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Fall Semester 2018 August 24th, August 25th (Florida HS All-State Preparation Clinic), September 28th, October 19th, November 16th Spring Semester 2019 January 25th, February 22nd, March 8th, March 22nd - 23rd (UCF Jazz Festival), April 5th University of Central Florida Orlando, FL 32816 407-823-2869 Info: University of Central Florida Jazz website  The Gulf Coast Big Band The 2018-2019 season will be my seventh as the Musical Director and Conductor for the Gulf Coast Big Band. The Gulf Coast Big Band is a community group and a non-profit organization that not only plays jazz music and provides free monthly concerts to the music fans of Naples and Collier County, but for over the last twenty years has raised and awarded over $80,000.00 in youth music scholarships to benefit student musicians of Collier County. We will have six swinging Sunday afternoon concerts, each held at 2:00 p.m. in Cambier Park which is located in beautiful downtown Naples, Florida. November 4, 2018 December 9, 2018 January 13, 2019 February 17, 2019 March 17, 2019 April 7, 2019 We will be playing the music of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Woody Herman, Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich, Dizzy Gillespie, Thad Jones/Mel Lewis, Tadd Dameron and all of the great bands. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Plays Naples "Stay In May" Festival Plays the Music of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn Collier County Library South Regional Branch April 26, 2019 (Friday) Join Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto as they celebrate the genius and music of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. Duke Ellington is one of the most towering figures in the history of jazz, writing and composing his own sophisticated, swinging music and leading his own orchestra for over fifty years. The music Ellington and Strayhorn composed is an integral part of the Great American Songbook and forms the backbone of jazz repertoire. The program will include such favorites as Take The A Train, Satin Doll, In A Mellowtone, Caravan, Do Nothing 'til You Hear From Me, Perdido, Mood Indigo, Just Squeeze Me, In A Sentimental Mood, The Happy-Go Lucky Local and Cottontail. 4.26.19 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Plays the Music of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Richard Drexler (piano) Brandon Robertson (bass) Tony Vigilante (drums) 6:00 p.m. Collier County Library South Regional Branch 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy Naples, FL 34113 888-613-8488 The Dan Miller - Jeff Rupert Quintet Plays the North Naples Music Festival History of Jazz Concert from Louis Armstrong to John Coltrane North Naples United Methodist Church March 30, 2019 (Saturday) Join trumpeter Dan Miller and saxophonist Jeff Rupert as they celebrate the exciting and swinging history of jazz music from New Orleans to New York. Dan Miller built his reputation touring and recording with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman and Tom Jones. Jeff Rupert has been the Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Central Florida in Orlando for over 20 years and has toured and recorded with Maynard Ferguson, Mel Torme and Benny Carter. Dan and Jeff have known each other for over 25 years first meeting in NYC and more recently as colleagues at UCF where Dan has been an Artist-in-Residence since 2014. You are invited on a musical journey that spans over fifty years of jazz music. We begin in the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans with the genius who created it all, Louis Armstrong. From there we will hear the music of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Lester Young, Coleman Hawkins, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis and John Coltrane. A free-wheeling excursion from traditional New Orleans jazz to swing to bebop and beyond! For this concert, Dan and Jeff bring together a tremendous group of musicians for an afternoon of hard swinging, acoustic jazz music including pianist Jerry Stawski, bassist Don Mopsick and drummer Tony Vigilante 3.30.19 The Dan Miller - Jeff Rupert Quintet History of Jazz Concert from Louis Armstrong to John Coltrane Dan Miller (trumpet) Jeff Rupert (tenor saxophone) Jerry Stawski (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Tony Vigilante (drums) Two Shows: 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. North Naples United Methodist Church 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road Naples, FL 34109-7206 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Plays the Music of Horace Silver The Art League of Bonita Springs March 2, 2019 (Saturday) Join Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto as they celebrate the legacy and music of pianist Horace Silver. Horace Silver was one of the most important composers and band-leaders in the history of jazz music. Leading his own groups for 50 years, he contributed some of the most beloved compositions in all of jazz and his groups included some of the greatest figures in jazz music including Kenny Dorham, Hank Mobley, Blue Mitchell, Junior Cook, Woody Shaw and Joe Henderson. Horace brought together the modern sounds of Charlie Parker's Bebop and fused it with the music of the gospel church creating his own brand of funky, blues-infused, soulful jazz music. The program will feature some of Silver's greatest tunes including: Song For My Father, Strollin', Peace, Nica's Dream, The Preacher, Juicy Lucy, Barbara, Nutville, Split Kick, Filthy McNasty and Senor Blues. Trumpeter Dan Miller built his reputation touring and recording with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. He brings together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging acoustic jazz music including tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto (Saturday Night Live Band 1975-2005 & Frank Sinatra), Miami pianist Brian Murphy (Tito Puente & Ira Sullivan), Miami bassist Chuck Bergeron (Buddy Rich) and the legendary drummer Marty Morell (Bill Evans Trio 1968 - 1974). 3.02.19 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Plays the Music of Horace Silver The Art League of Bonita Springs Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Brian Murphy (piano) Chuck Bergeron (bass) Marty Morell (drums) Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs Concert 7:30 p.m. MOE Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE The corner of Bonita Beach Road and Vermont Street Bonita Springs, FL 34135 239-495-8989 Tickets: $29 The Lew Del Gatto Quintet featuring Dan Miller South Florida State College Performing Arts Jazz Series March 1, 2019 (Friday) Lew Del Gatto brings a wonderful group to the Alan Jay Wildstein Center for the Performing Arts in Avon Park, FL for the South Florida State College Performing Arts Jazz Series. This is a stunningly beautiful theater that will be filled with the swing stylings of Lew Del Gatto, Dan Miller, Richard Drexler, Don Mopsick and Patricia Dean. The evening will also feature the swinging vocal stylings of the very talented Patricia Dean who brings the influence of Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald and Nancy Wilson to every one of her performances. 3.01.19 The Lew Del Gatto Quintet with Dan Miller South Florida State College Performing Arts Jazz Series Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Richard Drexler (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Patricia Dean (drums and vocals) South Florida State College Highlands Campus Alan Jay Wildstein Center for the Performing Arts Concert: 7:00 p.m. 600 W. College Drive Avon Park, FL 33825 863-784-7178 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Plays The Music of Irving Berlin Wang Opera Center for CAPA February 15, 2019 (Friday) Join trumpeter Dan Miller and saxophonist Lew Del Gatto as they celebrate the genius and music of Irving Berlin. The music that Berlin composed for the Broadway Stage and the Hollywood Screen became an integral part of the Great American Songbook, loved by musicians, singers and audiences alike. He wrote over 1,500 tunes including God Bless America and White Christmas. Jerome Kern said, "Irving Berlin has no place in American music-he is American music." The program will include such favorites as How Deep Is The Ocean, Let's Face The Music and Dance, Alexander's Ragtime Band, Always, Blue Skies, Coquette, Falling In Love Is Wonderful, If I Had You, Change Partners, Cheek To Cheek and Anything You Can Do (I Can Do Better). 2.15.19 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Plays The Music of Irving Berlin Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Richard Drexler (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Tony Vigilante (drums) 7:30 p.m. The Wang Opera Center 2408 Linwood Ave Naples, FL 34112 239-775-2800 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quartet Jazz at Two Series The Jazz Club of Sarasota January 4, 2019 (Friday) The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quartet has been playing hard swinging, straight ahead jazz music Thursday nights at The Barrel Room in Downtown Fort Myers since June 2016. The piano-less group features Brandon Robertson on bass and Tony Vigilante on drums and they play standards, bebop, ballads and blues including the music of Jerome Kern, George Gershwin, Horace Silver, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and Thelonious Monk. We look forward to returning to Sarasota and playing for the members of the Jazz Club of Sarasota. 1.04.19 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quartet Jazz Club of Sarasota: Jazz at Two Series Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Brandon Robertson (bass) Paul Gavin (drums) The Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. 3975 Fruitville Road Sarasota, FL 34232 941-366-1552 The Jazz Club of Sarasota website Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Featuring the Sensational GRAMMY Nominated Jazz Vocalist CARLA COOK The Sidney Berne Davis Art Center January 18, 2019 (Friday) The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center is proud to welcome GRAMMY nominated NYC jazz vocalist Carla Cook for a special evening of music on Friday January 18, 2019. Carla Cook is daring. She is a jazz singer/songwriter who sings standards beautifully -- but she doesn't stop there. Cook is willing to put a jazz spin on songs not written by traditional jazz composers. Songs that, until you hear her sing them, you'd never imagine could be interpreted as jazz. This native Detroiter, who grew up in a musically rich and diverse environment, brings all her influences to bear within her repertoire. In her songbook you'll find elements of R&B, European classical, Motown, Blues and Gospel. Cook has always eschewed labels, and refuses to become a jazz purist or snob. That willingness to simply sing what she loves, bringing an earthy sophistication to every song, is what gives Cook her signature style. She will be joined by the Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet. NYC jazz trumpeter Dan Miller built his reputation touring and recording with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. He brings together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging acoustic jazz music including legendary NYC tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto (Saturday Night Live Band 1975-2005 & Frank Sinatra), the spectacular pianist Richard Drexler, bassist Brandon Robertson and drummer Tony Vigilante. Dan Miller says, "I have known Carla for over 25 years and we used to work with the great Frank Foster in NYC. Carla is so swinging and soulful. If you love jazz vocals you won't want to miss her performance." Carla Cook website Here's a clip of Carla singing The Way You Look Tonight: CARLA COOK: The Way You Look Tonight 1.18.19 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet featuring guest vocalist CARLA COOK The Sidney Berne Davis Art Center Carla Cook (vocals) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Dan Miller (trumpet) Richard Drexler (piano) Brandon Robertson (bass) Paul Gavin (drums) Showtime: 8:00 p.m. The Sidney Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First Street Fort Myers, FL 33901 239-333-1933 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto All Stars Swing In The Afternoon North Naples United Methodist Church January 27, 2019 (Sunday) Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto are joined by an All-Star group of friends for a special afternon of swinging jazz music on Sunday January 27th at the North Naples United Methodist Church including Violinist Glenn Basham (Concertmaster of the Naples Philharmonic), Kevin Mauldin (Principal Bassist of the Naples Philharmonic), the spectacular trombonist Herb Bruce (Nashville Brass and The Jack Daniels Silver Cornet Band), Jerry Stawski (Co-Leader of the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra) and the incredibly swinging drummer and vocalist Patricia Dean. 1.27.19 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto All-Stars Swing In The Afternoon Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Glenn Basham (violin) Herb Bruce (trombone) Jerry Stawski (piano) Kevin Mauldin (bass) Patricia Dean (drums and vocals) Showtime: 4:00 p.m. North Naples United Methodist Church 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road Naples, FL 34109-7206 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Orchestra Big Band Holiday Spectacular Plays the Music of Count Basie and Duke Ellington North Naples United Methodist Church December 3, 2018 (Monday) Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto bring together an All-Star Big Band for a special evening of swinging music on Monday December 3rd at the North Naples United Methodist Church. They will be playing a holiday-themed concert featuring the music of the Duke Ellington & Count Basie Orchestras. The second half of the concert will be a Jazz at the Philharmonic-style jam session featuring many of the world-class soloists from the Big Band. This group with feature some of the finest jazz musicians from all over Florida including musicians from Miami, Tampa, Orlando and SW Florida. 12.03.18 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Orchestra Big Band Holiday Spectacular Dan Miller (Musical Director and trumpet) Jeff Rupert (alto saxophone) Craig Christman (alto saxophone and clarinet) Lew Del Gatto and George Weremchuk (tenor saxophones) Mike Brignola (baritone saxophone) Jack Wengrosky, Mike Santiago, Ryan Chapman, Dan Miller and Steve DeLadurantey (trumpets) Herb Bruce, Dante Luciani, Jeremiah St.John, Adren Hance (trombones) Jerry Stawski (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Marty Morell (drums) Showtime: 7:00 p.m. North Naples United Methodist Church 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road Naples, FL 34109-7206 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet The Music of Blue Note Records The Charlotte County Jazz Society December 10, 2018 (Monday) Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto bring a hard swinging outfit to the Charlotte County Jazz Society to perform the music of Blue Note Records. The evening will feature the music of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers, Horace Silver, Lee Morgan, Hank Mobley, Freddie Hubbard, Benny Golson, Kenny Dorham and Joe Henderson. Blue Note Records and the musicians that recorded for the label defined the music of the 1950's and 1960's. Unrelenting swing combined with intensity at the highest level. Some of the compositions included will be Moanin', Song For My Father, Along Came Betty, Blue Bossa, Are You Real, Una Mas, Recordame, Strollin', Peace and Ceora. Dan and Lew are joined by the swinging pianist John O'Leary and the burning tandem of bassist Brandon Robertson and drummer Tony Vigilante. 12.10.18 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet The Charlotte County Jazz Society The Music of Blue Note Records Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) John O'Leary (piano) Brandon Robertson (bass) Paul Gavin (drums) Cultural Center of Charlotte County William H. Wakeman III Theater 7:00 p.m. 2280 Aaron Street Port Charlotte, FL 33952 941-766-9422 Charlotte County Jazz Society website The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Play the Music of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers Featuring Jazz Master MARTY MORELL on Drums and 12-year old Piano Sensation BRANDON GOLDBERG East Naples United Methodist Church November 11, 2018 (Sunday) Join Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto as they as they celebrate the legacy and music of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers featuring the legendary drummer Marty Morell (member of the Bill Evans Trio 1968 - 1974), 12-year old jazz piano sensation Brandon Goldberg (as seen on the Harry Connick Jr. Show and Steve Harvey's Little Big Shots on NBC) and bassist Richard Drexler (Bob Mintzer & Jeff Berlin). Art Blakey was one of the most dynamic musicians and leaders in the history of jazz music. His energy and swing were unparalleled as he lifted the bandstand each and every night. His bands were filled with some of the greatest improvisers and composers who then went on to lead their own groups. The program will feature many of the songs that are identified with Art Blakey including compositions by Horace Silver, Benny Golson, Bobby Timmons, Lee Morgan, Wayne Shorter and Freddie Hubbard. 11.11.18 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet featuring Brandon Goldberg and Marty Morell Plays the Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers Brandon Goldberg (piano) Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Richard Drexler (bass) Marty Morell (drums) 3:00 p.m. FREE Admission East Naples United Methodist Church 2701 Airport Road South Naples, FL 34112 239-775-0745 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet featuring master drummer Marty Morell Kaleidoscope of the Arts: Turning Broken Lives Around A Storyteller Creative Arts BenefitG Naples Hilton November 15, 2018 (Thursday) Join Lew Del Gatto and I on Thursday November 15th, as we lead an All-Star Quintet at the Naples Hilton as part of the benefit fundraiser for a wonderful organization, Storytellers Creative Arts. The group features Lew and myself along with the legendary drummer Marty Morell (a member of the Bill Evans Trio 1968 - 1974), Dan Heck on guitar and Brandon Robertson on bass. This will be a great night of music and art featuring one of the world's foremost chocolatiers Paul Joachim "The Chocolate Genius" and Stacy Deffenbaugh of NBC 2. My friend William Barnett is the chairman and host of this event. It is an incredibly worthy cause and I hope you can join us for a beautiful evening to help Storytellers Creative Arts. Bill Barnett (host) Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Dan Heck (guitar) Brandon Robertson (bass) Marty Morell (drums) Hilton Naples 5:30 p.m. 5111 Tamiami Trail North Naples, FL 34103 239-591-6649 Storytellers Creative Arts website 2017 - 2018 ALL THAT JAZZ SERIES at ARTIS - Naples October 2017 - May 2018 After the great success of the last seven seasons sold out series, the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra returns for it's eighth season with an amazing lineup of internationally acclaimed guest stars. THE NAPLES PHILHARMONIC JAZZ ORCHESTRA Come hear the finest live jazz music in the region as the all-star Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra headlines this new series in the intimate setting of Daniels Pavilion. Each concert in All That Jazz will feature an esteemed special guest artist. Eight exciting programs (16 concerts) showcasing a variety of great jazz music! The Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra is: Glenn Basham (coordinator and violin) Lew Del Gatto (artistic director, co-bandleader and tenor saxophone) Jerry Stawski (co-bandleader and piano) Mike Harvey (drums) Kevin Mauldin (bass) Dan Miller (trumpet) ARTIS - Naples (The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts) 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 (239) 597-1900 or (800) 597-1900 ARTIS - Naples website Each ALL THAT JAZZ event will have two nightly shows: 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 10.25.17 Guitarist Russell Malone 11.15.17 Tenor Saxophonist Grant Stewart 12.13.17 Vocalist Carmen Bradford 2.14.18 Alto Saxophonist Steve Wilson 3.14.18 Trombonist Steve Davis 3.28.18 Vibraphonist Warren Wolf 4.18.18 Trumpeter Randy Brecker 5.16.18 The Music of Miles Davis 1958-1959 Dan Miller - Dan Heck Quartet Saint John the Evangelist Concert Series April 12, 2018 (Thursday) I'm bringing together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging acoustic jazz music at Saint John the Evangelist Church in Naples including guitarist Dan Heck, bassist Brandon Robertson and drummer Paul Gavin. They will play a program of music that celebrates the Great American Songbook (George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Cole Porter) as well as jazz music's greatest composers (Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie). This is a group of musicians that play with passion and fire and whose goal is to swing with authority. Join us for a night of standards, ballads and blues. The Dan Miller - Dan Heck Quartet Dan Miller (trumpet) Dan Heck (guitar) Brandon Robertson (bass) Paul Gavin (drums) Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church FREE ADMISSION 7:00 p.m. 625 111th Avenue North Naples, FL 34108 239-566-8740 Saint John the Evangelist website The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Sextet Play the Music of Art Blakey Featuring Marty Morell, Jeff Rupert and Richard Drexler Center For The Arts Bonita Springs April 27, 2018 (Friday) Join Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto as they as they celebrate the legacy and music of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers featuring the legendary drummer Marty Morell (member of the Bill Evans Trio 1968 - 1974). Art Blakey was one of the most dynamic musicians and leaders in the history of jazz music. His energy and swing were unparalleled as he lifted the bandstand each and every night. His bands were filled with some of the greatest improvisers and composers who then went on to lead their own groups. The program will feature many of the songs that are identified with Art Blakey including compositions by Horace Silver, Benny Golson, Bobby Timmons, Lee Morgan, Wayne Shorter and Freddie Hubbard. Trumpeter Dan Miller built his reputation touring and recording with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. He brings together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging acoustic jazz music including tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto (Saturday Night Live Band 1975-2005 & Frank Sinatra), tenor saxophonist Jeff Rupert (Maynard Ferguson & Mel Torme), pianist Richard Drexler (Bob Mintzer & Jeff Berlin), bassist Brandon Robertson (Count Basie) and the legendary drummer Marty Morell (Bill Evans Trio 1968 - 1974). The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Sextet Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Jeff Rupert (tenor saxophone) Richard Drexler (piano) Brandon Robertson (bass) Marty Morell (drums) 8:00 p.m. Center For The Arts Bonita Springs Hinman Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Road Bonita Springs, FL 34135 239-495-8989 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Plays Naples "Stay In May" Festival Jazz from New Orleans To New York Collier County Library South Regional Branch May 4, 2018 (Friday) You are invited on a musical journey that spans over fifty years of jazz music. We begin in the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans with the genius who created it all, Louis Armstrong. From there we will hear the music of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Lester Young, Coleman Hawkins, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis and John Coltrane. A free-wheeling excursion from traditional New Orleans jazz to swing to bebop and beyond! The evening will also feature the swinging vocal stylings of the very talented Patricia Dean who brings the influence of Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald and Nancy Wilson to every one of her performances. For this concert, Dan brings together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging, acoustic jazz music including pianist Joe Delaney, bassist Brandon Robertson and drummer-vocalist Patricia Dean. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Joe Delaney (piano) Brandon Robertson (bass) Patricia Dean (drums and vocals) 6:00 p.m. Collier County Library South Regional Branch 8065 Lely Cultural Pkwy Naples, FL 34113 888-613-8488 THE NAPLES PHILHARMONIC YOUTH JAZZ ORCHESTRA @ ARTIS - Naples Season Three: 2017 - 2018 After a highly successful first two seasons, the Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra (of which I am the director) returns for it's third season, set to run from September 2017 to May 2018. This mirrors the year-long schedule of the Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, Youth Chorus and Youth Symphonia. The founding producer of the "All That Jazz" series at Artis-Naples, Luciano Morello, always envisioned a jazz education program to accompany the concert series. That vision was realized with the launching of the Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra starting January 20th, 2016. In the first season, the Youth Jazz Orchestra rehearsals focused on learning the repertoire and small group arrangements of the great jazz masters including Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Horace Silver, Thelonious Monk and Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. The first season dealt exclusively with improvisation and small group playing, but the second season incorporated large ensemble playing and the third season will follow suit. This allows the students to play and study the music of Count Basie and Duke Ellington. The rehearsals also include the study of music theory and jazz improvisation taught by myself, as well as small group arranging techniques taught by Lew Del Gatto. Group members will rehearse the original arrangements of the jazz masters off of the original recordings and study the original recordings to master the style. The students will practice and rehearse two hours each week and play concerts throughout the season. I look forward to an exciting third season which will include three concerts (including December 9th featuring guest artist and internationally acclaimed jazz trumpeter and educator Bobby Shew) and participation in Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center's Essentially Ellington Program as well as Carnegie Hall's "Link Up" Program in performance with the Naples Philharmonic. Thanks to CEO and President Kathleen Van Bergen, Vice President of Artistic Operations David Filner, Director of Education and Community Partnerships Bonnie Thayer and Youth Ensembles Coordinator Johnathan McCann for all they do for youth education. 12.09.17 The Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra Winter Concert with BOBBY SHEW Dan Miller (Director) Featuring guest soloist Bobby Shew (trumpet)) Clinic: 1:00 p.m. Concert: 4:00 p.m. ARTIS - Naples (The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts) Daniels Pavilion 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 239-415-4375 2.11.18 The Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra NUCC Concert Dan Miller (Director) Concert: 3:00 p.m. Naples United Church of Christ 5200 Crayton Road Naples, FL 34103 239-261-5469 5.02.18 The Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra CAPA Concert Dan Miller (Director) Concert: 7:30 p.m. The Wang Opera Center 2408 Linwood Ave Naples, FL 34112 239-775-2800 5.07.18 The Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra Spring Concert Dan Miller (Director) Concert: 7:00 p.m. ARTIS - Naples (The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts) Daniels Pavilion 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 239-415-4375 A video chronicling the 12/8/17 rehearsal with the NPYJO and guest artist Bobby Shew An Article on the Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra from the ARTIS - Naples program The NPYJO webpage on the ARTIS - Naples website The ARTIS - Naples website with Ticket Information 2017 - 2018 Dan Miller College and HS Clinics I have been affiliated with the Yamaha Band and Orchestra Corporation as a Performing Artist and Clinician since 1991. I have been doing clinics, workshops and concerts with high school and college bands nation-wide since 1989 and enjoy working with students on a wide variety of topics including embouchure building for brass players, improvisation and jazz ensemble styles and techniques for small groups and big bands. Thank you to the YAMAHA Band and Orchestra Corporation for their dynamic support of music education 10.30.17 - 10.31.17 Dan Miller with Bill Sears @ The Interlochen Arts Academy Interlochen Arts Academy Interlochen, MI 11.02.17 - 11.03.17 Dan Miller with Chris McCourry and the Hillsdale College Jazz Ensemble Hillsdale College Hillsdale, MI 2.02.18 - 2.03.18 Dan Miller with the North Hennepin Community College Jazz Ensemble North Hennepin CC Jazz Festival Minneapolis, MN 2.26.18 - 2.27.18 Dan Miller with the Lake Highland Prep HS Jazz Ensemble Lake Highland Prep Jazz Night Orlando, FL 3.13.18 - 3.15.18 Dan Miller with the Lee County (FL) All-County Jazz Band North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts North Fort Myers, FL 4.16.18 - 4.17.18 Dan Miller with the Abilene Christian University Jazz Ensemble Abilene Christian University Abilene, TX 4.30.18 Dan Miller Improvisation Clinic at Oklahoma Baptist University Oklahoma Baptist University Shawnee, OK 4.30.18 Dan Miller Improvisation Clinic at the University of Central Oklahoma University of Central Oklahoma Edmund, OK 5.18.18 Dan Miller at the West Virginia Strawberry Festival West Virginia Wesleyan College Buckhannon, WV with Jeff Rupert and Richard Drexler Dan Miller Jazz Seminars at The University of Central Florida 2017 - 2018 will mark my fourth year as an Artist-in-Residence for the UCF School of Music and the Jazz Department under the directon of Jeff Rupert. I look forward to working with new students as well as building on all the work the students accomplished over the last three years. Fall Semester 2017 - Spring Semester 2018 I am pleased to announce that I will once again be doing a series of seminars and clinics at The University of Central Florida in Orlando for the Fall 2017 and Spring 2018 semesters. I look forward to working with the students and the world-class faculty including Jeff Rupert, Marty Morell, Richard Drexler, Per Danielsson, Bobby Koelble, Luis Fred and Luis Miguel Araya.
Fall Semester 2017 August 25th, August 26th (Florida HS All-State Preparation Clinic), September 22nd, October 13th, November 17th Spring Semester 2018 February 16th, March 9th, March 23rd - 24th (UCF Jazz Festival), March 30th, April 20th University of Central Florida Orlando, FL 32816 407-823-2869 Info: University of Central Florida Jazz website The Gulf Coast Big Band The 2017-2018 season will be my sixth as the Musical Director and Conductor for the Gulf Coast Big Band. The Gulf Coast Big Band is a community group and a non-profit organization that not only plays jazz music and provides free monthly concerts to the music fans of Naples and Collier County, but for over the last twenty years has raised and awarded over $80,000.00 in youth music scholarships to benefit student musicians of Collier County. We will have six swinging Sunday afternoon concerts, each held at 2:00 p.m. in Cambier Park which is located in beautiful downtown Naples, Florida. November 5, 2017 December 10, 2017 January 21, 2018 February 18, 2018 March 18, 2018 April 8, 2018 We will be playing the music of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Woody Herman, Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich, Dizzy Gillespie, Thad Jones/Mel Lewis, Tadd Dameron and all of the great bands. Dan Miller @ WARB-A-PALOOZA Terry Warburton's New Factory Grand Opening Concert 2018 February 22, 2018 (Thursday) Join us at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 22 at Astronaut High School, for the Grand Opening Celebration of our new factory in Titusville, Florida! Our Grand Opening Concert will feature music of all styles, performed by Warburton Artists from all over the country. This fun-filled, family event will have something for everyone! Grand Opening Factory Tours and Open House will begin at our new factory on Friday, February 23 from 12-6 p.m. Artists Include: Demondrae Thurman, Carl Fischer, Dan Miller, Dave Steinmeyer, JB Scott, Nicole Sasser, Ryan Sorenson, Aaron Romm, Lisa Kelly and The Brass Band of Central Florida Concert @ 7:00 p.m. Astronaut High School 800 War Eagle Blvd Titusville, Florida 32796 407-366-1991 Warburton webpage General Admission: $10 and Students (with ID or under 12): $7 Dan Miller with the Jeff Rupert Quintet featuring NYC Vocalist T-Bone Gerard Jazz on the Green at Six Bends March 10, 2018 (Saturday) Jazz on the Green makes it's return to SW Florida and will be held at Six Bends on Saturday, March 10, 2018 from 5-9 p.m. The festival will present three notable music ensembles, the Jeff Rupert Quintet, The Brandon Robertson Quartet and the Fort Myers HS Jazz Ensemble to raise money for Make-A-Wish Southern Florida! Presented by Cushman & Wakefield Commercial Property Southwest Florida, Jazz on the Green at Six Bends brings more than music. Guests may enjoy gourmet food, drinks, giveaways and dancing on the lawn for this all-white-attire event. The fundraising goal for this concert is to enable one wish each to be granted through the Make-A-Wish Southern Florida to two local children with critical illnesses. The Jeff Rupert Sextet Jeff Rupert (saxophone) Jeff "T-Bone" Gerard (vocals and trombone) Dan Miller (trumpet) Richard Drexler (piano) Ben Kramer (bass) Marty Morell (drums) 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. Six Bends 9510 Thunder Road Fort Myers, FL 33913 239-261-5469 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Plays The Music of George and Ira Gershwin Wang Opera Center for CAPA January 19, 2018 (Friday) Join trumpeter Dan Miller and saxophonist Lew Del Gatto as they celebrate the genius and music of George Gershwin. The music that Gershwin composed for the Broadway Stage and the Hollywood Screen became an integral part of the Great American Songbook, loved by musicians, singers and audiences alike. The program will include such favorites as Embraceable You, Oh Lady Be Good, I Got Rhythm, Summertime, S'Wonderful, Our Love Is Here To Stay, Love Walked In, Strike Up The Band, Soon, The Man I Love, But Not For Me and They Can't Take That Away from Me. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Joe Delaney (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Patricia Dean (drums and vocals) 7:30 p.m. The Wang Opera Center 2408 Linwood Ave Naples, FL 34112 239-775-2800 Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Featuring the Sensational Jazz Vocalist Kenny Washington The Sidney Berne Davis Art Center January 27, 2018 (Saturday) The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center is proud to welcome one of the brightest stars in jazz, vocalist Kenny Washington, for a special evening of music on Saturday January 27th, 2018. Recently dubbed "the Superman of the Bay Area jazz scene" by the San Francisco Chronicle, Kenny Washington is a jazz virtuoso who thrills audiences with his soulful interpretations, seemingly limitless range, and rapid-fire scatting. Ravi Coltrane has declared Kenny his favorite male vocalist, and Mark Murphy said in a Jazz Times interview that Kenny was the only contemporary male vocalist carrying on the tradition. This year, Kenny has thrilled audiences in NYC performing with Wynton Marsalis as a featured guest at Jazz at Lincoln Center's celebration of Ella Fitzgerald's 100th Birthday. Kenny swings hard in the tradition of the great vocalist Joe Williams, featured for many years with Count Basie. Kenny will be joined by the Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet. NYC jazz trumpeter Dan Miller built his reputation touring and recording with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. Tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto spent 30 years as a member of the Saturday Night Live Band (1975-2006) and toured and recorded with Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin and the Tonight Show Orchestra. They bring together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging acoustic jazz music including pianist Joe Delaney, bassist Don Mopsick and drummer Tony Vigilante. Kenny Washington, a native of New Orleans developed a deep love for music at a very young age. Kenny grew up singing and performing gospel in church. He began performing with the school band, playing saxophone and singing. After graduating from high school Kenny continued his studies in music at Xavier University. While at Xavier, he studied various styles of music ranging from traditional and contemporary jazz, to classical, rhythm and blues and pop. Joining the honorary U.S. Navy Band in 1986, Kenny performed and toured nationally and internationally throughout the U.S., Asia, Russia, and Australia. After nine years as a musician in the U.S. Navy, Kenny made his home in the San Francisco Bay Area. If you have never heard this New Orleans native sing before, get ready for a jaw dropping experience. Kenny is a jazz vocalist virtuoso. Emulating the classic styles of Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan and infusing colors of Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway, Kenny's free, playful approach, with over a four-octave range is awe inspiring. His tone on ballads is liquid, his scat is so rapid-fire, passionate, melodious and inventive that subsequent saxophone solos often pale, and his intonation is so precise that it becomes noticeable if the piano wasn't tuned that day. His range seems limitless. With a childhood background singing in gospel, Kenny is at home with the Blues as well as Jazz. This man is a must-see. Kenny Washington website Here's a clip of Kenny Washington singing with the Joe Locke Group, NYC 2013: Kenny Washington with the Joe Locke Group The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet featuring guest vocalist Kenny Washington Kenny Washington (vocals) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Dan Miller (trumpet) Joe Delaney (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Tony Vigilante (drums) Showtime: 8:00 p.m. The Sidney Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First Street Fort Myers, FL 33901 239-333-1933 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto All Stars Swing In The Afternoon North Naples United Methodist Church January 28, 2018 (Sunday) Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto are joined by an All-Star group of friends for a special afternon of swinging jazz music on Sunday January 28th at the North Naples United Methodist Church including Violinist Glenn Basham (Concertmaster of the Naples Philharmonic), Kevin Mauldin (Principal Bassist of the Naples Philharmonic), the spectacular trombonist Herb Bruce (Nashville Brass and The Jack Daniels Silver Cornet Band), Jerry Stawski (Co-Leader of the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra) and the incredibly swinging drummer and vocalist Patricia Dean. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto All Stars Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Glenn Basham (violin) Herb Bruce (trombone) Jerry Stawski (piano) Kevin Mauldin (bass) Patricia Dean (drums and vocals) Showtime: 4:00 p.m. North Naples United Methodist Church 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road Naples, FL 34109-7206 Tickets: $15.00 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Orchestra Big Band Holiday Spectacular Plays the Music of Count Basie and Duke Ellington North Naples United Methodist Church December 4, 2017 (Monday) Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto bring together an All-Star Big Band for a special evening of swinging music on Monday December 4th at the North Naples United Methodist Church. They will be playing a holiday-themed concert featuring the music of the Duke Ellington & Count Basie Orchestras. The second half of the concert will be a Jazz at the Philharmonic-style jam session featuring many of the world-class soloists from the Big Band. This group with feature some of the finest jazz musicians from all over Florida including musicians from Miami, Tampa, Orlando and SW Florida. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Orchestra Dan Miller (Musical Director and trumpet) Jeff Rupert (alto saxophone) Craig Christman (alto saxophone and clarinet) Lew Del Gatto and Gabe Wallace (tenor saxophones) Jack Wengrosky, Mike Santiago, Mark Pettey, and Steve DeLadurantey (trumpets) Herb Bruce, Dante Luciani, Jeremiah St.John, Adren Hance (trombones) Jerry Stawski (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Marty Morell (drums) Showtime: 7:00 p.m. North Naples United Methodist Church 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road Naples, FL 34109-7206 NNUMC website 2016 - 2017 ALL THAT JAZZ SERIES at ARTIS - Naples November 2016 - May 2017 After the great success of the last six seasons sold out series, the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra returns for it's seventh season with an amazing lineup of internationally acclaimed guest stars. THE NAPLES PHILHARMONIC JAZZ ORCHESTRA Come hear the finest live jazz music in the region as the all-star Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra headlines this new series in the intimate setting of Daniels Pavilion. Each concert in All That Jazz will feature an esteemed special guest artist. Eight exciting programs (16 concerts) showcasing a variety of great jazz music! The Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra is: Glenn Basham (coordinator and violin) Lew Del Gatto (artistic director, co-bandleader and tenor saxophone) Jerry Stawski (co-bandleader and piano) Mike Harvey (drums) Kevin Mauldin (bass) Dan Miller (trumpet) ARTIS - Naples (The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts) 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 (239) 597-1900 or (800) 597-1900 ARTIS - Naples website Each ALL THAT JAZZ event will have two nightly shows: 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 11.02.16 Trumpeter Wallace Roney 11.16.16 Trombonist Wycliffe Gordon 12.14.16 Vocalist Kenny Washington 1.04.17 Guitarist Martin Taylor 2.15.17 Alto Saxophonist George Young 3.08.17 Violinist Benjamin Schmid 4.05.17 Tenor Saxophonist Eric Alexander 4.26.17 The Music of Antonio Carlos Jobim The Dan Miller Quartet at The Roadhouse Every Tuesday Night starting October 11, 2016 We look forward to returning to The Roadhouse Cafe in Fort Myers starting on October 11, 2016 after a summer hiatus. We have played there from September 2012 to April 2016 and will be playing there every Tuesday night this upcoming season. The group features Joe Delaney (piano), Don Mopsick (bass) and Tony Vigilante (drums). Marc and Sheri Neeley and Lynda Colombo have a beautiful restaurant and jazz club that features the cooking of Chef Bryan Baker and a great, full bar. Sheri and Lynda's father was the wonderful jazz trumpeter Lou Columbo and they love and support jazz music, featuring live music seven nights a week. It is a great place for music and it will be swinging! The Roadhouse Cafe Every Tuesday 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. 15660 San Carlos Blvd, Suite 36 Fort Myers, FL 33908 239-415-4375 THE NAPLES PHILHARMONIC YOUTH JAZZ ORCHRSTRA @ ARTIS - Naples September 7, 2016 - May 31, 2017 After a highly successful first season, which ran from January to May 2016, ARTIS - Naples has decided to expand the second season of the Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra (of which I am the director) to run from September 2016 to May 2017. This mirrors the year-long schedule of the Naples Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, Youth Chorus and Youth Symphonia. The founding producer of the "All That Jazz" series at Artis-Naples, Luciano Morello, always envisioned a jazz education program to accompany the concert series. That vision was realized with the launching of the Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra starting January 20th, 2016. The Youth Jazz Orchestra rehearsals focused on learning the repertoire and small group arrangements of the great jazz masters including Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Horace Silver, Thelonious Monk and Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. The first season dealt exclusively with improvisation and small group playing, but the second season will additionally incorporate large ensemble playing, This would allow the students to play and study the music of Count Basie and Duke Ellington. The rehearsals also include the study of music theory and jazz improvisation taught by myself, as well as small group arranging techniques taught by Lew Del Gatto. Group members will transcribe and rehearse the original arrangements of the jazz masters off of the original recordings and they would be encouraged to compose and arrange their own original jazz music. The students will practice and rehearse two hours each week and play concerts throughout the season. Thanks to CEO and President Kathleen Van Bergen, Vice President of Artistic Operations David Filner, Director of Education and Community Partnerships Bonnie Thayer and Youth Ensembles Coordinator Meagan McDevitt for all they do for youth education. 12.07.16 The Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra Winter Concert Dan Miller (Director) Featuring guest soloists Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) and Glenn Basham (violin) Concert: 7:00 p.m. ARTIS - Naples (The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts) Daniels Pavilion 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 239-415-4375 2.12.17 The Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra NUCC Concert Dan Miller (Director) Featuring guest soloists Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) and Glenn Basham (violin) Concert: 3:00 p.m. Naples United Church of Christ 5200 Crayton Road Naples, FL 34103 5.24.16 The Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra Spring Concert Dan Miller (Director) Featuring guest soloists Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) and Glenn Basham (violin) Concert: 7:00 p.m. ARTIS - Naples (The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts) Daniels Pavilion 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 239-415-4375 An Article on the Naples Philharmonic Youth Jazz Orchestra from the ARTIS - Naples program The NPYJO webpage on the ARTIS - Naples website The ARTIS - Naples website with Ticket Information Dan Miller Jazz Seminars at The University of Central Florida 2016 - 2017 will mark my third year as an Artist-in-Residence for the UCF School of Music and the Jazz Department under the directon of Jeff Rupert. I look forward to building on all the work the students accomplished the last two years. Fall Semester 2016 - Spring Semester 2017 I am excited to announce that I will be doing a series of five (5) seminars and clinics at The University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida this Fall 2016 and Spring 2017 semesters. I look forward to working with the students and the world-class faculty including Jeff Rupert, Marty Morell, Richard Drexler, Per Danielsson, Bobby Koelble, Michael Wilkinson and John Almeida.
Fall Semester 2016 August 26th, August 27th (Florida HS All-State Preparation Clinic), September 16th, October 14th, November 18th Spring Semester 2017 February 3rd, February 24th, March 3rd, March 25th (UCF Jazz Festival), March 31st University of Central Florida Orlando, FL 32816 407-823-2869 Info: University of Central Florida Jazz website The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Orchestra Plays the Duke Ellington - Billy Strayhorn Arrangements of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite North Naples United Methodist Church December 5, 2016 Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto bring together an All-Star Big Band for a special evening of swinging music on Monday December 5th at the North Naples United Methodist Church. They will be playing the music of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite as arranged by Duke Ellington & Billy Strayhorn and recorded by the Duke Ellington Orchestra in 1960. This is a work of breathtaking scope and it is both highly nuanced and incredibly swinging. The second half of the concert will be a Jazz at the Philharmonic-style jam session featuring many of the world-class soloists from the Big Band. This group with feature some of the finest jazz musicians from all over Florida including saxophonists Lew Del Gatto, Jeff Rupert, Gerald Augustin, Craig Christman, trumpeters Dave Pruyn, Mike Santiago, Mark Pettey, trombonists Dante Luciani, Herb Bruce and a very swinging rhythm section of pianist Jerry Stawski, bassist Don Mopsick and drummer Tony Vigilante. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Orchestra Dan Miller (Musical Director and trumpet) Jeff Rupert (alto saxophone) Craig Christman (alto saxophone and clarinet) Lew Del Gatto and Gerald Augustin (tenor saxophones) Mike Santiago, Mark Pettey, Dave Pruyn and Steve DeLadurantey (trumpets) Herb Bruce, Dante Luciani, Jeremiah St.John, Adren Hance (trombones) Jerry Stawski (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Tony Vigilante (drums) Showtime: 7:00 p.m. North Naples United Methodist Church 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road Naples, FL 34109-7206 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Plays the Music of Harold Arlen Art League of Bonita Springs January 14, 2017 Join Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto as they celebrate the genius and music of Harold Arlen. Harold Arlen was one of the greatest songwriters of the Twentieth Century. The music that he composed for the Broadway Stage and the Hollywood Screen (including The Wizard of Oz) became an integral part of the Great American Songbook, loved by musicians, singers and audiences alike. The music he wrote with lyricist Johnny Mercer was closely associated with Frank Sinatra. The program will include such favorites as Over The Rainbow, My Shining Hour, Come Rain Or Come Shine, Get Happy, Out Of This World, Let's Fall In Love, That Old Black Magic, Blues In The Night, Sleepin' Bee and This Time The Dream's On Me. Trumpeter Dan Miller built his reputation touring and recording with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. He brings together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging acoustic jazz music including legendary tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto (Saturday Night Live Band 1975-2005 & Frank Sinatra), pianist Joe Delaney, bassist Don Mopsick and drummer-vocalist Patricia Dean. Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Joe Delaney (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Patricia Dean (drums and vocals) Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs Concert 8:00 p.m. Hinman Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE The corner of Bonita Beach Road and Vermont Street Bonita Springs, FL 34135 info & tickets call 239-495-8989 Tickets: $25 Member / $30 Non-Member / $35 Door Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Featuring the Sensational Jazz Vocalist Veronica Swift The Sidney Berne Davis Art Center January 27, 2017 The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center is proud to welcome one of the brightest new stars in jazz, NYC vocalist Veronica Swift, for a special evening of music on Friday January 27th, 2017. Veronica Swift, age 22, is now being recognized around the country as one of the top young jazz singers on the scene. In the fall of 2015, she won second place at the prestigious Thelonious Monk Jazz Competition. Following that she was asked to do a concert of her own at the Tribeca Performing Arts Center in New York City in March of 2016. In April of 2016, she was a guest artist with Michael Feinstein at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York with the Tedd Firth Big Band and Marilyn Maye and Freda Payne. Veronica’s first appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center was at age 11 for “Women in Jazz” series at Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola. Veronica has been on tour with her parents, renowned jazz pianist Hod O’Brien and celebrated jazz singer and educator/author Stephanie Nakasian. She has appeared on stage with Jon Hendricks, Annie Ross, Esperanza Spalding, Joe Lovano, Bob Dorough, Kim Nazarian, Danilo Perez, and others. With her family she has appeared at The Great Waters Music Festival in NH, Blues Alley Jazz Club in DC, the Jazz Standard in NYC, the jazz cruise, and for the NJ and Hilton Head Jazz Societies. Veronica will be joined by the Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quinet. NYC jazz trumpeter Dan Miller built his reputation touring and recording with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. He brings together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging acoustic jazz music including legendary tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto (Saturday Night Live Band 1975-2005 & Frank Sinatra), pianist Joe Delaney, bassist Don Mopsick and drummer Tony Vigilante. Dan Miller says, "I met Veronica Swift in 2014 when she and her parents, Hod O'Brien and Stephanie Nakasian, came down and played the whole night with my quartet at The Roadhouse Cafe in Fort Myers and then again this year at the University of Central Florida's Jazz Festival in Orlando. Her performance was incendiary! I was stunned at the depth of swing and soulfulness she possesses. She is a wonderful new artist who brings her love of Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Anita O'Day, Peggy Lee and Charlie Parker to the stage each and every night combined with her own unique style. She is poised to become one of the shining stars of this music. If you love jazz vocals you won't want to miss her performance." Veronica Swift website Here's a clip of Veronica Swift singing You Don't Know What Love Is: Veronica Swift sings You Don't Know What Love Is The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet featuring guest vocalist Veronica Swift Veronica Swift (vocals) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Dan Miller (trumpet) Joe Delaney (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Tony Vigilante (drums) Showtime: 8:00 p.m. The Sidney Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First Street Fort Myers, FL 33901 239-333-1933 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto All Stars Swing In The Afternoon North Naples United Methodist Church January 29, 2017 Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto are joined by an All-Star group of friends for a special afternon of swinging jazz music on Sunday January 29th at the North Naples United Methodist Church including Violinist Glenn Basham (Concertmaster of the Naples Philharmonic), Kevin Mauldin (Principal Bassist of the Naples Philharmonic), the spectacular trombonist Herb Bruce (Nashville Brass and The Jack Daniels Silver Cornet Band), Jerry Stawski (Co-Leader of the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra) and the incredibly swinging drummer and vocalist Patricia Dean. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto All Stars Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Glenn Basham (violin) Herb Bruce (trombone) Jerry Stawski (piano) Kevin Mauldin (bass) Patricia Dean (drums and vocals) Showtime: 4:00 p.m. North Naples United Methodist Church 6000 Goodlette-Frank Road Naples, FL 34109-7206 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Naples Botanical Gardens Jazz Series Naples Botanical Gardens March 12, 2017 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto returns to the Naples Botanical Gardens for an afternoon concert in one of the most beautiful settings for music in Florida. This is a gorgeous place and truly one of Southwest Florida's great treasures. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Joe Delaney (piano) Don Mopsick (bass) Patricia Dean (drums and vocals) Concert: 2:00 p.m. Naples Botanical Gardens 4820 Bayshore Drive Naples, FL 34112 (239) 643-7275 Naples Botanical Gardens website 2015 - 2016 ALL THAT JAZZ SERIES at ARTIS - Naples October 2015 - May 2016 After the great success of the last five season's sold out series, the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra returns for it's sixth season with an amazing lineup of internationally acclaimed guest stars. THE NAPLES PHILHARMONIC JAZZ ORCHESTRA Come hear the finest live jazz music in the region as the all-star Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra headlines this new series in the intimate setting of Daniels Pavilion. Each concert in All That Jazz will feature an esteemed special guest artist. Eight exciting programs (16 concerts) showcasing a variety of great jazz music! The Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra is: Glenn Basham (coordinator and violin) Lew Del Gatto (co-bandleader and tenor saxophone) Jerry Stawski (co-bandleader and piano) Mike Harvey (drums) Kevin Mauldin (bass) Dan Miller (trumpet) ARTIS - Naples (The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts) 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 (239) 597-1900 or (800) 597-1900 ARTIS - Naples website Each ALL THAT JAZZ event will have two nightly shows: 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 10.28.15 Baritone Saxophonist Gary Smulyan 11.18.15 Vocalist Kenny Washington 12.16.15 Trombonist Robin Eubanks 1.06.16 Guitarist Joe Cohn 2.17.16 Vocalist Carmen Lundy 3.09.16 Flautist Hubert Laws 4.27.16 Cornetist Warren Vache 5.11.16 The Music of Horace Silver The Dan Miller Quartet at The Roadhouse Every Tuesday Night starting October 20, 2015 We look forward to returning to The Roadhouse Cafe starting on October 21st 2015 after a summer hiatus. We have played there from September 2012 to May 2015. We will be playing every Tuesday night this season at The Roadhouse Cafe in Fort Myers. The group features Joe Delaney (piano), Don Mopsick (bass) and Tony Vigilante (drums). Marc and Sheri Neeley and Lynda Colombo have a beautiful restaurant and jazz club that features the cooking of Chef Bryan Baker and a great, full bar. Sheri and Lynda's father was the wonderful jazz trumpeter Lou Columbo and they love and support jazz music, featuring live music seven nights a week. It is a great place for music and it will be swinging! The Roadhouse Cafe Every Tuesday 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. 15660 San Carlos Blvd, Suite 36 Fort Myers, FL 33908 239-415-4375 Dan Miller Jazz Seminars at The University of Central Florida 2015 - 2016 marks my second year as an Artist-in-Residence for the UCF School of Music and the Jazz Department under the directon of Jeff Rupert. I look forward to building on all the work the students accomplished last year. Fall Semester 2015 I am excited to announce that I will be doing a series of five (5) seminars and clinics at The University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida this Fall 2015 semester. I look forward to working with the students and the world-class faculty including Jeff Rupert, Marty Morell, Richard Drexler, Per Danielsson, Bobby Koelble, Michael Wilkinson and John Almeida. Spring Semester 2016 I would like to announce that I will be returning to do a series of six (6) seminars and clinics at The University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida this Spring 2016 semester.
Fall Semester 2015 August 28th, September 16th, October 2nd, October 23rd and December 4th Spring Semester 2016 January 22nd, February 12th, February 26th, March 18th, March 19th (UCF Jazz Festival), April 1st and April 22nd University of Central Florida Orlando, FL 32816 407-823-2869 Info: University of Central Florida Jazz website The Gulf Coast Big Band The 2015-2016 season will be my fourth as the Musical Director and Conductor for the Gulf Coast Big Band. The Gulf Coast Big Band is a community group and a non-profit organization that not only plays jazz music, but for over the last twenty years has raised and awarded over $80,000.00 in youth music scholarships to benefit student musicians of Collier County. We will have six swinging Sunday afternoon concerts, each held at 2:00 p.m. in Cambier Park which is located in beautiful downtown Naples, Florida. November 15, 2015 December 13, 2015 January 24, 2016 February 14, 2016 March 13, 2016 April 17, 2016 We will be playing the music of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Woody Herman, Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich, Dizzy Gillespie, Thad Jones/Mel Lewis, Tadd Dameron and all of the great bands. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet at Mereday's Brasserie Bayfront Formerly ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen **Every Saturday Night NOW STARTING AT 8:00 p.m. I am leading a group with Lew Del Gatto on Saturday nights at world-class Chef Charles Mereday's newly re-branded restaurant Mereday's Brasserie Bayfront (formerly ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen). Chef Mereday has brought together the best of his teams from Mereday's Fine Dining and Mereday's Brasserie at Coconut Point to create the team at Mereday's Brasserie Bayfront. Chef Mereday will be in the kitchen doing the cooking and directing the service personally. His passion and creativity is boundless and he is dedicated to bringing a unique dining and entertainment experience to Naples. The music will be starting later (8:00 to 11:00) in order to offer patrons the opportunity to enjoy the fine dining experience and quiet conversation during their dinner. Chef Mereday worked at Zanzibar Blue in Philadelphia, a jazz club with fine dining, and always wanted to have a jazz club of his own with a menu that reflected the spirit of the music. We have a swinging quintet featuring Joe Delaney (piano), Don Mopsick (bass) and Patricia Dean (drums). This is a beautiful, venue that is dedicated to the food and the music. It will be swinging! Mereday's Brasserie Bayfront (formerly ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen) Every Saturday 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. 492 Bayfront Place Naples, FL 34102 239-261-2586 2014 - 2015 ALL THAT JAZZ SERIES at ARTIS - Naples October 2014 - May 2015 After the great success of the last four season's sold out series, the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra returns for it's fifth season with an amazing lineup of internationally acclaimed guest stars. THE NAPLES PHILHARMONIC JAZZ ORCHESTRA Come hear the finest live jazz music in the region as the all-star Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra headlines this new series in the intimate setting of Daniels Pavilion. Each concert in All That Jazz will feature an esteemed special guest artist. Eight exciting programs (16 concerts) showcasing a variety of great jazz music! The Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra is: Glenn Basham (coordinator and violin) Lew Del Gatto (co-bandleader and tenor saxophone) Jerry Stawski (co-bandleader and piano) Mike Harvey (drums) Kevin Mauldin (bass) Dan Miller (trumpet) ARTIS - Naples (The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts) 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 (239) 597-1900 or (800) 597-1900 ARTIS - Naples website Each ALL THAT JAZZ event will have two nightly shows: 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 10.29.14 Vibraphonist Jason Marsalis 12.10.14 Pianist Uri Caine 1.07.15 Vocalist Kevin Mahogany 2.04.15 Guitarist Pat Martino 3.04.15 Saxophonist Jimmy Heath 4.01.15 Trumpeter Jon Faddis 4.22.15 Trombonist Wycliffe Gordon 5.13.15 The Music of Art Blakey featuring drummer Mike Harvey The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet at ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen Every Saturday Night I am leading a group with Lew Del Gatto on Saturday nights at world-class Chef Charles Mereday's new restaurant ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen. Chef Mereday worked at Zanzibar Blue in Philadelphia, a jazz club with fine dining, and always wanted to have a jazz club of his own with a menu that reflected the spirit of the music. After the tremendous success of Mereday's Fine Dining, Charles was able to make that dream a reality with the opening of ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen. The restaurant has been receiving rave reviews for it's food, music and atmosphere. We have a swinging quintet featuring Joe Delaney (piano), Don Mopsick (bass) and Patricia Dean (drums). This is a beautiful, new venue that is dedicated to the food and the music. It will be swinging! ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen Every Saturday 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. 492 Bayfront Place Naples, FL 34102 239-261-2586 The Dan Miller Quartet at The Roadhouse Every Tuesday Night We will be playing every Tuesday night this season at The Roadhouse Cafe in Fort Myers. We just celebrated our two year anniversary of straight ahead acoustic jazz music at the club, having played there weekly since September 2012. The group features Joe Delaney (piano), Don Mopsick (bass) and Tony Vigilante (drums). Marc and Sheri Neeley and Lynda Colombo have a beautiful restaurant and jazz club that features the cooking of Chef Bryan Baker and a great, full bar. Sheri and Lynda's father was the wonderful jazz trumpeter Lou Columbo and they love and support jazz music, featuring live music seven nights a week. It is a great place for music and it will be swinging! The Roadhouse Cafe Every Tuesday 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. 15660 San Carlos Blvd, Suite 36 Fort Myers, FL 33908 239-415-4375 
Fall Semester 2014 August 22nd, September 5th, September 26th, October 10th and November 14th Spring Semester 2015 February 6th, February 20th, March 6th, April 3rd and April 24th University of Central Florida Orlando, FL 32816 407-823-2869 Info: University of Central Florida Jazz website NEW YEARS EVE @ ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen Featuring the Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet 12.31.14 (Wednesday) Celebrate the New Year with jazz music and a fabulous 4-course dinner with a champagne toast at world-class Chef Charles Mereday's new restaurant ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen. Lew Del Gatto and I will be leading an incredibly swinging group featuring Joe Delaney (piano), Don Mopsick (bass) and Paul Gavin (drums). It will be a great night. ALTO Live Jazz Kitchen 9:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. 492 Bayfront Place Naples, FL 34102 239-261-2586 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Sextet Plays the Music of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn The Art League of Bonita Springs 1.02.15 (Friday) Join Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto as they celebrate the genius and music of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. Duke Ellington is one of the most towering figures in the history of jazz, writing and composing his own sophisticated, swinging music and leading his own orchestra for over fifty years. The music Ellington and Strayhorn composed is an integral part of the Great American Songbook and forms the back bone of jazz repertoire. The program will include such favorites as Take The A Train, Satin Doll, In A Mellowtone, Caravan, Do Nothing 'til You Hear From Me, Perdido, Mood Indigo, Just Squeeze Me, In A Sentimental Mood, Sophisticated Lady, Happy-Go Lucky Local and Cottontail. The group will feature Dan Miller (trumpet), Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone), Herb Bruce (trombone), Joe Delaney (piano), Don Mopsick (bass) and Patricia Dean (drums and vocals) The Art League of Bonita Springs Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs Concert 8:00 p.m. Hinman Auditorium 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE The corner of Bonita Beach Road and Vermont Street Bonita Springs, FL 34135 info & tickets call 239-495-8989 Tickets: $25 Member / $30 Non-Member / $35 Door 2013 - 2014 ALL THAT JAZZ SERIES at ARTIS - Naples November 2013 - June 2014 After the great success of the last three season's sold out series, the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra returns for it's fourth season with an amazing lineup of internationally acclaimed guest stars. THE NAPLES PHILHARMONIC JAZZ ORCHESTRA Come hear the finest live jazz music in the region as the all-star Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra headlines this new series in the intimate setting of Daniels Pavilion. Each concert in All That Jazz will feature an esteemed special guest artist. Eight exciting programs (16 concerts) showcasing a variety of great jazz music! Luciano Morello (Executive Producer) The Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra is: Glenn Basham (coordinator and violin) Lew Del Gatto (co-bandleader and tenor saxophone) Jerry Stawski (co-bandleader and piano) Mike Harvey (drums) Kevin Mauldin (bass) Dan Miller (trumpet) ARTIS - Naples (The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts) 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 (239) 597-1900 or (800) 597-1900 ARTIS - Naples website Each ALL THAT JAZZ event will have two nightly shows: 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. 11.15.13 Vibraphonist Joe Locke 12.11.13 Tenor Saxophonist Benny Golson 1.08.14 Trumpeter Tom Harrell 2.19.14 Pianist Dick Hyman 3.19.14 Guitarist Peter Bernstein 4.16.14 Trombinist Conrad Herwig 5.21.14 Tribute to Charles Mingus Featuring Bassist Kevin Mauldin 6.11.14 The Complete History of Jazz In 75 Minutes The Dan Miller Quartet at The Roadhouse Every Tuesday Night I am pleased to announce that the group with Jerry Stawski, Don Mopsick, Patricia Dean and I will be appearing at The Roadhouse Cafe in Fort Myers every Tuesday throughout the season. Marc and Sheri Neeley and Lynda Colombo have a beautiful restaurant and jazz club and we look forward to great music there. The Roadhouse Cafe 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. 15660 San Carlos Blvd, Suite 36 Fort Myers, FL 33908 239-415-4375 The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet featuring Kenny Drew Jr. plays the Music of George Gershwin April 3, 2014 Join Dan Miller and Lew Del Gatto as they celebrate the genius and music of George Gershwin with the world-class NYC jazz pianist Kenny Drew Jr. The music Gershwin composed is an integral part of the Great American Songbook. The program will include such favorites as Embraceable You, Oh Lady Be Good, I Got Rhythm, Summertime, S'Wonderful, Our Love Is Here To Stay, Love Walked In, Strike Up The Band, Soon, The Man I Love, But Not For Me and They Can't Take That Away from Me. Dan Miller built his reputation touring and recording with Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson and Woody Herman. He brings together a tremendous group of musicians for an evening of hard swinging acoustic jazz music including pianist Kenny Drew Jr. (who has recorded with Slide Hampton, Jimmy Heath, Jon Faddis, the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band and the Mingus Big Band), tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto (Saturday Night Live Band 1975-2005 & Frank Sinatra), bassist Dan Heck and drummer Ron Hefner. The Art League of Bonita Springs Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Kenny Drew Jr. (piano) Dan Heck (bass) Patricia Dean (drums) Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs Hinman Auditorium Concert 7:00 p.m. 10150 Bonita Beach Road SE The corner of Bonita Beach Road and Vermont Street Bonita Springs, FL 34135 info & tickets call 239-495-8989 Tickets $25 member / $30 non-member / $35 at the door TENOR MADNESS: A NYC TENOR SAXOPHONE SUMMIT April 12, 2014  Footsteps to the Future is proud to present their 5th Annual Benefit Jazz Concert, TENOR MADNESS: A NYC Tenor Saxophone Summit on Saturday April 12, 2014 at Hodges University in Naples, Florida The concert, benefiting Footsteps to the Future, will feature three world-class New York City tenor saxophonists engaged in a classic musical battle royal in the spirit of Jazz at the Philharmonic or a late night jam session at a jazz club in the Village or Uptown. The concert will benefit Footsteps to the Future, Inc., a unique mentoring program in Lee and Collier Counties and a model for change in Southwest Florida and the nation. Its goal is to empower young women in and aging out of foster care, to safely and successfully transition to living independently through programs such as evidence-based mentoring, self-sufficiency and advocacy. Celebrate with us as we promote our current pilot projects, the Academic Achievement and Tutoring Programs. The featured artists are: Jerry Weldon (Harry Connick Jr., Lionel Hampton, Jack McDuff, Jimmy McGriff, Dr.Lonnie Smith) Lew Del Gatto (Saturday Night Live Band, Frank Sinatra, Phil Woods) Jeff Rupert (Maynard Ferguson, Mel Torme, Sam Rivers) As well as trumpeter Dan Miller (Harry Connick Jr., Wynton Marsalis, Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman) "A thoughtful soloist whose subtle swing has plenty of fiber" is how Ira Gitler described tenor saxophonist Jerry Weldon in The Biographical Encyclopedia of Jazz. A native New Yorker, the tenorman is a veteran of the New York Jazz Scene, his résumé reading like a virtual "Who's Who of Jazz. "After graduating from the Rutgers University Jazz Program under the direction of Paul Jeffrey in 1981, Jerry joined the legendary Lionel Hampton Orchestra, touring extensively in the U.S., Europe, South America, and Japan. Jerry continued his association as one of Hamp's favorite tenor soloists through the '90s and into the new millennium. Next came a long and rewarding tour of duty as a member of master organist Jack McDuff & his "Heatin' System," resulting in many fine recordings on the Concord label. In 1990, Jerry became a charter member and featured soloist with Harry Connick Jr.'s newly formed Big Band. Jerry has toured the U.S., Europe, Asia, Australia and has also performed on many television shows worldwide with the Connick Orchestra. In 2001, Jerry was also part of Connick's Broadway musical production, "Thou Shalt Not" where he appeared on stage as well as in the orchestra. The '90s also found Jerry in another long and fruitful musical cooperative- the New York Hard Bop Quintet, along with trumpeter Joe Magnarelli, pianist Keith Saunders, bassist Bim Strasberg and drummer Clifford Barbaro, the unit toured throughout the U.S. & Europe while recording four stellar albums for the Swiss TCB label. Jer has worked and recorded with organists Jimmy McGriff, Joey DeFrancesco, Bobby Forrester, Dr. Lonnie Smith, and Mel Rhyne, trombone great Al Grey, piano giants George Cables and Cedar Walton, drum legends Roy Haynes and Jimmy Cobb as well as guitarist/singer George Benson, guitarist Earl Klugh, bassist Keter Betts and singer Mel Tormé. In 2003 Jerry was involved in a very special musical project: "Jazz @ Lincoln Center Plays the Music of Dexter Gordon". Along with fellow tenorists Jimmy Greene and Wayne Escoffery and the George Cables Trio, the sextet performed at New York's Kaplan Penthouse and also toured the U.S. "That was really special to me" Jer said, "Dexter was one of my very favorite musicians. I was thrilled and honored to have been a part of it." Weldon is a bandleader in his own right, leading ensembles at many of New York's jazz clubs and at jazz festivals around the U.S. He has recorded several albums under his own name, among them, "Head To Head," a swinging two-tenor date with Michael Karn on the Criss Cross Jazz label "Midtown Blues," a rousing quintet with long time collaborator Joe Mags (Magnarelli) recorded live at Fat Tuesdays in NYC, and two hard-swinging dates with the late, great organist, Jerry's long-time pal, Bobby Forrester. "It was after working with Bobby all those years that made it easier to the go with Jack (McDuff), Jimmy (McGriff) and all the other cats" says Jer, "Bobby was truly a hero of mine." Jer continues to be extremely active on the New York scene- "I just want to keep it swinging. If I can do that, I'm happy." Jeff Rupert is a Yamaha performing artist, a record producer, recording artist, freelance tenor saxophonist, full professor, and Director of Jazz Studies at UCF. Rupert has been a featured soloist on dozens of recordings with artists including Maynard Ferguson, Sam Rivers, Mel Tormé, Diane Schuur and Benny Carter. He played on Carter's Harlem Renaissance which won a Grammy. He played and arranged for the New Jersey-based Blues band The Fins. He has also performed with Kevin Mahogany, Ernestine Anderson, Joe Farnsworth, Ray Drummond, Harry Allen, pianist Benny Green, Kenny Drew jr, trumpeter Michael Philip Mossman, and pianist and singer Judy Carmichael. Rupert currently is the leader of The Jazz Professors, a sextet which had top JazzWeek charting hit albums in 2012 and 2013. "The Jazz Professors: Live at the UCF-Orlando Jazz Festival" (Flying Horse, 2011) which and peaked at #19 during its seventeen weeks on the JazzWeek charts. His third album, "From Memphis to Mobile", with Kenny Drew, Jr. Rupert joined Sam Rivers' band in 1996 and appeared in four recordings with the group. He has performed in hundreds of concerts with Rivers, including performances at Lincoln for Ed Bradley's Jazz from Lincoln Center (broadcast on NPR), the Vision Festival NYC and Columbia University. He has been a member of the Jaguar International Jazz Series alongside Joe LaBarbera, Tom Wharington, Larry Koonse, and John Fedchock. Tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto has been a dynamic figure in the New York music scene for over 40 years. His versatility and knowledgeable comprehension of musical art-form was the basis for a stellar career. He has been involved with jingles, films, jazz and television. Lew was a saxophonist with the Saturday Night Live band from 1975-2005 and was also an arranger and contractor for the show. Del Gatto played with the Les Elgart Band, Sal Salvador and appeared with the world famous Johnny Carson Tonight Show Band. He played on such film soundtracks such as The Blues Brothers and The Naked Gun 2 ½ and has performed on the Grammy Awards and Emmy Awards on TV. He has recorded for such artists as Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin, Quincy Jones, Harry Connick Jr and the Brecker Brothers. Lew has appeared with many giants in the music world, including Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Liza Minelli, Buddy Rich, Herbie Hancock, Phil Woods and the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra. He is currently the co-bandleader and arranger for the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra. Also featured is NYC jazz trumpeter Dan Miller, who toured and recorded with Harry Connick Jr., Maynard Ferguson, Wynton Marsalis, Tom Jones and Woody Herman. The world-class rhythm section features pianist Jerry Stawski, bassist Paul Shewchuk and drummer Michael Piolet. The Jazzin’ It Up concert will benefit Footsteps to the Future, Inc., a unique mentoring program in Lee and Collier Counties and a model for change in Southwest Florida and the nation. Its goal is to empower young women in and aging out of foster care, to safely and successfully transition to living independently through programs such as evidence-based mentoring, self-sufficiency and advocacy. Celebrate with us as we promote our current pilot projects, the Academic Achievement and Tutoring Programs. The event will be held at Hodges University in North Naples off 1-75 exit 111. The Reception begins at 6:00 p.m. and the event also features a Silent Auction, a Mystery Box Raffle and a Decadent Dessert Raffle. Jerry Weldon (tenor saxophone) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Jeff Rupert (tenor saxophone) Dan Miller (trumpet) Jerry Stawski (piano) Paul Shewchuk (bass) Michael Piolet (drums) Saturday April 12, 2014 6:00 p.m. Hodges University 2655 Northbrooke Drive Naples, FL 34119 Directly East of I-75 and Immokolee Road (Exit 111) Tickets are $50.00 or two for $85.00 For Tables and info contact Judi Woods 239.281.7378 Footsteps to the Future, Inc. is a non-profit 501c (3). Sponsorship opportunities are available. Dan Miller with the UCF Jazz Ensemble and the UCF Jazz Professors October 25 - 26, 2013  I'm very excited be playing the Music of Tadd Dameron (On A Misty Night, Good Bait) and Dizzy Gillespie (Tin Tin Deo, Woody 'n You, Ray's Idea) with Jeff Rupert and the Univerity of Central Florida Jazz Ensemble on October 25th. I look forward to the clinic and concert as well as the opportunity to play with the UCF Jazz Professors featuring Jeff Rupert (tenor saxophone), Per Danielsson (piano), Richard Drexler (bass) and Marty Morell (drums). This will be swinging! Dan Miller with the UCF Jazz Ensemble and the UCF Jazz Professors Jeff Rupert (Director and tenor saxophone) Per Danielsson (piano) Richard Drexler (bass) Marty Morell (drums) University of Central Florida Communications Building Concert 8:00 p.m. Orlando, FL 32816 407-823-2869 Info: University of Central Florida Jazz website Dan Miller is a YAMAHA Clinician and Performing Artist Thanks to the YAMAHA Corporation for their assistance in making this event possible. The Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Sextet featuring NYC bassist Ben Wolfe and pianist Kenny Drew Jr. at the Arts Garage April 27, 2013 In what should prove to be an exciting evening of swinging music, I will be leading a group with Lew Del Gatto and the great bassist from NYC Ben Wolfe at the Arts Garage in Delray Beach, FL on April 27, 2013. We will be joined by some wonderful musicians including the great pianist Kenny Drew Jr., guitarist Dan Heck and drummer Ron Hefner performing a program of Thelonious Monk's music as well as original music from Ben's forthcoming release on the Max Jazz label. Dan Miller and Antonio Hart at the Southeastern University Jazz Festival April 22 - 23, 2013 I'm excited to join the great alto saxophonist Antonio Hart for two days of clinics and concerts at Southeastern University for their Jazz Festival. We will be working and performing with the Southeastern University Jazz Ensemble under the direction of John Seybert as well as top area high school jazz bands. Tickets and Information: Southeastern University Jazz Festival website Dan Miller - Lew Del Gatto Quintet with Jazz Legend Ira Sullivan March 9, 2013 Benefit Concert: Footsteps to the Future Presents Jazzin’ It Up! An Electrifying Evening with Jazz Legend Ira Sullivan Ira Sullivan (trumpet, flugelhorn, tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone and flute) Dan Miller (trumpet) Lew Del Gatto (tenor saxophone) Jerry Stawski (piano) Chuck Bergeron (bass) Ron Hefner (drums) Suzie Hulcher (vocals) Hodges University 2655 Northbrooke Drive Naples, FL 34119 Directly East of I-75 and Immokolee Road (Exit 111) (239) 513-1122 Tickets available at the door the day of the concert Saturday March 9, 2013 at 7:15 p.m. The VIP Reception to meet musicians begins at 6:00 p.m. General Admission at 6:45 p.m. Footsteps to the Future presents Jazzin’ It Up! An Electrifying Evening with Jazz Legend Ira Sullivan on Saturday March 9, 2013 at Hodges University in Naples, Florida. The concert, benefiting Footsteps to the Future, will feature Ira Sullivan along with some of the finest jazz musicians in Florida. Mr. Sullivan, a five-time Grammy nominee, is a unique figure in jazz music as a multi-instrumentalist who is a master of the trumpet, flugelhorn, tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone and flute. He has performed and recorded with some of the greatest figures in jazz history including Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Horace Silver, Red Rodney, Johnny Griffin and Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers. Mr. Sullivan, originally from Chicago, was an integral part of that city’s vibrant jazz scene during the 1950’s and ‘60’s. He has lived in Miami since the early ‘60’s and continues to tour the world performing concerts and teaching clinics. Music education is a very important part of Ira’s life. In addition to Sullivan, the concert also features tenor saxophonist Lew Del Gatto, who worked and recorded in NYC for over forty years and was a member of the Saturday Night Live Band from 1975 – 2005. Also featured is NYC jazz trumpeter Dan Miller, who toured and recorded with Harry Connick Jr., Maynard Ferguson, Wynton Marsalis, Tom Jones and Woody Herman. The world-class rhythm section features pianist Jerry Stawski, bassist Chuck Bergeron and drummer Ron Hefner. Singer/songwriter Susie Hulcher will be featured vocalist at the VIP reception. The Jazzin’ It Up concert will benefit Footsteps to the Future, Inc., a unique mentoring program in Lee and Collier Counties and a model for change in Southwest Florida and the nation. Its goal is to empower young women in and aging out of foster care, to safely and successfully transition to living independently through programs such as evidence-based mentoring, self-sufficiency and advocacy. Celebrate with us as we promote our current pilot projects, the Academic Achievement and Tutoring Programs. The event will be held at Hodges University in North Naples off 1-75 exit 111. The VIP Reception begins at 6:00 p.m. General Admission doors open at 7:00 p.m. The event also features a Silent Auction, a Mystery Box Raffle and a Decadent Dessert Raffle. VIP Tickets are $50, or two for $85 includes preferred seating, reception with a buffet featuring the culinary delights of Chef Brian Baker and Jayne Baker of the Roadhouse Cafe. Reserved VIP Tables …10 tops for $ 600 and 6 tops for $360 are available on a very limited basis General Admission Tickets are $25, or two for $45. Student Admission is $10. Tickets will go on sale Jan 1st 2013. Footsteps to the Future, Inc. is a non-profit 501c (3). Sponsorship opportunities are available. 2012 - 2013 ALL THAT JAZZ SERIES at the NAPLES PHILHARMONIC November 2012 - June 2013 After the great success of last two season's sold out series, the Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra returns for it's third season with an amazing lineup of internationally acclaimed guest stars. THE NAPLES PHILHARMONIC JAZZ ORCHESTRA Come hear the finest live jazz music in the region as the all-star Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra headlines this new series in the intimate setting of Daniels Pavilion. Each concert in All That Jazz will feature an esteemed special guest artist. Eight exciting programs (16 concerts) showcasing a variety of great jazz music! Luciano Morello (Executive Producer) The Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra is: Glenn Basham (coordinator and violin) Lew Del Gatto (co-bandleader and tenor saxophone) Jerry Stawski (co-bandleader and piano) Mike Harvey (drums) Kevin Mauldin (bass) Dan Miller (trumpet) The Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108-2740 (239) 597-1900 or (800) 597-1900 Each ALL THAT JAZZ event will have two nightly shows: 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. NOVEMBER JAZZ: RUSSELL MALONE November 26, 2012 (Monday) Russell Malone's first guitar was a plastic green toy his mother bought him. Only four years old, Malone strummed the little guitar all day long for days on end trying to emulate the sounds he had heard from guitarists at church in Albany, Georgia. As a child, Malone developed an interest in blues and country music after seeing musicians on television like Chet Atkins, Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, Roy Clark, Son Seals, and B.B. King. Then, at age 12, he saw George Benson perform with Benny Goodman on Soundstage. Malone has said, “I knew right then and there that I wanted to play this music.” A self-taught player, Malone progressed well enough to land a gig with master organist Jimmy Smith when he was 25. “It made me realize that I wasn't as good as I thought I was,” Malone recalls of his first on-stage jam with Smith. After two years with Smith, he went on to join Harry Connick Jr.'s orchestra, a position he held from 1990-94, appearing on three of Connick''s recordings. Malone also worked in a variety of contexts, performing with artists as diverse as Clarence Carter, Little Anthony, Peabo Bryson, Mulgrew Miller, Kenny Barron, Roy Hargrove, Branford and Wynton Marsalis, The Winans, Eddie “Cleanhead” Vinson, Bucky Pizzarelli, and Jack McDuff. Malone is one of the most commanding and versatile guitarists performing. He can move from blues to gospel to pop to R&B and jazz without hesitation, a rare facility that has prompted some of the highest profile artists in the world to call upon him: Diana Krall, Gladys Knight, Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, Natalie Cole, David Sanborn, Shirley Horn, Christina Aguilera, Harry Connick, Jr, Ron Carter, and Sonny Rollins.
I was also re-united with my old running parnter from Texas, tenor saxophionist Tim McCall. Tim was at North Texas when I went there and we had a quintet together with pianist Steve Snyder. Tim was leading the Friday late night session at Smalls and he asked me to join him on the gig while in town. This was made extra special due to the fact that my old friend Spike Wilner was playing gorgeous piano (as always). I also had the pleasure of hearing Spike's group with Ryan Kisor and Joel Frahm play the music of Hampton Hawes, which was a gas. Bobby Shew came to NYC on September 27th for the Yamaha Day of Jazz III which featured clinics by Bobby and trombonist Steve Turre at Yamaha Artist Services (689 5th Avenue). Keith Loftis (tenor saxophone) had his quartet there featuring the great Anthony Wonsey on piano and after the clinics, Bobby and Steve joined Keith's group for a beautiful concert. Afterwards we had a great dinner and hang with Bob Malone, Wayne Tanabe and Dave Lotozo of Yamaha. We then headed down to the Jazz Standard to hear the Tribute to Woody Shaw with Mulgrew Miller, Victor Lewis, Nick Roseboro, Enzana Edwards and Sean Jones. The event was part of Dave Douglas's Festival of New Trumpet Music and was organized by Woody's son, Woody III. We got to hang with the great George Cables most of he night as well. George was part of Bobby's quartet in California many years ago and they had a beautiful reunion. George led my small group for two years when I attended Bud Shank's Jazz Workshop in 1987 & 1988 (Bobby was teaching there as well) and it was so nice seeing him again. George is a phenomenal artist of great spirit and a true inspiration. I've known Bobby Shew for 25 years and not only is he one of the world's finest jazz trumpet players, he is my teacher, my mentor and my dear friend. What a tremendous evening! Photo: Dan with Bobby Shew, Dave Lotozo & Bob Malone of Yamaha NYC October 2008 On October 2, Ned and I went up to New Haven to play at the Owl Room with Ben Wolfe. It's a beautiful cigar bar in the heart of New Haven on the Yale campus. Ned's son Charles played drums and he's incredibly groovy. Ben is the most swinging person on the planet. This trip is always a blast because the music is always hooked up and Ben and Ginger always take us on a New Haven pizza tour. Owl Room Advertisement: Ben Wolfe Quartet October 2nd Most Wednesday nights were spent up at Showman's Lounge on 125th Street with Jerry Weldon's organ trio featuring Kyle Kohler and Greg Bandy. This is always an extremely fun night as the music is burning (Jerry is absolutely crushing) and it seems like Lou Donaldson and Grady Tate are always making the hang. New Content September 2008 I have recently updated the Gallery with new photos from some recent events including E.W.U. Trumpet Madness. In the Articles section, I've added a list of Jazz Quotations, a brief overview on Embouchure Building and posted three solo transcriptions to the the article on Freddie Webster. I've also updated the discography and revised the article I wrote a few years ago on Freddie Hubbard's Blue Note Years. It was written for the now-defunct Jazz Trumpet Journal. The J.T.J. was a tremendous Los Angeles-based magazine in the 1990's and it's existence was a true labor of love by it's publisher/editor Albert Balderas. I've also developed a Student Resources page featuring articles, essays, interviews, recordings, tune study compilations and listings of historical, critical, biographaphical and instructional books. Gallery Jazz Quotations Embouchure Building Student Resources Archive Freddie Hubbard: The Blue Note Years 1960-1965 Freddie Webster: The Best Sound On Trumpet Since Trumpet Was Invented Eastern Washington University Trumpet Madness May 7-10, 2008 I spent four days in Cheney, Washington participating in Eastern Washington University's annual Trumpet Madness event. The week featured clinics and concerts with myself, Vern Seilert and Byron Stripling. Andy Plamondon, EWU's trumpet professor, hosted an incredibly exciting and musical week. Vern Seilert, currently the professor of trumpet at the University of Idaho, and I attended North Texas State together and we were section mates in the Two O'Clock Lab Band under Jim Riggs. Vern's sound is gorgeous as ever and it was so much fun playing with him again. We both studied with the great Don Jacoby and traded some "Jake" stories while hanging out and catching up after the concert. Byron Stripling was a true inspiration. I first met Byron when he played lead for the Count Basie Orchestra. He always had time for young players with questions and he kindly and patiently answered every one until the bus was ready to depart. His fat sound and swinging musicality have been the hallmark of his playing for over 20 years. His motivational seminar was unlike any I've ever heard. His thoughts encompassed his outlook on life and the role of music in it. He focused on the level of dedication one must show in order to truly acheive our pursuits. His concert with the Spokane Jazz Orchestra was burning. He is in every sense of the word, an artist. My time was filled with private lessons, clinics (trumpet, wedge and improvisation), rehearsals, trumpet sectionals and concerts with the big bands and small groups. I enjoyed playing a very swinging quartet gig with the EWU faculty rhythm section comprised of Don Goodwin (piano), Michael Waldrop (percussion) and Brian McCann (bass) in a local club. The downbeat was a mere ninety minutes after I got off of my cross country flight and playing with these wonderful musicians re-energized me. The highlight of the clinics, for me, is always meeting and working with the diverse cross section of highly motivated young players. I love talking with them about who they're listening to and what they're practicing. EWU has a wonderful group of musicians under the guidence of Andy Plamondon. Not only is Andy a dedicated teacher and excellent trumpet soloist in both jazz and classical styles, he truly cares for his students and really fosters a family-like atmosphere in the trumpet department. Andy and his students were a joy to be around and I look forward to returning in the future. Special thanks to Rob Tapper, the head of EWU's jazz department, for making me feel so welcome. Larry Chamberlain at Yamaha was instrumental in making this week a success and re-connecting with him after a few years was great. Larry is an excellent ambassador for Yamaha and his knowledge and love for music is what makes him the best in the business. Photos from EWU Trumpet Madness can be found in the Gallery David Miller Masters Recital at Rutgers University April 22, 2008 My brother David completed his Masters Degree in Music at Rutgers University in May 2008. Dave assembled a group of old friends to perform at his recital and it was a wonderful weekend of music and fellowship. Dave wrote some great charts and the music was swinging tough! Dave completely burned. Playing with Ben and Ned is always a treat. Aaron's touch is so elegant and Rudy Royston swings like crazy. The post-concert party was a blast and was attended by family, friends and Dave's teachers including Stanley Cowell, Ralph Bowen and Conrad Herwig. Congratulations Brother! David Miller (trombone) Dan Miller (trumpet) Ned Goold (tenor saxophone) Ben Wolfe (bass) Aaron Weiman (piano) Rudy Royston (drums) Photos from the concert can be found in the Gallery Naples Jazz Festival February 15-16, 2008 High School & College Jazz Festival with Clinics and Adjudications Steve DeLadurantey, the Director of Bands at Golden Gate High School in Naples, organized the First Annual Naples Jazz Festival. It featured two days of clinics and concerts by college and high school jazz bands from all over the state of Florida. The adjudicators/clinicians included some old friends including trombonist Dante Luciani, with whom I was on Maynard Ferguson's Band. We went all over the world with Maynard that year including Europe, Japan and India. Dante is currently the professor of jazz trombone at the University of Miami where he also conducts the UM Concert Jazz Band. He is buring as ever and often works with Ira Sullivan. The fine tenor saxophonist Jeff Rupert is the director of jazz studies at the University on Central Florida in Orlando, and he's built an excellent program by bringing in world-class faculty. He spent a number of years in New York City playing with Lionel Hampton and getting his degree at Rutgers. Organist Jeff Phillips is a staple of the Orlando scene and was smoking on the B-3 walking pedals. We worked with high school and college bands all day and heard some excellent bands from all over the state. UCF brought it's top jazz ensemble as well as it's faculty small group which featured Jeff Rupert, pianist Per Danielsson, bassist Richard Drexler and drummer Marty Morrell of Bill Evans Trio fame. We closed the festival with a two-hour concert by the clinicians which was a blast. Playing with Marty Morrell was a gas and he's so swinging! This festival was a great success made so by the great efforts of the directors, band parents and students who worked very hard to start a jazz festival from scratch. Dan Miller (trumpet) Dante Luciani (trombone) Jeff Rupert (tenor saxophone) Jeff Phillips (B-3 organ) Marty Morrell (drums) University of North Florida October 30-31, 2007 Clincs and Dizzy Gillespie Tribute Concert I've known jazz trumpet player J.B. Scott for over 15 years. He was a featured soloist with the Dukes of Dixieland for a number of years and was a homegrown UNF grad himself, studying with Bruce Silva. He is a wonderful musician who currently leads the top jazz ensemble and teaches jazz trumpet at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville. We've talked about doing a clinic and concert at UNF for years and we finally found a date. I told J.B. that I wanted to do a concert of the music of Dizzy Gillespie. I've been playing many of the original Dizzy big band arrangements for years on clinics, but never an entire program. The top band at UNF was hot and featured a tremendous lead trumpeter in James Justice and an excellent tenor saxophone soloist in Chris Miller. J.B. arranged for a full Latin percussion rhythm section for Tin Tin Deo, Manteca and A Night In Tunisia. The two days were filled with trumpet lessons and clinics on the wedge and improvisation. The musicians at UNF are swinging and get their motivation from a world class faculty anchored by J.B., the legendary alto saxophonist Bunky Green, pianist Lynne Arielle, guitarist Barry Green and bassist Dennis Marks. Dennis and I were on Maynard's Band together traveling to Japan, Europe and India. Dennis had been teaching at the University of Miami in recent years, while traveling with Arturo Sandoval's band. He recently joined the faculty at UNF and after a little cajoling, he agreed to do Dizzy's feature for Ray Brown, One Bass Hit, with me and the big band. Dennis killed it, just fantastic. The trumpet students were very responsive to the wedge and the concepts of "the breath". There was great dialouge about the trumpet and jazz music and it was very refreshing to work with such focused young players. The night of the concert, the band burned the place down in front of a packed house at UNF's Boathouse. J.B. joined me on Birk's Works and A Night In Tunisia and he played his tail off. What a sound! It was also a great honor to spend time talking music with Bunky Green. Bunky was a part of that great 1950's-1960's Chicago scene with Ira Sullivan, Paul Serrano, Johnny Griffin, Clifford Jordan, John Jenkins, John Gilmore, Von Freeman, Jodie Christian, Don Garrett and Wilbur Campbell. His talk of the scene at that time made history truly come alive. What a tremendous pleasure. I look forward to returning as soon as possible. 12th Annual Jazz on the Green October 27, 2007 As part of an incredibly busy month, The Danny Sinoff Quartet performed at the 16th Annual Jazz on the Green. This weekend of music is not only the biggest jazz festival in SW Florida, but it's also a charity event which benefits The Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida. The 2007 edition featured performances by internationally popular stars Rick Braun, Richard Elliott, Jeff Golub, Walter Beasley and Acoustic Alchemy. The Danny Sinoff Quartet opened the Sunday concert before a festival sized crowd on an incredibly beautiful day. Special thanks to everyone involved with the production, especially the support staff and the sound crew who made the day very enjoyable. It was a pleasure to lend our music to this wonderful charity event. The Danny Sinoff Quartet: Danny Sinoff (piano and vocals) Dan Miller (trumpet) Jay Heavilin (bass) Ron Hefner (drums) Jazz Foundation of America 16th Annual Loft Party October 14, 2007 New York City I am honored to know Wendy Oxenhorn, the Director of the Jazz Foundation of America. She is selfless and has dedicated her life to tirelessly helping musicians and their families that are in need. The JFA has helped countless musicians and their families in need of medical assistance, housing assistance, legal aid and many other needs without reservation. Their work in New Orleans in the wake of Hurricaine Katrina, seemed overwhelming, but with Wendy at the helm, they helped hundreds find new housing, new instruments, new gigs in other cities and fufilled many needs. Wendy is an angel that walks among us and it's her boundless love and empathy for the artist and their plight, that drives her to achieve the goals of the JFA. I have been participating in events for the JFA with Danny Sinoff for over three years now. The Loft Party is the second biggest event for the JFA annually after the "A Great Night In Harlem" Apollo Theater concert. The 2007 Loft Party was moving to a much larger space that would feature three separate stages: jazz, vocal and solo piano. Danny and I were to work in the "vocal" loft backing up a variety of great singers with two separate rhythm sections: Dan Miller (trumpet) Danny Sinoff and Jon Weber (piano) Ben Wolfe and Carlo DeRosa (bass) Chris Brown and E.J. Strickland (drums) With such a stellar rhythm section line-up, this was guaranteed to swing like crazy. Playing with these guys was just beautiful. The featured vocalists included Danny Sinoff of course, also Gloria Lynne, Fay Victor, Jimmy Norman, Joe Lee Wilson, Stella Mars, and Pamela Luss. It was an incredible night of music, as between sets you could wander to the other rooms and hear Hank Jones, Jimmy Heath, Dr.Lonnie Smith, Randy Weston, Ben Riley, Benny Powell, Jason Moran, Eric Lewis, Bob Cranshaw and Davell Crawford in an endless parade of tremendous performances. It was a special night that I was proud to be a part of. 2007 Syracuse Jazz in the Square July 26-28, 2007 I had an incredible week performing with Danny Sinoff at the 2007 Syracuse Jazz in the Square. The group featured Anthony Pinciotti on drums and Carlo DeRosa on bass, and they were swinging like crazy. We played with the Syracuse Symphony on Thursday and did a quartet set on Saturday. The festival was loaded with appearances by incredible musicians including Hubert Laws, Phil Woods, Rufus Reid, Billy Drummond, Ralph Pendland, Gerald Albright and Dave Budway. We led the jam session on Thursday night and played the session on Friday and Saturday, which stretched past 3:00 a.m. each night. During our time there, we played with some tremendous musicians based in Syracuse including Jeff Stockham and Jesse Collins. This festival is run by the tireless and thoroughly dedicated Larry Luttinger, an excellent drummer, and spearheaded by jazz fan and patron of the arts Senator John DeFrancisco. Thanks to both of them for making this a fantastic weekend. The Danny Sinoff Quartet: Danny Sinoff (piano and vocals) Dan Miller (trumpet) Carlo DeRosa (bass) Anthony Pinciotti (drums) Photos from Jazz in the Square can be found in the Gallery courtesy of photographer John Herr. Here are two reviews from the Syracuse Post-Dispatch: Syracuse Post-Dispatch Thursday July 26, 2007 performance with the Syracuse Symphony Orchestra Jazzing It Up Downtown Friday, July 27, 2007 By Mark Bialczak When a 25-year-old singer and pianist with worlds of potential brings his talented quartet to the forefront, that's a very good thing. Florida native Danny Sinoff showed the crowd that's he's an absolutely killer piano player, and his vocals are pretty darn hot, too. With the wonderful Danny Miller on trumpet, Anthony Pinciotti on drums and Carlo De Rosa on bass, Sinoff demonstrated chops and charisma with the ballad "I Wish You Love" and the swinging "On the Street Where You Live" from "My Fair Lady." Miller stood out with muted trumpet on the former and full-bore horn work on the latter. Then Sinoff said: "You guys like Cole Porter? Me, too." He showed it with a fine version of "Love for Sale." Syracuse Post-Dispatch Saturday July 28, 2007 performance with the Quartet Allbright's Finale All Right: Sweet saxophone kisses Jazz in the Square good night Sunday, July 29, 2007 By Mark Bialczak Danny Sinoff and his band flipped through the pages of the Great American Songbook and found a wonderful ending. The 25-year-old vocalist and pianist earned two standing ovations. With Dan Miller on trumpet, Anthony Pinciotti on drums and Carlo De Rosa on bass backing him with style that screams big-time, Sinoff showed why he's earning comparisons with a guy from New Orleans who's pretty big in the pop singing biz. Yes, the young man from Florida sounds a lot like Harry Connick Jr. With a big voice, fast flurries on the piano and boyish charm, he won the crowd over with accessible versions of songs that have stood the test of time: "I Wish You Love," "Pennies from Heaven," "The Way You Look Tonight" and "September in the Rain" were bright and memorable. A good sign: Sinoff sounded just as good veering slightly from that well-traveled road with a quite lovely ballad "Stars Fell on Alabama" and sizzling, Sarah Vaughan-inspired "Teach Me Tonight." New CD Release 7.2007 I'd like to announce the release of a new CD with Danny Sinoff. This is the third cd that I've done with Danny, an excellent young vocalist/pianist with whose group I've been working with since August 2005. Ellington's Presents: The Danny Sinoff Quartet with special guest David 'Fathead' Newman was recorded in November 2006 and April 2007. This recording features the master of the Texas Tenor, David 'Fathead' Newman. Discographical information: Ellington's Presents; The Danny Sinoff Quartet featuring David 'Fathead' Newman Maynard Ferguson 1928-2006 I was shocked when Craig Johnson called to tell me of Maynard's sudden passing, as MF seemed completely invincible. I always pictured him like Zeus, sitting on top of a mountain throwing lightning bolts at down at us mere mortals. I was fortunate enough to travel the world with Maynard, and his energy and enthusiasm were boundless and infectious. Every single time he stepped on stage, Maynard was determined to deliver a performance that would be his best. To me, Maynard was first a hero, then a mentor and then a friend. I will miss his spirit more than anything. New CD Release 11.2006 I'd like to announce the release of a new CD with Danny Sinoff, an excellent young vocalist/pianist with whose group I've been working with since August 2005. The Danny Sinoff Quartet: Live at Ellington's Volume 2 was recorded live in May 2006 and features a special guest appearance by the incredibly soulful vocalist Jimmy Norman. Liner notes and discographical information: The Danny Sinoff Quartet: Live at Ellington's Volume 2 New MP3 Content There are many new MP3's on the site including a quartet recording featuring Ben Wolfe, Whitney Ashe and Anthony Pinciotti. I've also recently added music with Jon Weber, my brother Dave Miller's Sextet as well as excerpts from the new Danny Sinoff Quartet CD "Live At Ellington's: Volume 2". There are also excerpts of recordings with Wynton Marsalis, Tom Jones and Harry Connick Jr. New Content I have added a list of 200 Essential Small Group Jazz Recordings 1925-1975 to the articles section. I developed this list in response to numerous questions from students and teachers alike about what recordings to buy and how to start building a collection of great jazz records. |
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