Born: Sept. 20, 1942 in Yonkers, NY.
1957: Started playing guitar taught by a life long time school friend Frank Chiaro, who at age 15 was well on his way to becoming a fine guitarist. Frank and I started as a duet and shortly after formed our first group, "The Cytations", and enjoyed many successful engagements playing colleges, schools, private clubs, weddings, community functions, etc., locally and out-of-town. Then in early 1958 we contracted with a professional manager, changed our name to the "Chippendales" and started recording for Andie records, an affiliate of Laurie records. We enjoyed a few good years there and did a lot of traveling to Cleveland, Boston, Philadelphia, etc., playing gigs and promoting the records. After the Chippendales decided mutually to disband, Frank and I went on to join a very popular local group, "The Astro-Notes", who had openings for two members due to military obligations. It was then I started to play bass, which has remained my main instrument to present.
Feb. 1964: I received my draft notice and decided to join the Air Force, where I spent the next four years. During this time I worked with several groups playing a variety of music including "The Melody Playboys", (Buck Owens to the Beatles) "Tiny And The Up Tempos" (R&B to rock n' roll) "Ziggy's Trio"(rock n' roll to top 40's) from Rantoul, Ill. To Tripoli, Libya, to Rome, NY.
Feb. 1968: Discharged from the Air Force (Honorably), I moved to Ithaca, NY And joined a four-piece pop-rock group, "The City Limits" for a while. I then formed a variety group called "Brand 'X' and Donna" and enjoyed a lot of local success, playing everything from night clubs, to weddings, banquets, field days, private clubs, etc. One of my most enjoyable (and demanding) experiences during the 70's was working with my good friend and great entertainer, Teed Antrum. Also known as "Big Daddy and the Duquesnes: Soul Industry". We played mainly large clubs and colleges, etc. what a trip!!! Thanks Ted. I took some time off to help my wife Connie raise our three children, Brenda, Shalee and Janeen and remodel the house, work two jobs, raise dogs, etc.
My most recent musical experience (for five years) was with "Southern Impact", a local country-rock group.
I started working with "Route 66 Band" in Feb., 06 and I am enjoying this greatly. I look forward to a long partnership with this fine group of accomplished musicians/entertainers and all the folks associated with the organization. Thanks for the invite. I hope I can do you proud!!
Connie and I continue to reside in Groton, NY and enjoy our daughters and the four grandchildren (Kirsten, Kaitlyn, John and Michael) and families that we have been blessed with.