Capital Jazz Fest Challenge winner, Marcus Anderson electrifies stages with an unmatchable energy and an intoxicating sound that stretches the definition of jazz. The multi-talented saxophonist, flautist and vocalist from Durham, NC recently released his second solo CD, From The Heart, a much anticipated follow up to My Turn – his stellar debut project. Marcus Anderson is widely recognized for his natural ability to entertain. He quickly became a first call saxman to perform within groups like Pieces of a Dream and Four80East. Marcus has also been invited to perform with or open for Kirk Whalum, Gerald Albright, George Duke, Everette Harp, Alex Bugnon, Nenna Freelon, Bob Baldwin, Ledisi, Layla Hathaway and many others. With the release of his new album, he is now packing out his own headlining shows at notable jazz venues like Blues Alley in DC, the 2009 Capital Jazz Fest National Challenge Competition and earned a spot on the Capital Jazz Super Cruise. “For me, it’s about the crowd”, said Anderson, “I feed off their energy.”
Will Donato has performed with some of the best known musicians of the gnere, namely Al McKay of Earth, Wind, and Fire, Bruce Conte of Tower of Power, Steve Reid of The Rippingtons, Steve Oliver, Greg Karukas, and Nick Colionne. Will Donato has worked outside the contemporary jazz genre as well, most notably with Gerald Levant, Toni Childs, and Richard Marx. Donato can also be hear on the sound tracks from Thelma and Louise, The Wedding Planner, Under the Boardwalk, and No Man's Land and he's recognized as one of music's most dynamic performers.
