RYCUN Music Company and has been sold and performed worldwide.

He holds a B.M. degree in Jazz Studies from Loyola University of New Orleans and a M.M. degree in Studio/Jazz Composition from the University of Miami. His teachers have included Michael Pellera, Gary Lindsay, Ron Miller, Dr. Raul Murciano, John Mahoney, Dr. Robert Gower, Dr. Paul Wilson, Tony Dagradi, and John Ellis.

Ryan currently resides in Southeast Louisiana and was recently appointed Director at the Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts (LAAPA). In addition to his administrative duties, he writes for and directs the school's ensembles, teaches theory/composition, piano and saxophone.

"Ryan has some absolutely killer funk/jazz charts featuring horn lines that will knock you out! I highly recommend that you check out his composition/arrangements for Jazz Band!  - David Arivett (CJA Network Founder)

To hear some samples of his compositions/arrangements visit here!

To check out all of Ryan's arrangements visit here!

David Soto Growing up the son of a musician father, David began his musical journey at a very young age. At 2 years old, he was already keeping the beat and playing for any audience that was willing to listen. Forward 9 years later, at 11, he records his first  demo of original songs. Doors continue to open for young David. He landed an opportunity to play drums for a TV commercial jingle and played with different bands he formed through school. He also picked up the bass and began switching between both.

In June of 2003 when David was only 16 years old, he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a form of cancer that slowed him down but didn't stop him from doing what he loved. After 3 years of Chemotherapy, David was victorious over his cancer battle and was declared cancer free. David continued where he left off and has gone on to play various venues, among them: UCLA, Cal State LA, USC, The Whisky A go-go, El Rey Theatre, BB Kings Blues Club, Universal City Walk, The Mayan Theatre, Vanguard University, The Knitting Factory, and the Larchmont. He also learned to play various instruments like the Jarana, requinto jarocho, vihuela, and the piano.

At only 22 years old, David continues sailing uncharted territory as he fuses his blend of funk, R&B, rock and Latin fusion to create some of the most explosive blend of music invading your ears. Now attending the Musicians Institute and worshipping at Calvary Chapel Montebello, his goal remains to reach out to everyone, especially the sick and hurting, with a powerful message of healing and restoration. David shares, "I defeated cancer, it didn't defeat me, thanks to the power and grace of God!"

For more info/hear samples visit here!

Gerry Johnston Gerry Johnston is a jazz guitarist well versed in jazz standards and traditional classic guitar works. From 1970 - 1972 he attended Berklee College of Music. His guitar teachers included Tom Sczymczak, Lenny Perry, Mick Goodrick and William Leavitt. He also attended the New England Conservatory Music and majored in classical guitar performance receiving a Bachelor of Music degree from the New England Conservatory Of Music in 1975. Gerry received private guitar lessons from Robert Paul Sullivan and attended a master class with Jose Rey de al Torre,Cuban/American concert artist. Also while attending college he was elected to Pi Kappa Lambda and the National Music Honor Society.

Gerry has taught music at Bradford College, Brooks School, The Phillips Academy, and the Pingree School. He has also taught an “Introduction to Music” and “Music Theory and Improvisation” through the Adult Education Program at Northern Essex Community College. He continues to both teach and promote jazz education.

One of Gerry’s specialties is performing as a solo acoustic jazz guitarist. Fingerstyle jazz guitar is a style of guitar picking that Gerry excels at. His instrument of choice for solo jazz performance is the nylon string classical guitar. Gerry is also right at home with an electric guitar when performing with jazz bands, swing bands and other jazz ensembles.

The “American Songbook“ comprises a very large portion of Gerry’s solo guitar repertoire. Composers such as Duke Ellington, George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Ann Ronnell, and many others provide him with an outstanding foundation of classic jazz standards to choose from for his concerts.

"Gerry is a top-notch musician both versatile and tasteful in his playing. Furthermore, he is the utmost professional. I highly recommend Gerry for your concert, wedding, party or special occasion" - Paul Hollman composer/producer.

For more info/hear samples visit here!

Visit Gary's Web Site: www.gerryjohnston.com

 

  Joe Baione  is a professional jazz vibraphonist, educator, clinician and producer.  When not touring with his sextet, Baione spends his time as President of Delaware Charitable Music, Inc. producing Jazz, Blues & BBQ in the Park, a festival he co-founded with the mission of bringing live Jazz and Blues music to the young people of his community.  For Baione, that passion for young musicians begins in the classroom where he is known for taking struggling beginner band programs to a size and ability never before achieved.  By day, Baione is an energetic and highly creative band teacher and by night he continues that high energy, passion and creativity in his jazz performances.

In the past two years Baione has opened for Michael Bolton, Monty Alexander, and Joey DeFrancesco.  In April he will open for the legendary Dave Brubeck. And Baione's performance resume continues to grow.  Other performance venues include: The Jazz Bakery, Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola in NYC's Lincoln Center, The Kimmel Center and Zanzibar Blue in Philadelphia, and Sydney's Blues and Jazz Restaurant.  Baione has won several awards including "Teacher of the Year" in 2003, "Emerging Jazz Artist" in 2005 by Philadelphia Weekly and "Rising Star of Tomorrow" by Jazz at Lincoln Center. He has a new CD Release "Oh Yeah" and you can hear audio clips here. For more on Joe Baione visit here!
Ed Maina  is a woodwind soloist, clinician, and educator. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Studio Music and Jazz Studies and a Master of Music Degree in Jazz Pedagogy from the University of Miami. He teaches Band in schools, and is currently the Orchestra Director at Flanagan High School.  In 1992 he earned the coveted "Louis Armstrong Fellowship Award", awarded by the International Association of Jazz Educators for excellence in Jazz Education. To date, his bands have earned twenty-three Florida Bandmasters Association "Superior" Awards.

When not fulfilling his duties as an educator, Mr. Maina  performs concerts and conducts clinics. Some of his performing and recording credits include Linda Eder, Natalie Cole, Frank Sinatra, Paul Anka, Jon Secada, Chaka Khan, Pebo Bryson, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Charytin (Univision), Ednita Rosario, The Nelson Riddle Orchestra, Bob James, Chubby and Duffy Jackson, Jaco Pastorius, Louie Bellson, Oscar Peterson, Mel Torme and The Maynard Ferguson Orchestra. You can hear his excellent woodwind skills on the now classic Causeway Jazz Hymns CD's with CJA Network member Todd Billinglsey here. Ed also has an upcoming CD/album..."In the Company of Brothers" due out in 2009. For more on Ed Maina visit here!

Chuck Hickman/Jazz Collective   Formed in 2003 The Jazz Collective performs an array of Jazz, Funk and Soul with a fun and relaxed spirit that conveys a love for life and music. The Jazz Collective always seeks to share that same joy and love with their audience. The Jazz Collective band members are: Chuck Hickman- Saxophone. (Chuck is also the Worship Pastor for Soteria Church in Everett, WA.)  Ed Weber – Keyboards, Kathleen Hickman – Vocals,  Brad Boal – Drums,  Marc Miller- Bass, Art Bromage – Guitar, Mike McGee- Guitar.

 The Jazz Collective have been volunteering their time with area schools doing clinics and concerts for the past 5 years. They have now branched out under the banner of the Soteria Church to more fully celebrate their musical gifts and share with the entire city their music through the Everett Music Institute.  They now offer free and reduced rate classes and private lessons to the underprivileged in their community with special focus on Hawthorne Elementary School, North Middle School and Everett High School, all in the Everett School District.  The Jazz Collective have a CD you can hear audio clips here! They are presently in the studio working on a new CD...stay tuned.
Paulette Dozier  is a versatile Jazz Singer with as well as an accomplished Stage Actress in musical theater. She also has a Master's Degree in Interdisciplinary Arts from Nova Southeastern University, and a Bachelor's in English from Florida International University. While attending Brooklyn College, (where she initiated her studies in Theater) she polished her Broadway skills by studying dance, acting, and vocal performance with various private coaches and teachers such as notable Broadway choreographer Frank Hachett.

Paulette uses all her energy to break new ground as a jazz vocalist; This jazz stylist and scat singer is quite versatile stylistically speaking whether contracted for a role in a theater musical or simply relaxing in a laid back jam session with a musician like guitarist Paco de Lucia.  Besides performances in the US, she has toured in Venezuela and Italy. She has sung on many recording projects, including LPs with Venezuelan composers Vytas Brenner and Jorge Aguilar, whose modern folkloric style and contemporary jazz/rock sound, respectively, were strongly influenced by Paulette’s singing style. She has two of her own CD’s “With You”  and “Over & Over Again” (and you can hear audio clips for both by following the links). More info on Paulette here!
David Von Kampen is an undergraduate composition major at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.   He has written and arranged for the Concordia University A Capella Choir, PianoFOURte, Dasklavierlufttrio, and the University of Nebraska Varsity Men's Chorus, Jazz Ensemble I, Vocal Jazz Ensemble, University Saxophone Choir, and various student jazz combos.

In 2003 and 2006, David was the winner of the Vancouver Chamber Choir Young Composers Competition, in the Secondary and College divisions, respectively.  He was commissioned by the Vancouver Chamber Choir later in 2006.  David has seven choral pieces/arrangements published with Concordia Publishing House, and a big band chart published with the RYCUN Music Company. For more info on this outstanding composer including audio clips visit here!

 

 

Tom Hemby  is a Guitarist, Producer, Songwriter, and Programmer. Tom has lived and worked in Nashville as an active musician for the past 29 years. Starting out in Nashville in 1978 he soon became an active touring musician, backing artists such as “The Imperials” and Amy Grant. His touring career has evolved into a recording career as a studio guitarist/ producer/ songwriter.

Tom’s recording credits include artists: Michael English, Kenny Loggins, former Doobie Brother  Michael McDonald, Amy Grant, Donna Summer, Vince Gill, Peter Cetera, Barry Manilow, Faith Hill, Brian McKinight, Steve Winwood, Glenn Shorrock (Little River Band), Michael W. Smith, BeBe & CeCe Winans, and many, many more. Tom’s songwriting credits include songs recorded by artists: Amy Grant, Faith Hill, Dionne Warwick, Hank Williams Jr., Bruce Carroll, BeBe & CeCe Winans, The Gaither Vocal band, Michael English, and others.

Tom’s solo instrumental CD “Chasing The Wind” is available for purchase! You can hear audio clips here. Tom one a Dove Award for this project in 2004 which won “Instrumental Album Of The Year”!

Review - "Chasing The Wind"
An amazing amalgam of jazz-flavored R&B layered over elements of Americana and shot with tribal beats and world music influences.  . . . Tom Hemby s deft acoustic guitar pierces straight to the soul.- Mike Parker, www.BuddyHollywood.com

Tom's next instrumental project" In The Moment" which is nearing completion, is a electric guitar outing of great jazz fusion and will feature a "who's who" list of famous guest artists and musicians! You can preview audio clips of this new recording project here!

For even more on Tom Hemby visit here!

Phil Upchurch  has been a prominent figure in the blues, soul, R&B and jazz circles for more than 50 years. In addition to his work with the legendary Jimmy Smith, Upchurch has performed and recorded with some of the music industry’s biggest names. His talents have teamed him with musical legends such as Quincy Jones, Bob Dylan, Julio Iglesias, Ray Charles, Ramsey Lewis, Carmen McRae, George Benson, Donny Hathaway, Chaka Khan, Michael Jackson, Carmen McRae, Marlena Shaw, Eddie Harris, Brother Jack McDuff, Joe Williams, Stan Getz, Cannonball Adderley, Herbie Hancock, Grover Washington, Jr. and Wynton Kelly, among many others.

A prolific guitarist whose distinctively funky, blues-steeped jazz style has graced well over a thousand recordings across the popular music spectrum, the legendary Phil Upchurch has also recorded 27 albums of his own leadership, as well as movie soundtracks. Jazz enthusiasts love and respect Phil Upchurch for his singular approach to composition. Phil is unusually versatile, moving from classical, jazz, funk or contemporary  just as easy as walking from one room to another.

In 2006, Phil Upchurch married actress/songstress Sonya Maddox and, for the first time in his career, recognized his bride as his writing partner. “The timbre of her voice and her style of language rings perfectly with my intricate combination of chords,” he states. “Sonya completes me."

Phil & Sonya share a Christian Music Marriage Ministry, assisting gifted young musicians in realizing their objective of studying music at a college of their choice through the Jimmy Smith Foundation, which Phil founded, partnered with The Jackie Robinson Foundation. Through their WONDERVISION company they are also producing a book of Phil’s photography, a book and documentary on his life, and a solo CD for Phil.

You can hear some of Phil Upchurch's audio clips here.

Sonya Maddox And Phil Upchurch CD

Phil and Sonya team up on this recording!

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/philsonya2  

 

Much more info on Phil here!

Richy Stano & Mindwalk  In his career guitarist/composer Richy Stano has performed with Bo Diddley, Jimi Tunnel, Dan Toler, Producer/Songwriter Stan Lynch, Chieli Minucci, Bob Welch, Andy Prieboy, All My Children's Alan Dysert, Sister Hazel's Andrew Copeland, Joe Porcaro, and Steve Bailey. As a composer, Stano's film & TV soundtrack credits and commercial jingle credits include: "Problem Child II," "Lobster Man from Mars," "Mr. Belvedere," "On the Television," AT&T, ESPN, CNN, Nickelodeon, Special Olympics, FOX-TV, ABC-TV, CBS-Sports, and many many others.

Richy also served as Staff Instructor at Hollywood's Guitar Institute of Technology (GIT) and the Curriculum Coordinator for the Musicians Institute (MI). While in the Los Angeles area Stano worked with Chieli Minucci & Special EFX, Boney James, Michael Lington and many other notable musicians.

Richy's group "Mindwalk" are a five piece group representing a "talent pool of diversity" rarely seen in the industry. From nationally recognized albums, movie scores, jingles, award winning big band compositions to recording engineering and sound design, Mindwalk and it's members deliver musicianship at the highest levels and back it up with instrumental virtuosity. Mindwalk's original music is artfully sprinkled with Fusion, Bebop, Funk, Latin, Rock, and Smooth Jazz.

Mindwalk's live performances include opening concerts for such prominent Artists as Spyro Gyra, The Yellowjackets, Herbie Hancock & the Headhunters, Bill Frisell, Jon Secada, Acoustic Alchemy, The Rippingtons, Richard Elliott, Joan Osbourne, BB King, Steve Morse Band, Less Than Jake, Maceo Parker, Eric Darius, Larry Coryell, Pieces Of A Dream, Greg Karukas, Daryle Singeltary, Les Dudek, Pat Travers, Bela Fleck & the Flecktones and many others.

"The five piece Mindwalk amalgam of experienced musicians play an eclectic, unclassifiable style of music best described by the band’s name - "Mindwalk." It’s a journey through the uninhibited vistas of the mind’s expanded musical consciousness, like a trip into the eye of a star, emerging on the other side... In this realm of the free spirited mind walkers, time and space are distorted by music with no boundaries or limited intervals" - Rick Grant, Editor, First Coast Entertainer Magazine

You can hear audio clips here!

www.myspace.com/richystanomindwalk

Michael Parlett  was born in Bexleyheath, Kent, England. Michael is a soulful and expressive musician and Producer with over 25 years experience in the music industry. Michael plays Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Baritone Saxes, Flute, Piccolo and a collection of Indian Flutes as well as the WX7 Yamaha wind synthesizer.

Michael has performed and recorded with many top artists around the world including Jeff Lorber, Peabo Bryson, Najee, Eric Marienthal, Marion Meadows, Darlene Zschech, Ron Kenoly, Adlan Cruz, Andre and Sandra Crouch, and just too many others to list here!

Michael shares that "... I have played with some amazing musicians in Church where I received most of my training playing alongside other more established singers and musicians at concerts and functions."
Michael has released his solo recording project "Waiting On You". Joining with Michael on this recording is keyboardist Luke "Duke" Smith, Joy Rose, (lead singer of the band Incognito and currently working with Sting) and other outstanding musicians. Serving up a feast of energetic, funky, and soulful sax, Michael's CD covers unique arrangements of well known up-tempo worship classics "Lord I Lift Your Name On High", "Ancient Of Days", slower tempo moving renditions of the worship songs "As The Deer", "Welcome Into This Place", as well as originals penned by Michael and others from the group. Hear audio clips here!

Michael continues to work as a session musician and producer working from his own studio "Talented Productions" as well as host his own radio show on Solar Radio. He has also been playing with Jeff Lorber and there is a YouTube video with Michael and Jeff playing 'live' on Michael's myspace website.
Barbara Dennerlein   The list of venues where Barbara has wowed audiences is as varied as it is long: the "Blue Note" and the "Sweet Basil" in New York, "Ronnie Scott's Club" and the "Jazz Café" in London and the "Blue Note" in Tokyo; Philadelphia, Berkley, San Jose, San Diego; the Montreal, Vancouver, Toronto, Edmonton, and Victoria jazz festivals, as well as appearances all over Europe.

Her CD productions feature hand-picked line-ups of prominent musicians versed in different styles; first rate musicians like Ray Anderson, Antonio Hart, Mitch Watkins, Randy Brecker, Jeff "Tain" Watts, David Murray, Howard Johnson, Frank Lacy, David Sanchez, Roy Hargrove, Bob Berg and Dennis Chambers.

Swing, bebop, blues, soul, latin and funk - for Barbara there are no rigid boundaries, only fluid transitions. Audiences are captivated by her talent, her absolute mastery of the instrument, her taste, and not least, her warm personality.

"Barbara is the only jazz organist I know that can play jazz on a pipe organ in church and really pull it off! You simply have to hear it to believe it! And she really "cooks" on the Hammond B-3 as well..."  - David Arivett (CJA Network)

Barbara is booked at churches all across the US this summer playing jazz in church and other jazz concerts!

Check out Barbara's You Tube Video, JS Bach Improv Toccata & Fugue: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvgsU-RuKlo

"Spiritual Movement 2" is Barbara Dennerlein's second solo CD featuring jazz on a church organ. It is her indisputably unique artistry to make the powerful pipes, voluminous manuals, and weighty pedals more tractable for the turbulent syncopations of jazz...Hear audio clips here!

To hear more of Barbara's recordings with a band visit her web site:

www.barbaradennerlein.com

Sam Levine   Nashville studio musicians know Sam Levine as one of the busiest woodwind players in town. In one day he might play saxophone for a country artist, flute or penny whistle for a gospel artist and clarinet in a traditional jazz band. His playing has given color and expression to a wide variety of artists' tracks, including Amy Grant, the Neville Brothers, Vince Gill and Michael McDonald. He is known for his reliable ensemble skills and his melodic, expressive solos.

Sam is the leader of several different bands in the greater Nashville area and has served as music contractor for performers as diverse as Henry Mancini, Bill Gaither and Danny Gans. Bands include CITY LIGHTS, PHATJAZ, and BOURBON ST.

Sam has more than 10 artist CD's in the smooth jazz and contemporary Christian genres. He has been nominated three times for a Dove Award and played on at least two Grammy Award winning recordings. He is currently an artist with Village Square Music.

While music and the music business dominate Sam's schedule, his family remains the foundation of his life. He is married to Lee, Principal Clarinet of the Nashville Symphony, and they have two teenage children. They are members of Westminster Presbyterian in Nashville, a relationship that Sam says is a result of his life-long spiritual development that began with his parents unique blend of Jewish and Christian traditions.

Hear audio clips from "Smooth Praise" here!   www.samlevinemusic.com

Anne Walsh Was born into a musical family (her father Frank was a baritone/tenor who sang the lead in many productions for local light opera companies). Early on, Anne’s parents knew they had a singer on their hands. Anne humorously recalls “At age seven, I wanted to be Shirley Jones”.

After high school, Anne went on to attend Anna Maria College where she studied voice and music therapy. She also attended Orange Coast College, where she soon was invited to sing with the OCC Big Band.

Anne furthered her education pursuing a Master’s degree in music at Cal State Long Beach. There, she received voice training in the ‘bel canto’ art of singing with vocal teacher Marvelee Cariaga and sang and studied opera. Being well versed in operatic singing as well as jazz gives Anne a unique background and perspective to her vocals.

What really opened up new vistas for Anne was an audition at Carmello’s in Southern California. There she landed the gig and this was her introduction to Brazilian Jazz and the world of Jobim, Dori Caymmi, Basia, and Flora Purim. “The experience of singing Brazilian music gave my voice a freedom I had never known before.”

After receiving her master’s degree, Anne soon started singing with a local jazz quintet, where she met her future husband pianist Tom Zink. Presently, she sings at the Carpenter Center in Long Beach, CA and other various clubs in the Southern California area, including Spaghettini’s.

Recently Anne collaborated with her husband Tom Zink on a new recording project. It is a Brazilian jazz release “Pretty World”, and it includes many outstanding musicians:

Vocals: Anne Walsh
Piano/Keys/Arrangements: Tom Zink
Bass: Brian Bromberg, Carlitos Del Puerto, Jerry Watts
Drums: Chris Wabich
Percussion: Tiki Pasallis, Rogerio Jardim, Joe DeRenzo:
Sax: Gary Meek:
Guitar: Oscar Castro Neves, Gannin Arnold

"With her debut jazz CD ‘Pretty World’ Anne Walsh has sublimely captured the concept of this planet of ours as a beautiful place to be. Her voice is as clear as a bell and as she joyously interprets a range of songs that span the decades the entire collection is blessed with a luscious string section and picture perfect production from husband Thomas Zink. In fact Walsh navigates this wonderful amalgam of buoyant Brazilian jazz grooves and poignant heart tugging ballads with total aplomb..."  -  Denis Pool, Smooth Jazz Therapy

To hear audio clips visit here!

For more information on Anne Walsh visit:

www.annewalsh.com

Thomas Zink is a pianist, composer, producer, and engineer who has written/produced soundtracks for “Doug”, “101 Dalmatians” television cartoon series, commercials, and feature TV movie “Treasure Of Dos Santos” (a complete orchestral score). Tom owns and operates the Ming Dynasty Studio where he has also recorded many outstanding artists including Michael McDonald, Richard Elliot, Brian Bromberg, Dave Koz, Peter Nero, Fernando Ortega, Ronnie Laws and many others.

 Tom has also recorded several hundred projects for the Yamaha Disclavier, and Yamaha used his studio as its main facility for recording audio disks for their PianoSoft Plus Audio Disclavier series including projects with Joey DeFrancesco, Christopher Cross, Michael McDonald, John Novello, Carol Welsman, and Judy Roberts.

Tom is also a member of the jazz trio the "3&Band" an acoustic jazz trio in the style of ECM featuring piano, guitar, drums and bass with additional percussion and orchestral elements. The other two members of the band include notable outstanding drummer Chris Wabich and guitar whiz Gannin Arnold.

"Beautiful, mellow, and warm, this CD has a spiritual energy that will be sure to resonate and touch you deep within! The musicianship and writing are absolutely impeccable" - David Arivett (CJA Network)

To hear the 3&Band new release "American Folk Song" visit here! 

www.tomzink.com

Kemba Cofield is an internationally known jazz vocalist, recording artist, writer, and composer. She has entertained diverse audiences nationwide including performances at some of the finest venues such as the 2008 Atlanta Jazz Festival, the National Black Arts Festival, Lincoln Center Philadelphia Museum, Atlanta’s High Museum and New York’s Historic Lenox Lounge. Kemba has shared the stage with the Zapp Band, Midnight Star, Bernard Linnette, Don Braden, The Aaron Goldberg Trio, Takana Miyamoto, Freddie Cole, Rene Marie, and other jazz greats.

Kemba shares that "I don't just consider myself a vocalist but a storyteller. If I'm talking about love, I convey that emotion to the audience."

In 2003, Kemba met trombonist Wycliffe Gordon who invited her to sing with his ensemble as well as to appear on his album, "In The Cross". Her relationships with Linnette and Gordon have exposed her to new audiences, taught her the true meaning of hard work, and provided her with an entrée to the jazz scene.

On her CD release "Shades of Kemba" she sings traditional straight ahead standards while blending in and retaining her gospel roots. The "New Orleans" jazz sound also shines through as Wycliffe Gordon leads an ensemble in "When The Saints Go Marching In" and the  "I Want Jesus to Walk With Me." A stellar group of jazz musicians contributed their musical expertise to the recording including Wycliffe Gordon, Victor Goines, Marcus Printup, Reginald Veal, Doron Johnson and Alvin Atkinson.

“Kemba Cofield has been on the jazz scene for years and delights her audience with a masterful blend of straight ahead jazz with the influence of her gospel roots.” –eJazzNews.comeJazzNews.com

To hear audio clips visit here!

More information on Kemba Cofield here!

Jetro Da Silva was born in Meier, Rio de Janeiro, in February 28th, 1967. DaSilva began his musical training at 12 years old. With only one month of piano lessons, Jetro was already playing for his church congregation (Sao Joao de Meriti Baptist Church). When Jetro turned 14, he started attending   Escola Nacional de Musica, the most respected classical school in Rio de Janeiro. Jetro auditioned and was awarded a full scholarship.

At only 16, Jetro was the sole supporter of his family, playing both with world-renowned musicians and for his Pentecostal church, Nova Vida da Tijuca in Rio da Janeiro. After touring with several Brazilian artists Jetro moved to Boston to extend his music education at Berklee College of Music, majoring in Music Production and Engineering.

Because of his talent and experience in Brazil as a producer, performer, arranger and songwriter, it didn't take Jetro very long for the music community in Boston and LA to embrace him. Jetro now holds a position of Professor at the ensemble department at the prestigious BERKLEE COLLEGE OF MUSIC in Boston, Ma. Jetro lives in East Greenwich, RI with his wife Rhonda da Silva.

Jetro’s experience, training as keyboardist/producer/arranger has increased his opportunity to work with people such as: Whitney Houston, Jamie Fox, Patti Labelle, Pastor Andrae Crouch, Earth Wind and Fire, Chaka Khan, The Pointer Sisters, Gladys Knight, Brandy, Sheila E., Namie Amuro, Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, Kem, Celine Dion, Patti Austin, Emilio Santiago, Monica, Mary and Mary and many others.

On Jetro's CD release "Live" the dominant sound is smooth jazz mixed with Brazilian, R&B, funk, and a touch of classical. The compositions range from well chosen covers, Miles Davis' "All Blues", Milton Nascimento's "Nothing Will Be As It Was", Caetano Veloso's "Voce E Minha", and a classical piece, "Conciertode Aranjuarez", by Rodrigo, to Da Silva originals.

To hear audio clips visit here!

More info on Jetro here: www.jetrodasilva.com

 Michael Prigodich is a jazz pianist, composer and arranger.  Other instruments Mike can play include clarinet, trumpet, electric bass, classical guitar, and drums/percussion.  He began composing and learning to play jazz and rock on the piano after hearing Chuck Mangione, Dave Grusin, and Van Halen on the radio while in his early teens!  

Mike studied jazz in the late 1980's and early 1990's at Wheaton College in the Chicago, IL area with Howard Whitaker and Larry Panella (who later toured the world with the Phil Collins Big Band) Mike also took classes at the Wheaton Conservatory of Music, studying music theory, music history, and sight-singing, as well as piano lessons with John Zimmerman, a jazz combo class with Audrey Morrison, and a music technology class with Tony Payne. He also developed his musical versatility by playing in a jazz ensemble, a black gospel choir, composing original material and transcribing and arranging material by other artists including Kansas and Toto covers.  He also performed rock, pop, country, gospel, and jazz with many great musicians while continuing to hone his transcribing and arranging skills.  

After college, Mike stayed in the Chicago, IL area and played keyboards for several years during the mid-1990's with the Michael Newmark Orchestra, and continued his jazz piano studies with Bradley Williams (Woody Herman), Dennis Plies and Clay Giberson.

Within recent years, after moving to the Portland Oregon area he began playing electric bass at West Hills Covenant Church, along with occasional piano and keyboards.  Mike has also been hired to transcribe music for others to perform, including transcribing the hit song "Carry On Wayward Son" for the band at Willow Creek Community Church in Chicago,Illinois for a guest appearance by guitarist Kerry Livgren from the Classical Rock group Kansas.

Mike has many interesting jazz, funk, and progressive rock arrangements of church music, as well as a growing catalog of original jazz and rock compositions.  He has recently formed a jazz quartet "Someday Syndrome" and is now playing jazz gigs with the group with plans for a new CD release soon.

To hear audio clips visit:   www.mikeprigodich.com

http://www.myspace.com/mikeprigodich

Smooth Pizzazz Radio!  No "Snooze Jazz" Allowed!!!

Smooth Pizzazz...Jazz with Pizzazz! Just a few clicks away is an internet radio station containing nearly 500 tracks from top jazz artists. Broadcasting all over the world 24/7 Smooth Pizzazz has the most complete collection of jazzed up hymns, sacred jazz, and spirituals you will find anywhere!

To help underwrite the cost of broadcasting on the internet there is a monthly fee of $7.95 to be a preferred listening member of Live 365. So for about the price of buying lunch you can be listening to the greatest collection of inspirational, sacred jazz, spirtuals, and other great jazz music! There is a free 5 day trial so what are you waiting for?  More info here!

All the charts and resources you need to play more inspirational jazz in church, concerts, and studio! Big Band, and various ensemble arrangements by Ralph Carmicheal, Chris McDonald, Chuck Marohnic, John Carlson, David Arivett, Jeff Anderson, Louie Bellson, Denver & the Mile High Orchestra, and many others can be found on the Christian Jazz Charts page located here!

All the Jazz Educational resources you need to take your music to the next level are just a click away!  

Here is a great new resource for keyboardists!

Pat Coil - CJA Network member Pat Coil has a new keyboard instruction book - "The Aspiring Keyboardist".

"Pat Coil is by far one of the most gifted musicians I have
ever had the privilege of working with ...his extensive knowledge and seemingly natural sense of harmony and chord voicings are amazing. The virtual universe of instructional materials for musicians has just expanded in a very meaningful way with the release of this great work by Pat Coil." - Michael McDonald
 

More info here!
Hundreds of great Jazz ED resources! www.songsofdavid.com/jazzedpage

 

Many informative articles on jazz  on our

Jazz Articles Page

Celebrate Today And Be Jazzed!!!

Celebrate Today And Be Jazzed!!!

E-Mail Us Here 
Cjanetwork@songsofdavid.com