Randy Reinhart, Trumpet

Michael Ponella, Trumpet

Jon-Erik Kellso, Trumpet

Jim Fryer, Trombone

Chuck Wilson, clarinet and sax

Andy Stein Violin, Baritone Sax,

Mark Lopeman, Tenor Sax, Clarinet, Soprano Sax

Dan Levinson, Alto Sax, Clarinet, Soprano Sax

Peter Yarin, Piano

Ken Salvo, Banjo, Guitar

Arnie Kinsella, Drums

Vince Giordano, string bass, tuba, bass sax

Born in Brooklyn and raised in Long Island, Vince Giordano began his long and illustrious music career at age five. At age 14, Vince joined the musicians union.  As the years passed, he became enamored with every instrument available to him. As a result, he has become a music virtuoso and mastering the art of playing many instruments. 

This afternoon was a wonderful example of his talent as a leader, musician, historian, crowd pleaser and friend to his fellow musicians and audience.

The beautiful auditorium was filled to capacity. The band looked strikingly handsome in their black tuxedos.  Lights lowered, the music began.  Music of the 1920’s filled the air and  it was difficult to sit still. 

One could imagine floating around a dance floor doing or watching the movement of the “Quick Step.”  Those were the days when people danced together and often times in competition.

Ponella, Wilson. Lopeman, Stein           I. Cowern photo

Here is a list of  some beautifully arranged and familiar songs I am certain everyone in the audience knew.

Dipper Mouth Blues

Limehouse Blues

Deep Harlem

She’s a Great, Great Girl

The Mooch

Rhapsody in Blue

I Found a New Baby

Midnight, the Stars and You

East of the Sun

Maple Leaf Rag

Chinatown

Avalon

I Would Do Anything for You

Medley from “Little Rascals”

Okay Baby

Beautiful Changes

Tiger Rag

These Foolish Things

Nagasaki

(Encore) Good Old Days

                                                     Ed Ohr photo

Jim Fryer entertained us several times with his Euphonium expertise…..as did Andy Stein with his Violin and Baritone Sax.

Andy Stein

Arnie Kinsella       Ed Ohr photos

Adding to the delight of everyone, Dan Levinson, Mark Lopeman and Chuck Wilson wowed us with their Megaphones (missing was Rudy Vallee);  Peter Yarin (piano) and Arnie Kinsella (with his vintage drums) portraying unique artistic technique, playing with the band versus against it.

Megaphones          Ed Ohr photo

And who could not appreciate the three guys “quietly” waiting for their turn to be heard.  Our dear, Jim Fryer, Michael Ponella and Randy Reinhart.   To the delight of those who love the Banjo, we were entertained by Ken Salvo.

Reinhart, Levinson, Ponella, Wilson, Fryer, Lopeman     I. Cowern photo

Always, front and center, we had our dear leader, Vince, on his ever famous “Silver Bass,” Tuba, Bass Saxophone and vocals.  Adding to his already endless talent, Vince gave us the history (with charm and wit) of each and every song played.  He never seems to tire entertaining his audience. 

When the audience returned after the break, Vince asked the audience for questions and requests.  Some of the songs are listed here.  Avalon is one….A bit of trivia about Avalon (1920) …. by Jolson, DeSylva and Rose.  The Opening melody was taken from Puccini’s aria Elucevan le stella from the opera Tosca.  

Levinson, Wilson, Lopeman            I. Cowern photo

Levinson, Wilson, Lopeman, Stein      Ed Ohr photo