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Sandro’s musical journey has taken him to prestigious venues and festivals worldwide, where he has shared the stage with renowned artists and collaborated with esteemed musicians. His compositions showcase a rich tapestry of sonic textures, intricate melodies, and captivating rhythms that transport listeners to new sonic landscapes.
During his time at university, Sandro Norton studied with the likes of Mike Outram, Shaun Baxter, Ian Scott (Beach Boys), Phillip Mead (George Crumb), Dave Cliff (Lee Konitz), and Eddie Harvey (Ella Fitzgerald). He also studied privately with Charlie Banacos, Eric Roche, Dr. Barry Harris, Jonathan Kreisberg, and Vicki Genfan. Over time, Sandro Norton established himself as a session musician working in TV, orchestra, and theatre music. His work portfolio includes film soundtracks, television theme tunes, and studio work in pop, blues, and jazz. He has also appeared in more than 100 national TV shows and played crowds as large as 50,000 people. He is currently performing his solo album Flying High… At the heart of it and leads his own band featuring Gary Burton on vibraphone.
In addition to leading his own bands, Sandro Norton has shared the stage and studio not only with the heroes and great peers mentioned above but also with the likes of Gary Burton, Barry Harris, Randy Brecker, Ian Anderson, Pip Williams, Bias, Vasilis Xenopoulos, Mario Barreiros, Carlos Barreto, Maria João, and Filipe Raposo and more.
Sandro Norton regularly performs in the top jazz venues and major festivals across the country and around the world. As an educator, he has established jazz programs in addition to presenting workshops for students of all ages.
Denise Donatelli, a three-time GRAMMY® nominated vocalist, presents her latest album, “Whistling in the Dark – The Music of Burt Bacharach.” Released on August 27, 2021, this remarkable project showcases Denise’s lifelong love affair with the legendary songwriter’s music. Produced by the renowned Larry Klein, the album marks Denise’s first concept album dedicated to a single composer and highlights her exceptional collaboration with Klein.
Recorded live at The Village Studios in Los Angeles in October 2020, the album captures Denise’s warm vocal elegance accompanied by a hand-picked all-star jazz/pop quartet. The quartet includes Larry Goldings on piano and organ, Anthony Wilson on guitar, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, and Larry Klein himself on bass and additional keyboards.
“Whistling in the Dark” presents an intimate and soulful collection of Bacharach’s iconic hits, as well as some lesser-known gems. Denise breathes new life into classics like “The Look of Love” and brings her own interpretation to Warwick’s renowned songs such as “Walk On By,” “In Between the Heartaches,” “Anyone Who Had a Heart,” and “A House is Not a Home.” The album also features collaborations with Elvis Costello on poignant tracks like “Toledo” and “In the Darkest Place.”
Denise’s artistic journey leading up to this project has been shaped by her passion for jazz. Growing up in Allentown, PA, she fell in love with the genre, drawing inspiration from vocalists like Nancy Wilson, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, and Ella Fitzgerald. After launching her singing career in Atlanta in the early 90s, Denise moved to Los Angeles in 2000, immersing herself in the vibrant music community.
Throughout her career, Denise has collaborated with esteemed musicians and earned recognition for her exceptional talent. Her previous albums with producer/pianist Geoffrey Keezer garnered four GRAMMY nominations, including three for Best Jazz Vocal Album. In 2012, she was honored as Jazz Vocalist of the Year by The Los Angeles Jazz Society. Known as a “musician’s singer,” Denise’s innate musicianship and pure tone have captivated audiences and led to various notable performances, including appearances on “The Simpsons” and TV promos for popular shows and brands.
Denise’s connection to the American Heart Association holds a special place in her heart, honoring the memory of her son.
