I have performed in Pittsburgh many times with Tony Campbell, Larry Estes, and before them Jimmy Ponder, Gene Ludwig & assorted R&B bands. Larry has played with me in State College and recorded with me. Luther DeJarunette and Duane Dolphin also played with me in State College and Jean Tate sings with my band whenever she's feeling feisty. I brought many Pittsburgh musicians to perform at University Park for the Penn State Jazz Club, including Ahmad Jamal, Jimmy Ponder, Sal Samba, TC's Jazz Surgery and Roger Humphries' Big Band. My friends Larry and Tony and Nelson Harrison make me feel like an honorary Pittsburgh musician - and it is indeed an honor.
Favorite Pittsburgh musicians/performers
Tony Campbell, Larry Estes, Nelson Harrison, Duane Dolphin, Roger Humphreys, Howie Alexander, and R.I.P. Jimmy Ponder, Gene Ludwig and Luther DeJarunette
About Me:
I play soprano, tenor and bari sax, flute, and compose music and lyrics. I sing my own material as well as a few favorite standards and pop/rock tunes (the new standards) but am always inspired when I have the pleasure of working with a real singer. Besides the Pittsburgh musicians mentioned above, I've also played and recorded with Ronnie Burrage, Marvin Horne, Stanley Banks, Greg Bandy, Duane Eubanks, Mike Boone, Adam Faulk, Okyerema Asante, the late great Sid Simmons, Dr E., and my daughter AeB. I am Associate Professor of Mathematics at Penn State University and faculty advisor of the Penn State Jazz Club and Chess Club. I have 3 grown daughters. AeB is a professional musician in L.A., a voting member of the Recording Academy (Grammys), and a regular collaborator of guitarist Robby Krieger of THE DOORS. AeB writes her own material and sings, plays flute, sax, keyboards, guitars, & percussion. Check out her website. My oldest Keely and youngest Grace have settled in New Orleans. Keely is in finance and is active in affordable housing and other civic issues. Grace is a budding neuroscientist, having recently finished her Masters at Tulane University. My wife Caryl of 34 years is a nurse and activist in the single payer healthcare movement. When I'm not visiting clubs in Pittsburgh, Philly or NY, I play in State College with Urban Fusion, a band I've been with for over 30 years, and as a sideman with numerous singer/songwriters, and solo or with ad hoc duos, trios, quartets, etc. I am hoping to find a big band to play with - especially on baritone.
Chris Byrne
State College, PA
United States
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