Mario's Place Live Jazz Entertainment and Calendar of Events

Katherine Prouse comes from a very musical family. she began singing at a very early age when her father was pastoring a small church in Riverside, CA. Her Father, Steve Prouse, is a very gifted pianist himself and introduced Katherine to vocalists such as the Carpenters, Linda Rondstadt and Barbara Streisand. She quickly gravitated to jazz legends such as Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and Nina Simone.

Katherine began singing professionally at the age of 27 (November 2001). Heavily influenced by such incredible Jazz vocalists such as Diana Krall, Etta James and Casandra Wilson, she sang every weekend in coffee shops, restaurants and bars in Orange County, Los Angeles and the Inland Empire. She gained recognition for winning the "Best Jazz" award at the 2003 Orange County Music Awards.

Katherine is growing more mature and confident as a Jazz vocalist. She has a deep appreciation for the music of the 20's, 30's, and 40's. Jazz seems to be taking all new forms and shapes in today's musical climate. Katherine really enjoys bringing back the romance of the standards, and also the aesthetics of the time period.

"A Traditional Jazz Player" Fred has played with Al Jarreau, Freddie Hubbard, Oscar Brown Jr. & Ron Carter to name a few.

THE RON KOBAYASHI TRIO Ron and his band have shared the stage with such notable artists as David Benoit, Eddie Palmieri, Cirque Du Soleil, Strunz and Farah and The Fabulous Thunderbirds.
The Trio has played numerous jazz festivals including The San Bernardino Music Festival, The Orange County Art and Jazz Festival, The Yorba Linda Arts Festival, The Dana Point Jazz Festival, The Mission Viejo Music Festival and the Playboy Jazz Summerfest in Pasadena. They have also worked in Laughlin, Nevada; Las Vegas, Nevada; and Orlando, Florida.
In 2002, Ron served as Music Director for the 10th Annual Hollywood Diversity Awards, where such stars as "The Rock," Michael Clarke Duncan and the cast of NBC's "West Wing" were honored.

Tracks from the Trio's discs are currently being used by DMX Music in retail and hotel chains across the country.

"The latest Ron Kobayashi Trio CD "No Preservatives" is currently being played on radio stations throughout the nation. Their earlier disc "Exotic Places" made the "Top 30 Albums" in 1998 on radio station KSBR. In 1996, the Trio was voted "Best Jazz Group in Orange County" by readers of the Orange County Weekly Magazine.

"If you define jazz...as spontaneity, emotional expression and communication among musicians, you won't find anything better than "No Preservatives," raves the Orange County Register.
The LA Jazz Scene calls the disc a "five star session."

Pianist and leader Ron Kobayashi has performed with Mel Torme, Margaret Whiting, Eric Marienthal, Phil Upchurch, Teddy Edwards, Tim Weisberg, Kenny Burrell, Paula Kelly Jr., Herb Jeffries, Peter White and "The Modernaires," He was a featured performer on the internationally distributed "Johnny Yune" television show, and has been featured on the CBS Evening News with Dan Rather. In 1992, Ron performed for President Bill Clinton and has recorded as a solo artist for the Casierra Record label.

Bassist and composer Baba Elefante was voted one of the nation's top bass players in a Bass Player Magazine poll. He also performed on the 1995 Universal movie "The Hunted," as well as with jazz trumpeter Roy Hargrove, saxophonists Pete Christlieb and Brandon Fields, Justo Almario, "Yes" keyboardist Patrick Moraz and "Kansas" lead vocalist John Elefante.

Drummer Steve Dixon has done numerous recording sessions both as a drummer and percussionist. He has worked with jazz saxophonist Richie Cole, "War" harmonica legend Lee Oskar, Bill Watrous and Warner Brothers recording artists "The Untouchables."

Matt Baldoni holds a Bachelor's Degree from CSU Chico in classical guitar and graduate studies in Studio/Jazz guitar from USC. Matt's live performance credits include Mindi Abair, Keiko Matsui, Ronnie Laws, Lao Tizer, Arrested Development, and being the musical director and guitarist for "The NFL Show" on Fox Sports. Studio credits include movies like "School of Rock" and "Van Helsing", television shows like "Kim Possible" and "Malcolm in the Middle", and jingles for Ace Hardware, Cingular Wireless, Nike, and Acura. Matt is on the adjunct faculty at Musician's Institute in Hollywood and has endorsements with Gibson guitars, Mesa Boogie amplifiers, GHS strings, and Levy's Leather. Matt's own blend of music draws from the traditions of jazz, blues, rock and funk and is heavily influenced by the great Los Angeles guitarists of generations before him, such as Larry Carlton, Lee Ritenour, Steve Lukather, and Mike Landau.

Cross-Effect has an ambitious goal. Their quest is to become “The Beatles of Jazz.” Having been together since January 1997, Cross-Effect has a style that is uniquely their own, neo-soul/jazz.

The ambitious style touches all formats of instrumental music, and this propels them beyond the limits of a traditional jazz combo.

Leading off the cast is the talented Allen Mascari on tenor sax. Allen writes, and studied music at Youngstown State University in the early 90’s for six years under the brilliant direction of Tony Leonardi. The list of performers he has accompanied reads like the Who’s Who in music. They include Chuck Mangione, James Moody, Bobby Shew, Bob Mintzer, and Lew Tebackin. Add to the list the Temptations and the Glenn Miller Orchestra and you have quite a distinguished bunch. Not surprising, he has been awarded the Certificate for Best Jazz Performance

The gifted Gershom Byass is on keyboards. He writes, and studied both music and engineering at West Indies College in Kingston, Jamaica. He performed with that school’s symphonic ensemble. Touring with various bands ranging from reggae to gospel to jazz, Gershom became a talented musician with a wide and varied background. Gershom is a perfect fit for the rigorous and challenging goal of Cross-Effect.

As the newest and youngest member of CROSS-EFFECT, CJ; aka “Mr. Pocket,” brings a soulful flavor to the group. He began his musical journey playing the drums in church. He eventually moved on to pursue his musical career where he studied various styles from funk, fusion, jazz and R&B. As a musician, CJ is acclaimed by his peers. However, he is a humble soul and thanks God for his talent.

The second newest member of the group adds a guitar dimension to an already talented band. With the lyrical ability of Larry Carlton and the soulful edge of Jimi Hendrix, guitarist Kurt Dohy. Kurt started playing drums at age 4 and took drum lessons later on. Then his family moved and the drums didn't, so he took up guitar. He learned the solo from the Allman Brothers "Jessica", and the rest is history. Studied at Dick Grove School of Music and at GIT back in the day. He has done many recording sessions with varied artists, including Jimmy Messina, and have toured with many artists throughout North and South America and also played in original bands "Decomecca" and "The Dreamers".

Last, but certainly not least, is the founder of Cross-Effect, bassist Dante Fire. The imaginative Dante is the executive producer, organizer, and marketer for the group. In his spare time he plays bass, and, like the others, composes music for the group’s CD’s. Trained in classical music and jazz as a child, Dante studied music theory and record production under the direction of Dr. Eurydice Osterman at Oakwood College. Continuing his studies, he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business and Management from the University of Redlands in California. He is currently working on his MBA at the University of Phoenix. He has performed with the talented Leo Clark, as well as Rapper Ice T, Words of Mouth, and various other artists from jazz to rock to rap. It is the versatile Dante who set the lofty, but easily attainable, goal for Cross-Effect – to become The Beatles of Jazz.

Shawn Jones began winning over audiences with his unique blend of exceptional singing, songwriting, and guitar playing at a very young age. Shawn has become a popular fixture in the California Southland and in Nashville, with forays as far afield as Europe.

Most recently Shawn’s song “Invincible Me” was featured in the 100th episode of “Dawson’s Creek” on the Fox Network. Jones and his band made a cameo appearance in the Fine Line Pictures release, "Tumbleweeds", starring Golden Globe winning actress, Janet McTeer. Two of his songs, "Long Way Down" and "Lightning Strike Me Down" are heard in the movie and the barn-burning single "Long Way Down" has been included on the RCA/Victor soundtrack album. Other artists on the album include: Johnny Cash, Lyle Lovett, Buck Owens, Emmylou Harris and Lucinda Williams. Shawn's song, "Lightning Strike Me Down" was also selected for the Hollywood Pictures film, "Mystery Alaska".

"I grew up influenced by my favorite rock guitarists, Clapton and Hendrix", says Shawn, "though my father raised me on Hank Sr. and Waylon Jennings." Waylon instantly became a fan of Shawn's after seeing him play one night in Los Angeles. "The first time I saw him", said Waylon, "it was just Shawn and a guitar in a small room and he was drawing that music out of every fiber of himself. It was obvious to me that he is a world-class singer, writer and musician all wrapped into one." Waylon was so impressed with Shawn's talent that he invited him to play on his 1996 release "Right For The Time" and at Willie Nelson's 1996 Fourth of July Picnic. Waylon also asked Shawn to play lead guitar in his band for the record-breaking 1996 Lollapalooza Tour. Shawn shared "main stage" with headliners: Metallica, Soundgarden and the Ramones appearing in front of in excess of 30,000 fans. Shortly thereafter in 1997, Shawn was invited to Frankfurt, Germany to play guitar, arrange, and Co-produce the debut album for the artist “Emma” on MCA Records/Germany.

The unconditional acceptance of Waylon at Lollapalooza exemplified to Shawn that, however diverse; music speaks to all people. "I had always written and performed, but after that experience I was able to carve out my own niche", says Shawn.

After his stint with Waylon and his trip to Germany, Shawn spent some time in both Nashville and Los Angeles writing with some of the music industry's top writers and artists. While in Nashville, Shawn met CMA Winner and two -time Grammy Winner, Steve Wariner and they immediately became friends. Shawn & Steve wrote and recorded a song together in Steve's studio soon after. The mysterious ballad, "So Here I Am", a song in which Wariner makes a guest appearance, is the fourth track on Shawn's debut album "Natural Soul". The song went on to place 3rd (out of 3,000) in the John Lennon International Songwriting Competition in 1999.

Other songwriting partners include:
Jimmy Scott ~ (Grammy Winner / Bonnie Raitt)
   Dennis Walker ~ (3 time Grammy Winner / Robert Cray Band)
       Danny Wilde ~ (singer, songwriter, producer / The Rembrandts)
  Jeff Carter ~ (singer, songwriter, guitarist / Deana Carter)

Shawn and his band mates have been working in excess of 250 dates a year, creating new fans and followers everywhere they perform. Shawn has just completed his second album project titled, “Little Dreams” with co-producer Alan Mirikitani. Now residing in Nashville, Shawn's combination of undeniable talent and heart felt emotion make him one of the most compelling new artists on today's music scene.

Matt Otto-Tenor Saxophone
Larry Koonse-Guitar
Ryan Mcgillicutty-Acoustic Bass
Jason Harnell-Drums

Toured the United States, Europe, Australia, and the Orient with Maynard Ferguson as a member of his Big Bop Nouveau band. Recorded CD with Maynard entitled “These Cats Can Swing” on Concord Jazz Records, released in 1994. (1992-1994)

Toured the United States and Japan with contemporary jazz recording artist, Keiko Matsui. Recorded live performance video with Keiko entitled “Light Above the Trees,” also appeared on Black Entertainment Television’s Jazz Central and on PBS’ Live Performances. (1997-1999)

Currently performing in and around Los Angeles with such artists as Ron Stout, David Goldblatt, Steve Cotter, Darek Oles, Kei Akagi, Jack Sheldon, Tamir Hendelman, and Steve Tavaglione as well as leading two groups of his own; one with Larry Koonse and Joe Bagg, the other with Matt Otto and Jamie Rosenn.

Recent CD recordings include Matt Otto Quartet: Intellection, Lulee Fisher: Get Happy, and Steve Venz: Scoop. Other recordings include a national Verizon commercial (composed and performed), a national Cheeto’s spot and music for the cartoon “Chalk Zone”.

Hosted clinics and workshops all over the world with Maynard Ferguson. Instructed and arranged for high school drumline and percussion ensemble as well as for drum corps. Have been teaching privately since 1987. Currently seeing between ten and fifteen students a week.

Studied privately with Hank Belson, Vinnie Colaiuta, Tom Glaister, Larry Goldings, Jeff Hamilton, John Hernandez, Joe LaBarbera, Shelly Manne, Bob McCormick, Joe Porcaro, Wally Snow, Dave Weckl, and Dick Wilson.

Endorsements: Currently endorsing Yamaha Drums, Bosphorus Cymbals, Remo Drumheads, Vic Firth Drumsticks and Rhythm Tech Percussion Products. Have been profiled in several nationwide publications such as Modern Drummer Magazine, DRUM Magazine, and National Drum Association.

The Seventh Avenue was formed in February of 2001, when five people met to jam for just one hour. Everyone there felt something magical happening.

After that session they were determined to keep that magic alive. The instantaneous chemistry pushed each member to prepare for their up and coming show at Chapman University. The show was a total success filled with soulful harmonies, jazzy chords, and funky rhythms from the past and present. It was official!

Following the success of their first show, the Seventh Avenue (also known for their musical therapy) went on to perform in different cities like: Fontana—at the Cedar House Recovery Center and Sierra Lakes; Redlands—Jazz & Java; San Bernardino— Westside Pit Restaurant, Patton State Hospital; the Natural Sciences Commencement for the past five years at California State University at San Bernardino; Summertime Concerts; Homeless Care Fare for the community of San Bernardino, Costco Wholesale annual party, and Ray’s Downtown Deli. The group has also made collaborative efforts over seas in Bosnia and Korea; Ontario— Phi-Beta parties at the Double Tree Hotel, Compton—Unity Festival (sharing the stage with the memorable bands like Tierra, Cameo and Lakeside), Riverside— The Downtown Supper Club.

Vocally lead by Lisa Maguinez, Tameron Ginae and Carles Abraham, directively lead by Gary Henderson, deeply under toned by the bassing of Paul Henderson, and glued together by powerful drumming of Harold Allen Jr. The Seventh Avenue is a band lead by the inspiration music.

Daniel Hill--Drums
Joel Paat--Keyboards
James Lewis--Bass
Paul Mcdonald--Sax
Alicia koch--Guitar

Introducing LIKE MINDS, a group of talented musicians dedicated to playing the best in live jazz. The music of some of the greatest jazz composers is what LIKE MINDS has built it's sound on. Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, these are only a few of the giants that inspire their sound. LIKE MINDS chooses to play in their tradition, and still has a fresh approach. Formed in 2001 by local Riverside drummer Dan Hill, the band has steadily made a name for itself.

Saturday, April 30th will be LIKE MINDS debut performance at Mario's Place. Please join us for a night of great music and great food.

Tony Palkovic - Guitar
Kofi Baker - Drums
Baba Elefante - Bass
Brian Sanders - Sax

TONY PALKOVIC has been playing the guitar since the age of twelve and he has been a jazz guitarist/composer for over 27 years. TONY has been praised by the prestigiuos Guitar Player Magazine and his albums have been heard in the U.S. and in other countries. He has played in concert halls, clubs and festivals headlining and also sharing the bill with artists from Jeff Lorber with Kenny G to Richard Elliott to the legendary Weather Report. He has appeared on the BET television network.

ESOTERIC is the name of TONY's new album. On the AP label. It features pianist/keyboard genious PATRICK MORAZ (REFUGEE,YES and THE MOODY BLUES) and sax player KRYS MACH (best known for his work with LEVEL 42).

Tony hosts his own jazz radio show which is heard in the Greater Los Angeles/Southern California area. The show features guest interviews and live performances. Heard on 88.7 FM.

The other cats playing are:
Jiro Plutschow - bass
Eldad Tarmu - vibes
Brad Eliot - drums

Biography

Peter Curtis is a guitarist, composer and singer. He has performed or recorded jazz with notable musicians including Seamus Blake, Don Braden, Lynn Arriale, Ron Westray, Taj Mahal, James Carter, Claudia Acuna, Gene Bertoncini, Barbara Morrison and Freddy Cole. He performs at some of the top jazz venues in the Los Angeles area including Spazio and The Jazz Bakery. He has played throughout Europe at jazz venues including A-Trane in Berlin, Sounds in Brussels, Reduta in Prague, Studio Des Islettes in Paris, The Gig in Zurich and the Lamantin Jazz Festival in Hungary. In addition, he has appeared in Carnegie Hall and on BET.

As a classical guitarist Mr. Curtis has given recitals in the U.S. and Canada and was awarded the Andres Segovia memorial scholarship from the Banff Centre for the Arts. Some of his arrangements for classical guitar have been performed by guitarists as far abroad as Australia.

Since February of 2001, he has been a full-time faculty member at Riverside Community College where he teaches applied jazz and classical guitar, jazz improvisation and directs the guitar ensemble.

He received his Bachelor of Music degree Magna Cum Laude from the Berklee College of Music, a Masters of Music degree from Yale University, and is currently finishing his Doctor of Music in Classical Guitar Performance and Literature with minor fields in Ethnomusicology and Music History from Indiana University.