ith a sound all its own,
DekaJaz,
a fresh
new
ten piece jazz ensemble is bursting onto the Los Angeles jazz scene.
DekaJaz is co-led by Los Angeles Jazz Society winner saxophonist Scheila
Gonzalez, trumpet artist Glenda Smith, and drummer/arrange Megan Foley, who came
together in the winter of 1999 with one goal in mind – making music.
The band is
comprised of some of the finest young players in town including Los Angeles Jazz
Society winner Steve Gregory on guitar, and Cleveland native, bassist Sherry
Luchette. The saxophone section
includes Sharon Hirata on tenor and Jennifer Hall on baritone.
The brass section finds Dr. Lori Stuntz on trombone and trumpeter Lee
Thornburg. This fabulous melding of
talent, raw energy and a vast array of musical experiences gives DekaJaz a sound
you won’t soon forget.
In addition to
the players, the band has called up the writing and arranging talents of Rick
Lawn, Dan Higgins, Jack Cooper, Paul McKee, and Tom Kubis. Working with such a diverse group of players and
composer/arrangers give a vibrant and exciting flavor to music steeped in
tradition – a tradition that will be carried on for years to come.
DekaJaz comes out swinging hard and brimming with energy.
Its fiery intensity tempered with laid-back cool, as well as its
commitment to the music makes DekaJaz a force to be reckoned with.
Since its debut performance at Cal State L.A. in the spring of 2000, the
ensemble has performed at numerous venues including Catalina Bar and Grill.
It’s only a matter of time before DekaJaz explodes onto the national
and international scene.