I’ve been a freelance saxophone player for over 35 years and try to stay as busy as I can. I enjoy working with a wide variety of bands, and I’m comfortable filling in with bands I’ve never played with before. Years ago, when there was more work for live bands, I played at a lot of weddings, corporate events, and other private parties. Now I find myself playing most often in public at concerts and clubs. Occasionally I’ll do recording sessions and local productions of Broadway musicals. I also play regularly with some “rehearsal” bands during the week so I can keep challenging myself musically while playing with other dedicated musicians. When I’m home and not doing any of that, practice!
I’d like to thank all the bands that have given me the opportunity to play with them. I’m especially grateful for the support I’ve received from those who have welcomed me as a regular member and supported me in my musical journey.
Bands I play with regularly:
- The Berkshire Jazz Orchestra (lead alto, soprano sax, musical director) – the focus of this group is on concert-oriented big band music, featuring many classic arrangements from the repertoire of bands such as Stan Kenton, Buddy Rich, Woody Herman, Thad Jones, and many others. The band works hard to bring the most out of the music and really deserves to play out in public much more than it does.
- Best of the 70s (tenor, alto, and baritone sax) – a nostalgic, multi-media review show featuring classic rock and pop songs accompanied by a running video show featuring photos and film clips from the era. This group, led by Eric Herbst of the DizzyFish band, plays to sell-out audiences at larger concert venues such as the Oakdale Theater and Ridgefield Playhouse.
- Billy & the Showmen (alto and baritone sax) -funk, soul, Motown, rhythm & blues. Playing the music of Tower of Power, Average White Band, James Brown, Wilson Pickett, Blood, Sweat & Tears, and many more! The band originated in the Greenwich area and has been in existence since 1963!
- DizzyFish (soprano and tenor sax) – this band plays pop and rock from the ’70s era (no disco!). DizzyFish plays clubs, wineries, and outdoor shows. The larger version of the band playing theaters and other large venues is Best of the ’70s (see above).
- The Harold Zinno Jazz Orchestra – (tenor sax) – a classic jazz orchestra playing traditional arrangements from great bands such as Count Basie, Buddy Rich, etc. The band also often features a male or female vocalist.
- Kathleen Kruze & Friends (tenor & soprano saxes) – a talented guitarist and singer/songwriter, Kathy has a unique style and composes heart-felt, soul-stirring songs. Her music has jazz, blues, folk, and gospel influences, and she supports it with accomplished classical guitar technique. We often perform as a duo.
Bands I play with on a part-time or fill-in basis:
- Otis & the Hurricanes
- Naw’lins Beatnix
- The 5 O’Clocks
- Many other bands in Connecticut and the NY tri-state area that call on me as needed
Notable Past Performances – some of the more well-known bands, artists, venues, and festivals I’ve had the good fortune to play with, or at:
- The Temptations
- The Four Tops
- The Rascals
- Larry Chance & the Earls
- The Belmonts
- Larry Coryell
- Sal Salvador
- Brian Torff
- The Ridgefield Symphony Orchestra
- Bermuda Jazz Festival
- CBGB
- The Bottom Line
- The Peppermint Lounge
- The Cutting Room
- The Bitter End