Billy Courtman grew up in Brooklyn. As a child, people were always
asking him what he wanted to be when he grew up. But Billy never wondered.
As far as he knew, he was already doing it; singing around the house,
making up songs, and harmonizing with his twin brother, Bobby. Noticing every musical note that was in the air was all there was,
or needed to be.
That was until he heard the blues. It was then that he asked the eternal
question: "How can people play with such passion and emotion, bearing
their very soul in such a magical way?"
That question began a journey that continues to this day, with
every step in search of the answer.
On Billy's journey, one on which he's played guitar, saxophone
and violin as well as singing, he's worked with Chuck Berry, The
Brooklyn Blues Busters, James Cotton Blues Band, Edgar Winter and
Cyndi Lauper.
He strongly feels that studying with jazz piano legend Lennie Tristano
was one of his most profound experiences. It was Tristano who taught
Billy that "if you don't mean it, don't play it." In truth, the
words he spoke were "acupuncture and out." In other words, "make
your point and split!"
Billy remains a highly respected and sought after player on the
New York scene, leading groups of varying configurations. He has
performed live for countless celebrities including the last three
U.S. Presidents.
An avid songwriter, Billy keeps his skills fresh by working with
young musicians, both teaching actively and producing recording
artists in his studio.
To this day, other people may wonder what Billy wants to be when
he grows up; fortunately, Billy never does!
Jeff Ganz
Every great musician has their own sound, and can be identified
within just a few notes. Jeff Ganz is no exception. His signature
style provides propulsive accompaniment on both bass and drums.
Driven by his love of music and the need to perform, he began
a lifelong quest to lead the ultimate band when he began performing
professionally as a guitarist/vocalist in the Hendrix/Clapton tradition
at the age of fourteen.
By 20, Jeff wanted a new musical challenge and made the decision
to master the bass. Jeff's goal was simple: he wanted to be the
first-call guy in every possible musical genre. He didn't stop with
the traditional upright bass; he also mastered the fretted and fretless
4, 5, 8, and 12-string electric bass, as well as the piccolo bass
guitar.
Since then, Jeff has toured and recorded with such legends
as Johnny Winter, Roy Buchanan, John Lee Hooker, Gerry Mulligan,
Tito Puente, Chuck Berry, and Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes.
And, because of his ability to provide the perfect accompaniment
in any situation, his resume reads like a who's who of popular American
music in the 20th century. Jeff has occupied the bass chair on television,
in concert and on many CDs, building a thirty-plus year reputation
as a first-call bassist.
Still based in the New York area, Jeff is busy with various solo
projects,
co-leads Wang Dang and Tuxedo Parc, is a member of TorQue, and continues
to guest with internationally known acts.
(more
about Jeff on his website)