New Orleans Banjos Alive In New Orleans 2006 CD

Joan Pizzolato/Plectrum Banjo/Vocals - Mrs. Pizzolato has always loved music. Joining the ukelele club as a senior in high school was the first sign of her interest in stringed instruments. After marrying and having 3 children, she and her friends would together take all kinds of lessons: golf, modelling, tennis, etc. Then Joan got the idea to take Banjo lessons. John Chaffe was her first and only instructor about 45 years ago and you can say that she has never looked back. She now has had many students of her own through the years, and her rhythmic and lead banjo playing is truly impressive.Avery Stirratt/Plectrum Banjo/Vocals - Mr. Stirratt has been playing the banjo since before his college days. It could be said that music is in his genes as his parents were also musicians as well as his son (Plays electric bass with the band WILCO) and daughter. For many years he played with John Chaffe. He is a banjo player nonpareil, providing lead, rhythm, and vocals - a truly important contribution to the New Orleans Banjos + 2. Emmett Smith/Tenor Banjo - A longtime musician and lover of traditional jazz, Mr. Smith studied under the legendary banjoist John Chaffe, and is the spokesman for the New Orleans Banjos + 2. The higher "tenor" sound of his banjo and his instinctive ability to play by ear provides a rhythm which complements the overall sound of the group. Robert Deane/6 String Banjo Guitar/Harmonica/Vocals - After retiring a few years ago Mr. Deane picked up a 6-String banjo (guitar-tuned) and has not stopped since. He is a versatile musician providing multiple dimensions to the overall sound of the New Orleans Banjos + 2.Mizie Licciardi/Piano/Vocals - Mrs. Licciardi has played piano since her youth. A trained and instinctive player who creates the "stride piano" sound so important in this type of music. Her piano playing is exceptional and once you listen, you do not want her to stop.Robert Ice/Bass - Mr. Ice has played bass for as long as anyone can remember. An instinctive player who can play by ear as well as read, he provides the necessary bottom to the music of New Orleans Banjos + 2.