Inspirational Love Messenger Poet Artist

After many years of experience as a sideman, and a number of innovative projects as a leader, Darryl Tookes has come full circle, formed a new band and recorded a new CD, "Hieros Gamos." Rodolfo Zuniga on drums, Rolando Grooscors on acoustic guitar, Brian MacDougal on upright bass and Tookes on Fender Rhodes and vocals. "Hieros Gamos" which translates Sacred Marriage in English, is a 14-song set of new songs written by Tookes. Live performances of great musicians captured on CD, playing original music with absolute abandon and complete command. Poetry in motion, “Hieros Gamos” was recorded flawlessly by Grammy winning engineer, Felipe Tichauer in Pro Tools HD.

Guest appearances by Longineu Parsons on Trumpet, Recorder and Flute, Johnny James on soprano and alto sax, and Joseph Joubert on piano and as arranger for string quartet all contribute to the eclectic sound of this sweet CD.

Mixed by Eric Schilling and Mastered by Bob Katz, both multiple Grammy winners, “Hieros Gamos” is the perfect listening experience. For Tookes, the band, it is the beginning of their musical journey together. The Sacred Marriage of sensual and spiritual. The emerging icon of a new artistic vision and musical identity.

Advocacy Council, Inc. International Fashion Shows' "Le Fait" Award, meaning, the

sophistication of her man. The "Le Fait" Awards challenge American and International

countries. 2005 This New York Fashion Week Gala will be a "don't miss" for fashion

(non-profit) corp.) in the US. The Marine Advocacy Council, Inc. has a network of

performance featuring special guest appearance by Darryl Tookes, “The Messenger for the Millennium”. He uses his angelic voice to accompany his compositions of magical, beautiful, supernatural music. Existing in a world where love and peace for all is conveyed, the underlining message has been "everyone for themselves, no matter the cost to others." Staying true to oneself without compromising or selling out is difficult for most, but can be achieved. It takes an individual who has a solid foundation based on integrity, morals, values and respect for others. It takes an individual who has the "gift"' of insight to your soul. It takes an individual who can take life's experiences and lyrically inspire and reach your heart. Someone who is able to unite our

The New York Fashion Week Award Gala begins at 5:30 p.m. with the fashion event at 7:00 p.m. An official venue and performer announcement will he held on location in New York City next week. Buyers, Designers, media, press and other industry professionals can register for attendance by visiting: International FashionShows.org and completing the applicable registrations form.

With music in his heart, composer, arranger and singer Darryl Tookes is clearly his own person.

"I have been pretty much in self-imposed isolation and exile," says the solo recording artist who resides in Stamford with wife, Donna, and their four children. "Many artists do that to continue to create in their own underground space, away from the trappings of (tempting) possibilities."

Still, Tookes, who has six albums to his credit, admits he's ready to re-emerge. "I'm not doing anything different, just doing it stronger, longer and more determined."

The performer, whose sensual, haunting music is inspired by celebrated composers like Leonard Bernstein, Henry Mancini, Michel LeGrand and Burt Bacharach, sings on the newly released "Salute! The World War II Tribute Album" (Curb Records). Featured with Tookes are 11 other recording artists including Kenny Rogers, Crystal Gayle, The Judds, Marie Osmond, LeAnn Rimes and Lee Greenwood.

The album pays homage to American military forces who served at home and abroad during World War II. Songs recorded are those popularized during that era. Among them, "Till Then" (Tookes); "You Always Hurt the One You Love" (Gayle); "The Nearness of You" (Rogers); "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" (Osmond) and "God Bless America" (LeAnn Rimes).

Tookes, who began composing at age 8, credits his spirituality and vocal career to his late mother, Leona Washington. The coloratura soprano performed classical, jazz and spiritual singing and retired young to raise her family. Tookes also attributes his talent to his maternal grandmother, contralto Benveneta Washington, who appeared on Broadway and in films and soloed with the Hall Johnson Choir. He admits he didn't know much about his mother or grandmother's professional accomplishments before researching their career archives a few years ago.

His mom wanted her kids to be happy, healthy and follow their dreams, he says. Despite his mother's death in 1979, Tookes feels she's still a part of his life, particularly on stage. "Psychics see her presence around me when I'm performing," he says.

That's not to slight his dad, Hansel Tookes, with whom he continues strong ties. His father, a former golf and football coach, is athletic director emeritus at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee.

"He's one of the true cornerstones of my life," says the Manhattan-born singer, who was raised in Florida and returned yearly to summer in the Bronx, N.Y., with his mom's relatives. "My father taught me how to survive, be resilient, to know who you are. He has always prepared me for the long road of life."

More inspirations on the music front are rock guitarist/singer Todd Rundgren and jazz/pop singer Nancy Wilson.

Tookes calls Rundgren "my biggest hero, the icon of my teenage years. He's the kind of genius when you figure out what he did, you can't figure out how and why he did it."

As for Wilson, if Tookes were to take an album of one singer to a deserted island, it would be her. "Nancy's approach to singing has been the most informative to me," he says. "She has been in the jazz idiom, but didn't limit herself to jazz standards."

Tookes graduated magna cum laude with a degree in physics from Florida A&M, did a short fellowship at Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, and was accepted to medical school, where he planned to conduct medical research.

Still, music was never far from his mind. Gifted with a four-octave range, Tookes found his niche in singing, composing and playing piano. Piano influences include jazz pianists Oscar Peterson and Keith Jarrett.

Moving to New York City after graduating college, Tookes courted his musical passion, joining Rundgren on various music projects. Later gigs teamed him with Sting on the British rocker's "Brand New Day" album and a subsequent tour. Tookes also sang on two "West Side Story" Grammy Award-winning albums and in hundreds of radio and TV commercials. Another formidable engagement was at the Clinton White House.

"I'm the kind of guy who treats all God's children the same -- kings and queens," he says. "I don't mean I'm not grateful for these opportunities that have come my way. We give the impression we do everything with ease, but we work so hard for it. If you take a million people and train them all on cello, you won't get 15 Yo Yo Mas."

More recent projects include his pop album, "New England Morning," with piano accompanist/orchestrator Joseph Joubert. The recording was lauded by Ebony magazine as one of the "hottest in Black Music."

Tookes was invited to participate in the "Salute!" album by its executive producer, Rod McBrien of Avon, who helped initiate a fund-raiser for the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Many of the performers on the album felt a patriotic connection to that earlier wartime period and wanted to be included in this project, says Tookes.

The recording artists and producers will contribute 50 percent of royalties from album sales to The American Experience Foundation, benefiting veterans' organizations. Dispersal of funds will be based on directives from an advisory committee that includes Sen. Robert Dole and Brigadier General Wilma Vaught.

"Sometimes we forget," says Tookes. "It's not just the heroes, but also the families who have to live in grief for the rest of their lives. I can only say, 'God bless them for what they did.' "
Copyright © 2005, Southern Connecticut Newspapers, Inc.

CURB Records Sponsored an Album Launch Party at the Women's Memorial in Washington, D.C. to honor the many men and women who served our nation in the tenches and at home during World War II. A tribute album of popular songs from that era performed by internationally know artist such as LeAnn Rimes, Lee Greenwood, Crystal Gayle and many more, was launched to an enthusiastic crowd in attendance. The tribute album was produced by Rod McBrien of Rod McBrien Productions in New York.

(PRWEB) June 26, 2005 -- Perhaps that is what makes Darryl the formidable musician he has become, and why his personal success has so outweighed his professional fame. For as long as anybody can recall, the scales have been tipped concerning trend vs. talent – though many will argue that the drum of authenticity has been beaten, that a real demand has been made for substance over style, the music industry has yet to lend itself to anything original, intelligent and spirited. Until now.

Recently, Darryl Tookes’ breakthrough album New England Morning was listed among “the latest and hottest in black music” by Ebony Magazine’s July 2005 publication. This acknowledgement is concurrent with the release of the World War II tribute album “Salute!” demonstrating Darryl’s singing abilities in the standard “Till Then” (other artists featured on this album include LeAnn Rimes, Crystal Gayle, Kenny Rogers, Marie Osmond and Lee Greenwood). Darryl will be appearing at the Gramophone Shop in New Canaan, Ct. on July 2nd to autograph CD’s, following the album’s scheduled release on June 28th of this year.

Though Tookes’ music is only now gaining the notoriety it has for so long deserved, he is no stranger to the perils and perks encumbered by the working artist. Blessed with a four-octave range and perfect pitch, Darryl Tookes has composed and performed across an ever-widening musical spectrum. He has sung before a presidential audience at an exclusive White House performance, toured with multi-platinum solo recording artist Sting, contributed to two Grammy award winning West Side Story albums, and is an award winning composer and performer of musical sequences for thousands of radio and television spots. His discography includes six solo albums produced by both major and independent record labels, including New England Morning, Babies and Balloons, Red Bird, Travels of an Ordinary Man, Rendezvous and his self-titled debut Darryl Tookes. When asked to comment on the quality of Darryl’s versatile craft, Ambient Recording’s Mark Conese has said, “Darryl Tookes and Joseph Joubert (his collaborative pianist and professional companion) are about as talented as any two can human beings get.”

Truer words were never spoken. But are audiences finally prepared to embrace such a precocious, yet brilliantly elusive art form?

New England Morning Named Among the Latest and Hottest in Black Music in EBONY Magazine’s July 2005 Issue

“Just in time for cool summer listening,” TBM Records’ president/producer Tanya Bickley announced today that Darryl Tookes’ solo album New England Morning, featuring Joseph Joubert, is listed in the July 2005 EBONY magazine as “the latest and hottest in Black Music!”

It’s a busy month for Darryl Tookes who is one of the twelve recording artists featured in Salute! The World War II Tribute Album, which will be in stores on Tuesday, June 28th. Darryl, along with performers Crystal Gayle, Lee Greenwood, Lou Christie, and Johnny Kemp will be appearing at the June 28th Washington, D.C. Salute! Album Launch at Arlington National Cemetery. Back home in Connecticut, Darryl will be promoting Salute! at the Gramophone Shop in New Canaan, CT for a June 30th Launch party and an album signing on Saturday, July 2nd at 1:00 PM.

Darryl Tookes, LeAnn Rimes, Kimberly Locke, Crystal Gayle, and Lee Greenwood Among Artists Participating in Curb Records' World War II Tribute Album

Album Launch Party Set For June 28 at The Women's Memorial in Washington DC

NASHVILLE, Tenn., June 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Country music legends Crystal Gayle and Lee Greenwood, among many other musical performers, have added their timeless voices to an album of World War II era music that will be released on June 28 on Curb Records. "Salute! The World War II Tribute Album" features popular songs from the World War II era performed by some of America's leading contemporary recording artists. The mission of The Tribute Album is to provide a lasting tribute to the exceptional generation of Americans who served both in the trenches as well as on the home front through a pivotal moment of American history. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Album will be donated to the American Experience Foundation to benefit America's veterans.

Senator Bob Dole and Abe Pollin, owner of the Washington Wizards, and Brigadier General Wilma Vaught, founder of the Women in Military Service for America Memorial, are hosting the launch party for The Tribute Album on June 28th from 6 - 8 PM ET at the Women's Memorial, located at the entrance of Arlington National Cemetery. Crystal Gayle and Lee Greenwood will be in attendance for the release party.

Greenwood is proud to be a part of the collection. "WWII was a huge turning point in our Nation's history, and being able to pass music from that time period to future generations is vital to the legacy. I am honored to be a part of this project."

Mike Curb and Rod McBrien are the Executive Producers of The Tribute Album. McBrien was inspired to produce The Tribute Album when asked to create a fundraiser for the World War II Memorial. Senator Bob Dole, while spearheading the efforts to build the Memorial, was instrumental in encouraging the production of the The Tribute Album. President Bill Clinton, who signed the law authorizing the establishment of the National World War II Memorial, also lent his support. A partnership with Mike Curb of Curb Records brought the Album to reality.

Featured songs include: "You Always Hurt the One You Love" performed by Crystal Gayle "Rum and Coca-Cola" performed by Johnny Kemp "The Nearness of You" performed by Kenny Rogers "Cow Cow Boogie" performed by The Judds "Till the End of Time" performed by Lee Greenwood "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree" performed by John Pizzarelli "Over the Rainbow" performed by Kimberley Locke "Dance With A Dolly (With a Hole in Her Stockin')" performed by Zachary Richard "Till Then" performed by Darryl Tookes "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" performed by Marie Osmond "Dream" performed by Lou Christie "God Bless America" performed by LeAnn Rimes Rod McBrien, producer of "Salute! The World War II Tribute Album," is one of the premier director/producers of American music today. Rod McBrien Productions is located at 317 West 83rd Street, New York, NY 10024.

Curb Records is the home of many of today's hottest acts including superstars Tim McGraw, LeAnn Rimes, Jo Dee Messina, Wynonna, Hank Williams, Jr. and Kimberley Locke.
Source: Curb Records

Boston Foundation for Sight Darry Tookes and Joseph Joubert to perform for Boston Foundation for Sight party at the 406 Club. Fenway Park. June 4. Dr. Perry Rosenthal, the founder is the inventor whose work is having a 90% cure rate inpatients with certain types of
blindness. He has been seen on the Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, and
his work has been featured in the NY Times.

South Florida Sunfest on April 29, 2005 Darryl Tookes to sit in with his great friend Johnny James at the South Florida Sun Fest.

Chairman of the Board Darryl Tookes elected Chairman of the Board of Directors of the newly formed New York Singers Collective. An organization whose members are among the most established and outstanding new singers on the NY scene.

Arts for Healing Darryl Tookes working with Arts for Healing in New Canaan, CT. A non profit organization-- they are having great success using music as an instrument of healing.

Children's Harbor Darryl Tookes sings for Children's Harbor (Delray Beach Florida) fundraiser in FT. Lauderdale April 29, 2005

"God Bless the Child" Darryl Tookes arranged "God Bless the Child" for a documentary film for the Guadeloupe Center of Immolake.

Singing the National Anthem on April 1, 2005 a televised boxing match. Dawson vs.
Garcia. Comcast & Cox Networks

Joseph Joubet gets rave reviews from classicstoday.com for the CD
he did with Angela Brown.

Christmas Gifts is a holiday coming-out party for veteran R&B and jazz session musicians seizing their chance to guide the sleigh. Though an independent release (available through ricksofactomusic.com), these songs sound anything but indie -- the elaborate productions reveal the cast of characters to be polished studio rats. Darryl Tookes (who's worked with Sting, Elton John and Michael Jackson) penned the comely ballad "Christmas Time Is Here," a duet he delivers with former Atlantic recording artist Ullanda McCullough, who's also sung with Chaka Khan, Billy Joel and Carly Simon. Other standout originals include the smooth, sleigh-bell-driven "Snowflakes Are Falling," from former Miles Davis keyboardist Robert Irving III, and Jeanne Ricks' (George Benson, Branford Marsalis) bouncy "Why, Because It's Christmas." Gifts also comes wrapped with new takes on holiday standards like "Silent Night" and "Merry Christmas Darling" -- performed elegantly by a bunch of people you've heard before, but just didn't know their names. (BILL CRANDALL)

A BENEFIT CONCERT FOR WAYNE PEDZWATERS Featuring The reat Darryl Tookes, Vaneese Thomas, Will Lee, Tom Chapin, Toph-e and the Pussycats, Buskin/Bateau, Shelton Becton, THE Bev Leslies, Jeff Golub, Chuck Loeb, Paul Chaffer and the CBS Orchestra, Joe Beck, The Fab Fox, John Tropea, The Allesi Brothers, Dana Calteri, Kati Mac & Dennis Collins

Darryl will start auditions to select musicians to for his recording sessions. The cd is sure to be Darryl's best work to date.

Check out Darryl's collaboration with Saxophonist Dr. J on "How Deep Is Your Love?" from The Remedy CD

Darryl's recording of "Merry Christmas, Darling" ... A HOLIDAY FAVORITE ... Darryl's arrangement features lush vocals by Darryl along with Dennis Collins, and a soaring solo by harmonica virtuoso Howard Levy

"Africa Plumbridge" The New Musical by Sue Carey based on a true story ... Darryl sings the role of Richie ... a young man trying to get his life together and who is very much in love with Africa
Hear Darryl on Joe Cerisao's new Christmas CD.

Oceanlight Records compilation

Don't forget to look for Darryl Tookes on the Oceanlight Records compilation "Moonlight" with Bernadette Brown

Darryl Tookes recording studio session for 12 year-old Tiffany Evans
Oprah Winfrey Discovery and Junior Star Search Winner

Friday, 07 January 2005
Jamerican Beauty
Written by TBWT Staff
Tuesday, 02 March 2004
Looking as glamorous as ever, Sheryl Lee Ralph takes a moment backstage at a NYC Divas: Simply Singing! Benefit. For over 20 years Ms. Ralph has been lauded as "one of the most important AIDS fundraiser's in Hollywood."
DIVAS BJ Crosby, Ebony Jo-Ann, Adriane Lennox, Alyson Williams, Melonie Daniels, Natalie Douglas, Kira and 5-year-old spoken word artist Autum performed under the musical direction of Darryl Tookes. This sensational, sold out show benefited The Balm In Gilead, a non-profit, non-governmental organization that also sponsors The Black Church Week of Prayer for the Healing of AIDS. Sheryl Lee Ralph is also the founder of the annual Jamerican Film. Festival, a four day festival to showcase International and Jamaican talent called "One of the Top Ten Film Festivals in the World." American born of Jamaican parentage, Sheryl Lee Ralph is known world wide for her extensive film roles, her Tony Award winning role in DREAMGIRLS, as a TV Mom in the UPN TV series Moesha and for her many business and cultural endeavors. Sheryl Lee Ralph is a true Diva with a heart of gold.B2 productions' Black 2: Broadway co-produced this night of joy and fellowship.

Darryl Tookes at Delray Beach Marriott Monumental Music Day
Monumental Day in Music! This Sunday, June 13th, be at Floridas Delray Beach Marriott where international singing superstar Darryl Tookes puts the finale to his tour with Sting with zest. Darryl is rounding up 13 of the best musicians in the world for the opportunity to be selected by himself and his orchestrator, Joseph Joubert, to be on their new CD, "Straight to the Heart," as well as in the upcoming documentary on Darryl’s life, "Travels of an Ordinary Man." Come early and hobnob with the best. Darryl's amazing voice and lyrics have enchanted people the world over. Joseph has been called the best pianist on the planet. Guest musicians arrive at 6 pm, to be greeted by Roland Moriarty and the Elite Entertainment Group staff. An orientation on Darryl and Joseph, followed by a meet 'n greet with the two stars happens inside. Come early and participate! A 20-minute performance with Darryl on vocals and Joseph on piano follows. This is a great once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience these two great musicians up close and personal at the start of a fabulous new project. Who knows? Maybe you'll be involved!! Once the performance is complete, Darryl and Joseph will select the candidates for their new CD, "Straight to the Heart," and the documentary on Darryl, "Travels of an Ordinary Man."

(PRWEB) June 11, 2004 -- Darryl worked on Sting's Grammy-Award-winning "Brand New Day" and performed with his Europe 2000 tour. He also has the distinction of singing on both Grammy-Award winning "West Side Story" albums, one, the last produced by Leonard Bernstein, the other produced by Dave Grusin.

Darryl was the pianist and musical director for "In Performance at the White House–The Singer and the Song," a PBS Special. His voice is a favorite among "Sesame Street" fans. He recorded the sacred gospel epic "Revelation" with Judith Jameson for the Alvin Ailey Dance Company. Darryl has sung in Spanish with Mexico's legendary Juan Gabriel, in French with superstar Patricia Kaas, and in Japanese with jazz great Katsumi Horii. He has also worked with Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Michael Jackson, Barry Manilow, Quincy Jones, Diana Ross, Roberta Flack, Cristina Aquilera, Natalie Cole, Peter, Paul & Mary, George Benson, Burt Bacharach, Luther Vandross, Toninho Horta, Lionel Ritchie, and Maya Angelou, among others.

An award-winning composer and performer of vocal solos for ad campaigns, his voice launched AT&T's It's All Within Your Reach. He was also the featured soloist for the U.S. Army recruitment campaign, joined by the Harlem Boys Choir. He has sung on literally thousands of spots for a mega list of organizations.

Joseph has toured with Three Mo' Tenors and is also the arranger/ conductor of the Three Mo' Tenors BMG recording. He was nominated for a Grammy in 2000 as producer/ arranger/ keyboardist for the Centurymen’s "Beautiful Star" CD in the category of Best Classical Cross-Over Album, the same year he recorded "Red Bird" with Darryl. Joseph was nominated for a Drama Desk Award as orchestrator for the Off-Broadway show "Violet" and has performed on the Revelations CD for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, and with the Manhattan Symphony, the Bronx Arts Ensemble, the New Philharmonia, and the West Palm Beach Symphony, as well as in Moscow, Spoleto, Italy and Nice, France.

An awesome jazz artist that is working with Elite Entertainment (Boca Raton, FL) – Darryl Tookes (www.darryltookes.com) is slated to work on some special projects throughout 2005. Darryl is an amazing jazz talent and there is talk of several parties working with Darryl to cut a live CD/DVD with an orchestral arrangement also provided by one of the country’s top pianists, Joseph Joubert.

According to Elite’s owner/CEO Roland Moriarty, there are several ideas for this talented performer, but Deco will be most interested in the upcoming event being co-sponsored by Elite Entertainment and Elite Soiree. It will be a VIP invite only event at the Versace Mansion to be held Sunday, Jan. 16, Darryl will perform from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Both Darryl and Elite Entertainment CEO, Roland Moriarty, are available to talk further on this and other 2005 events they have scheduled and/or are “secretly” developing – one being the upscale VIP only event at the Versace Mansion. Please see the attached bio and visit the web site(s) listed below. Darryl is also a wonderful interview -- received a Masters in Physics before making Jazz his full-time avocation. He also has created one of the most loved Christmas songs done over in Spanish!

Moriarty calls Darryl a “sleeping giant.” I will let you and your viewers determine that for yourselves with a personal interview. Many of Darryl’s songs can easily be downloaded from the web and I can arrange for an exclusive at any day/time convenient for you and the show. See web links below, and I also provided Roland Moriarty’s contact information as well.

Darryl Tookes - The Stage is Set!
A "life-changing experience!", hailed one of the attending musicians. All eyes were focused on Darryl and his sensuous mesmerizing movements as everyone’s ears and hearts rejoiced in his melting melodious voice, the voice the world has been clamoring for.

(PRWEB) July 5, 2004 -- For the opportunity to meet and work with musician, singer and composer Darryl Tookes and pianist, arranger Joseph Joubert, musicians showed up in droves. This included some of the crème de la crème, the best, of the music world, including virtuosos on string, wind, percussion and more. Once underway, the evening was presented by Roland Moriarty of Elite Management. This ambitious project includes a new CD, DVD, documentary on Darryl's life, followed by the city to city tour. After all the details were explained, the magic moment, the one the guests were waiting for, arrived.

Darryl sang, accompanied by the inimitable and great Joubert. A great vocalist with an astounding pianist, both considered the best in the world, held the audience entranced.

A "life-changing experience!" hailed one of the attending musicians. All eyes were focused on Darryl and his sensuous mesmerizing movements as everyone's ears and hearts rejoiced in his melting melodious voice, the voice the world has been clamoring for. With Joubert's cascading piano accompaniment, "the musical experience was one of the greatest of my life," exulted another musician, generous with praise.

"Back to the Garden," the opening number, was a moving evocative melody dancing with joy, love and passion. After the performance, attendees, appreciative, exhilarated, and honored to be involved, saluted it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, tribute indeed from those in the know about these two masters, Darryl Tookes and Joseph Joubert.

The stage is now set. Auditions for Darryl's and Joubert's new CD begin when Darryl completes his latest recording with Bobby McFarren.

Darryl's background includes working with Sting on his Grammy-Award-winning "Brand New Day" and performing with its Europe 2000 tour. He has the distinction of singing on both Grammy-Award-winning "West Side Story" albums, one, the last produced by Leonard Bernstein; the other produced by Dave Grusin. Darryl was the pianist and musical director for "In Performance at the White House–The Singer and the Song", a PBS Special. "Sesame Street" fans adore his voice. He recorded the sacred gospel epic "Revelation" with Judith Jameson for the Alvin Ailey Dance Company. Versatile, Darryl has sung in Spanish with Mexico’s legendary Juan Gabriel, in French with superstar Patricia Kaas, and in Japanese with jazz great Katsumi Horii. He has also worked with Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Michael Jackson, Barry Manilow, Quincy Jones, Diana Ross, Roberta Flack, Cristina Aquilera, Natalie Cole, Peter, Paul & Mary, George Benson, Burt Bacharach, Luther Vandross, Toninho Horta, Lionel Ritchie, and Maya Angelou, among others.

Joubert was nominated for a Drama Desk Award as orchestrator for the Off-Broadway show "Violet" and is credited as conductor and pianist on the Revelations CD for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre. He has performed with the Manhattan Symphony, the Bronx Arts Ensemble, the New Philharmonia, and the West Palm Beach Symphony. As a soloist, he played Duke Ellington's "New World A-Comin’" and Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm Variations" with the Marin Symphony, and orchestrated "Sisters of Freedom," a 40-minute work premiered by the Milwaukee Symphony. Abroad, Joubert has performed at the Pushkin Museum of Arts in Moscow and with the Hinds Trio at the International Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, Italy, and in Nice, France. He has collaborated with Kathleen Battle, Florence Quivar, Wilhelmenia Fernandez, Marvis Martin, Simon Estes, Hilda Harris, William Brown, Esther Hinds and Barbara Conrad.

An Evening with Darryl Tookes
A concert to benefit
The Long Ridge School Arts & Athletic Center
Was held on Saturday, October 25th

New England Morning, a romantic Pop album featuring Darryl Tookes and Joseph Joubert was in the first cut for seven Grammy nominations. Released by New Canaan based, TBM Records in April 2003, the album has received recognition in the following categories: Record of the Year, Album of the Year, Song of the Year (“New England Morning”), Best Pop Duo or Group with Vocal (“Tomorrow’s Never Promised”), Best Pop Vocal Album, Best Instrumental Composition (“New England Morning”as performed by a live 65-piece orchestra), and Best Producer. Says TBM president/producer Tanya Bickley, “After all the back breaking work, choices and decisions, it was thrilling and humbling to read the Grammy ballot and see Darryl’s, Joseph’s and my work among so many talented musicians, composers, arrangers and producers. TBM has the highest hopes for the album and Darryl and Joseph’s success. Their beautiful music penetrates straight to the heart, so personal, so intimate.”

To quote Ambient Recording Company’s Mark Conese, “They are about as good as any two humans get.”When Tookes’luminous voice and Joubert’s virtuoso piano unite in song, their melody transports listeners to “places I want to be.”Do they perform smooth jazz, romantic pop, sophisticated cabaret, love songs for orchestra, music for a mellow evening at home, music to calm the savage beast at work? All or one, it’s hard to choose. With talent and style that defy the confinement of niche, it’s more accurate to say, they are, quite simply, Tookes & Joubert.

New England Morning culminates their ten-year partnership as singer/composer and arranger/ accompanist. Arranged with the color and palette of a full orchestra in mind, the seven Tookes originals and five cover songs are expressive and conversational, vulnerable and honest, personal and intimate, each freshly painted by the Tookes/Joubert musical imagination. Darryl Tookes’voice and Joseph Joubert’s piano pour out together, an elixir of liquid gold. The last bonus track features Tookes singing the title song, accompanied by Joubert and a 65-piece orchestra performing his lush and lyrical arrangement.

The album was recorded on Direct Stream Digital at Ambient Recording’s converted North Stamford, CT barn, whose studio’s surfaces are diffused with soft pine wood, hand painted with 15 layers of violin varnish. Mark Conese recorded Darryl Tookes with a Brauner microphone, custom designed and modified by Klaus Heyne, while Joseph Joubert performed on a Steinway D Concert Grand and was recorded using two Shure microphones. Ambient Audio Labs 1070A microphone pre-amplifiers were used exclusively throughout the recording.

For more information, go to www.newenglandmorning.com. New England Morning is available for purchase at the Gramophone Shop and Walter Stewart’s in New Canaan, The Harrel Shop in Darien, Sally’s Place in Westport, and at www.cdbaby.com and www.amazon.com.

TBM Records will release on April 3rd NEW ENGLAND MORNING, a hybrid SACD album. The recording has been in the works since November 2000 when TBM ‘s Tanya Bickley and performing artist and composer Darryl Tookes began exploring the possibility of creating an album of romantic and inspirational love songs. NEW ENGLAND MORNING will be sold on www.newenglandmorning.com, the album’s website, and initially at the Gramophone Shop and Walter Stewart’s in New Canaan, CT, The Harrel Shop and Johnny’s in Darien, CT, and Sally’s Place in Westport, CT. TBM plans to expand retail distribution regionally and nationally.

Passionately committed to NEW ENGLAND MORNING, Ms. Bickley says, “Darryl Tookes and Joseph Joubert fill a spectrum of recorded music that is rarely heard. Romantic Pop, Romantic Chamber, or Neo-Classical Jazz could define them. But, we believe, they defy market niche or definition and are, quite simply, Darryl Tookes and Joseph Joubert, performing at their prime.”Ms. Bickley con-tinued, “Every stop sign or delay we have experienced in the last two-and-a-half years has ended positively. Pre-release responses to the album lead us to believe NEW ENGLAND MORNING will captivate audiences. Listeners say they welcome the beautiful melodies and wise, literate lyrics. They remark that Darryl Tookes’singing has a deeply spiritual quality that makes them feel at peace. Not unnoticed is the virtuoso quality of their work. When Ambient Recording’s Mark Conese came to Darryl with news of Direct Stream Digital and Hybrid SACD’s, we thought, ‘What a bonanza to record in a format that weds the warmth of analog to digital wizardry–and to be able to make it available to music lovers either on standard CD players or SACD (Super Audio CD) players.’We have been surrounded by family, friends, fans, and colleagues who have given their very best to help us bring this beautiful, beautiful music to the marketplace to be enjoyed by listeners everywhere.”

World famous Recording Artist Darryl Tookes, with 6 Solo Albums and Backup Singing for Sting, David Bowie, Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin, singing a duet with Moogy on Moogy's song "Dust In The Wind"

Darryl Tookes is a featured artist and songwriter on the brand new Beach Music Super Compilation CD with the Embers. People say they want to hear this kind of music. Answering this need, Darryl has been composing and singing his beautiful music for two decades. Honoring his vision, he has been through the refiner's fire and come out burnished gold, a treasure for audiences worldwide!

Darryl has arranged for and performed with scores of the world's music greats, as well as composed and performed love songs for his solo albums. Darryl worked on Sting's Grammy-Award-winning "Brand New Day" CD and tour. He also has the distinction of singing on two Grammy-Award-winning "West Side Story" albums, one, the last produced by Leonard Bernstein; the other produced by Dave Grusin. Darryl was the pianist and musical director for "In Performance at the White House–The Singer and the Song," a PBS Special. He has worked with Quincy Jones, Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Michael Jackson, O.C Smith, Nancy Wilson, Carly Simon, Korn, Laurie Anderson, Barry Manilow, Diana Ross, Roberta Flack, Cristina Aquilera, Natalie Cole, Peter, Paul & Mary, George Benson, Burt Bacharach, Luther Vandross, Lionel Ritchie, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Gerry Mulligan, Patti Austin, Bobby McFerrin, among others. Darryl has sung in Spanish with Mexico's legendary Juan Gabriel, in French with superstar Patricia Kaas, and in Japanese with jazz great Katsumi Horii.

Join The Embers as we celebrate this music today with their fabulous array of guest artists that include 8 time Grammy winner George Benson, whose cut, "New York City", was personally selected by the Embers to pay tribute to their country and the city where they had such a great time recording, Cuba Gooding, best remembered as lead vocalist for The Main Ingredient-"Everybody Plays The Fool", "I Just Don't Wanna Be Lonely", Darryl Tookes, vocalist, musician, writer who has performed with major superstars all over the world, the beautiful La Tanya Hall who always delivers sensational performances in the recording studio or onstage, International recording artist Coral, the young sensation from Argentina, Ronnie Limar whose voice has been stirring audiences singing Beach Music hits years before he knew what it was. We pay tribute to Beach music's all time award winner, O.C. Smith with his first #1 Beach Music hit, "Brenda" and his last # 1"Save The Last Dance For Me". "We Made Them Dance" is dedicated to him.

07-01-2000 / Lille / Le Zénith / FRANCE
•Support art: [none].
•Attendance: -.
Scream was fired and was replaced by two new backing vocalists: Machan Taylor and Darryl Tookes. The male vocalist seemed to feel pretty uncomfortable.

Darryl's solo recordings have been:
New England Morning (TBM Records)
Babies and Balloons (Lifeguard Inc.)
Red Bird (MCA Universal)
Travels of An Ordinary Man (Dondido Music)
Rendezvous (Capitol Records)
Darryl Tookes (SBK Records)

Tamar Beach Wells is an accomplished performer on oboe, oboe d'amore and English horn. She is principal oboist with the Greater Bridgeport Symphony, where she was recently the English horn soloist in Copeland's "Quiet City". She performs regularly with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra, and has been a member of the Springfield Symphony and the Goodspeed and Connecticut Opera orchestras. She has traveled with Andre Boccelli on a concert tour of the United States. Tamar is also principal oboist with the Battell Chamber Orchestra of the internationally acclaimed children's choir, Chorus Angelicus.

In addition to her orchestral experience, Tamar is familiar to many congregations and choral societies, appearing frequently as a soloist in the tri-state area.

Other facets of her career include recording with Borealis and soul singer Darryl Tookes. Tamar has appeared annually on Connecticut Public Television in the Boar's Head Festival, and on many National Public Radio affiliates

John Scofield - Bump 2000 Polygram
The Medicine Band
John Coster
The Prime Time Band
Jay Rowe - Laugh Out Loud
Bradford Robinson - Enthusiastically Lost & it's ironic Y but so is this
Darryl Tookes - Babies & Balloons featuring (Omar Hakim, Anthony Jackson, Bashiri Johnson)
Sweeter Than Wine - Live at the Hungry Tiger
John Lamb - I Am What I Am

Debbie Harry - lead vocal
Clem Burke - drums
Jimmy Destri - keyboards
Nigel Harrison - bass
Frank Infante - guitar
Chris Stein - guitar

Robert Aaron - horn arrangements, saxophone
Sammy Figueroa, Manual Badrena, Roger Squitero - percussion
Janice G. Pendarvis, Zachary Sanders, Lani Groves, Darryl Tookes - background vocals on "The Hunter Gets Captured By the Game"
Rae Maldonado, Luis Ortiz, Richard A. Davis, Mac Gollehor - horns on "Little Caesar", "Island of Lost Souls" and "War Child"

Carmen McRae : vocals, piano
Hank Crawford : alto saxophone
Grover Washington,Jr. : soprano saxophone
Hubert Laws : flute, alto flute, piccolo
Freddie Hubbard : trumpet, flugelhorn
Jorge Dalto : piano
Mario E.Sprouse : rhodes piano
Cornell Dupree : electric guitar
Buster Williams : bass, electric bass, piccolo bass
Chris Parker : drums
Crusher Bennett : percussion
horn section : Virgil Jones, Lew Soloff (trumpet, flugelhorn)
Tom Malone, Janice Robinson (trombone, bass trombone)
Hank Crawford (alto saxophone)
Alex Foster (tenor saxophone)
background vocals : Terri Gonzalez, Curtis King, Darryl Tookes
strings : John Blake, Akua Dixon, Garfield Moore, Edith Wint,
Nina Simone, Winterton Garvey, Edith Wint,
Bernard Zeller

LIKE A KING
N. Rodgers
Guitar & Vocal - Jimmie Vaughan
Rhythm Guitar & Tambourine - Nile Rodgers
B-3 - Bill Willis
Drums - George Rains
Background Vocals - Dennis Collins & Darryl Tookes
Recorded at Avatar, NY, NY
Engineered by Gary Tole
Mixed at Chung King by Gary Tole

Sting - Brand New Day Tour - 1999 / 2000 / 2001
Sting vocals, bass (guitar on A Thousand Years and Fragile)
Dominic Miller guitar (bass on A Thousand Years and Fragile)
Manu Katché drums
Kipper keyboards
Jason Rebello keyboards
Chris Botti trumpet
Lorraine Barnes backing vocals (part of "Scream"; all shows in 1999)
Mandy LeCointe backing vocals (part of "Scream"; all shows in 1999)
Samantha Swambi backing vocals (part of "Scream"; all shows in 1999)
Machan Taylor backing vocals (all shows from January until April 2000)
Darryl Tookes backing vocals (all shows from January until April 2000)
Russ Irwin backing vocals (all shows from April 2000 until April 2001), keyboards (all Japanese shows and in May 2001)
Jeff Young backing vocals (all shows from May until July 2001), keyboards (all shows from May until mid June 2001)

Don Alias ,Robin Batteau, Vivian Cherry, Marc Cohn, Dennis Collins, Bill Dillon, Ada Dye,r Mark Egan, Frank Floyd, Steve Gadd, Peter Laurence, Gordon Milt, Grayson Bashiri, Johnson John, Leventhal, Jerry Marotta, Dennis McDermott, Chris Palmaro, Eric Rehl, Frank Simms, David Spinoza, James Taylor, Darryl Tookes, Stephen Tubin, Arto Tuncboyaciyan, Glen Velez, Ben Wisch & Kenny White

Recorded at Nidaros Studios, Trondheim during fall of 1987.
Engineered by Rune Nordal
Additional recordings at Skyline Studios, NY
Engineer: Mario Rodriguez
’Still in love’remixed by Paul Lani,
’Wings of steel’remixed by Duane Baron andJohn Purdell.
produced by Bjørn Nessjø

Band:
Torstein Flakne: Vocal,guitars
Terje Storli: Bass
Steinar Krokstad: Drums
Keyboards: Kjetil Bjerkestrand
Background vocals: Vaneese Thomas, Angela Clemmons
Darryl Tookes, Phil Ballou , Fonzie Thornton , Benny Diggs

Luther Vandross : Any Love
Alan Rubin - Horn
Amy Knoles - Tympani [Timpani]
Anthony Hinton - Vocals (Background)
Brenda White - Vocals (Background)
Buddy Williams - drum overdubs
Christine Wiltshire - Vocals (Background)
Cissy Houston - Vocals (Background)
Darryl Tookes - Vocals (Background)
David Gamson - Arranger, Keyboards, Synthesizer
David Lasley - Vocals (Background)
David Tofani - Horn
Denise Brown - Guitar (Acoustic)
Doc Powell - Guitar
Fonzi Thornton - Vocal Contractor, Vocals (Background)
Fred Bova - Engineer
G. Diane Sumler - Vocals (Background)
George Corsillo - Art Direction
George Young - Sax (Soprano)
Greg Calbi - Mastering
Harold Jones - Horn
Homer Mensch - Horn
Hubert Eaves III - Arranger
James Ingram - Vocals (Background)
Jason Miles - Synthesizer
Jerome Ashby - Horn
John Miller - Horn
Jon Faddis - Horn
Kevin Owens - Vocals (Background)
Kirk Whalum - Sax (Soprano)
Lisa Fisher - Vocals (Background)
Luther Vandross - Arranger, Main Performer, Producer, Vocals, Vocals (Background)
Marc DeSisto - Mixing Assistant
Marcus Miller - Arranger, Bass, Keyboards, Producer, Synthesizer
Mark Stevens - Vocals (Background)
Marsha Burns - Production Coordination
Matthew Rolston - Photography
Michael Lovesmith - Vocals (Background)
Michael White - Guitar (Acoustic)
Michelle Cobbs - Vocals (Background)
Mike Morongell - Engineer
Paul Jackson Jr. - Guitar
Paul Riser - Rhythm Arrangements
Paulette McWilliams - Vocals (Background)
Paulinho Da Costa - Percussion
Peter Gordon - Horn
Peter Grammatico - Guitar (Acoustic)
Randy Brecker - Horn
Ray Bardani - Engineer, Mixing
Tawatha Agee - Vocals (Background)
Theresa Reed - Vocals (Background)

A Quiet Place
Skyline (SKYD - 8701)
Released October 1987
Produced by Paul Wickliffe
Featuring: Fred Hersch, Eddie Daniels, Marc Egan and Joey Baron
Featuring: Piano / Keyboards: Fred Hersch; Bass: Marc Egan; Drums: Joey Baron; Sax / Flute: Eddie Daniels; Guitar: Jay Azzolina; Percussion: Cyro Baptista; Backgroung Vocals: Darryl Tookes, Angela Clemmon - Patrick and Roseanna Vitro.

Omar Hakim - drums, keyboards, piano (electric), vocals, vocals (background), voices, synthesizer bass, keyboard guitar
Victor Bailey - bass
Kenny Kirkland - piano, keyboards
Darryl Tookes - vocals (background)
Bashiri Johnson - percussion
Michael Bearden - organ, piano, keyboards
Barry Danielian - trumpet, flugelhorn
Pedro Eustache - chinese flute
Paulette McWilliams - vocals (background)
Ozzie Melendez - trombone
Denzil Miller - piano, clavinet, synthesizer bass
Nick Moroch - guitar
Lori-Ann Velez - vocals (background)
Jerry Brooks - bass
Bobby Franchescini - flute, tenor & soprano sax

The electricity generated by Dave Grusin Presents West Side Story comes from the exhilarating sound of a big band with no holds barred. It swings, it jumps, it whirls, and listening to it, you won't be able to stop yourself from doing the same thing.

A historical recording, being the first music album available on DVD, it is also the only one Dave Grusin made for his short-lived N2K label. This production closed a decade of critically acclaimed tribute recordings offering Grusin interpretations of Gershwin, Ellington, Mancini and now, Bernstein.

Its prime qualities are the perfection of the musicianship and scintillating arrangements, putting it among the finest modern big band recordings. But at its heart is, of course, the great Leonard Bernstein music which has so much intrinsically that it lends itself to stretching in every which way, most particularly with jazz.

It is those roots in the original which are extended and expounded on here. At the center of a star-studded big band (the other prong of his 1990s recordings), Dave Grusin has created a sound that is radiant. The complex and dazzling orchestrations make every fragment of it a conversation piece, inducing passion and excitement. The ever-present Latin tempo takes one directly back to the spirit of the original Broadway show and its theme of racial tensions on New York's West Side. In an esoteric way, this record manages to travel around the world, and discover itself right at home.

With John Patitucci on Bass and Dave Weckl on Drums, things start to sizzle from the first tense and driving chords of the “Prologue,”and it is evident that this blend of Bernstein and Grusin is surely going to fulfil the listener's expectations. The big band plus jazz sound mixed with Latin heat, notably Sammy Figueroa on percussion, sets a standard which is maintained on every number.

“Something's Coming”shines even brighter, thoroughly using the outstanding ensemble. Led in by a daydreaming piano, we have the first hint that something is indeed on its way. Once the thought takes hold, the entire group has a go at the theme, powerfully executing the melody in a most intricate and stylish manner.

vocals by Diva Gray, Darryl Tookes, Kevin di Simone, Jill dell' Abate, Hilary James, Karen Kamon, Joshua Tyler Crookham, Guy Finley, Mychael Lamorte

Bernadette Peters I'll Be Your Baby Tonight
Personnel includes: Bernadette Peters (vocals); Phillippe Saisse (arranger, piano); Dann Huff (acoustic & electric guitars); Hugh McCracken, John Leventhal, Larry Byrom, Jim Boggia (acoustic guitar); Nick Moroch (electric guitar); Stuart Duncan (guitar, background vocals); Daniel Block (clarinet); Ted Nash (alto saxophone); Roger Rosenberg (baritone saxophone); Tony Kadleck, Chris Botti, James Hynes (trumpet); Michael Davis (trombone); Sam Pilafian (tuba); Leon Pendarvis (piano, Hammond B-3 organ, background vocals); Matt Rollins, Claude Gaudette (keyboards); Mark Egan, Tom Barney (bass); Steve Ferrone (drums); Eric Darken, Bashiri Johnson (percussion); New York Voices, Darryl Tookes, Roland White, Nashville Bluegrass Band (background vocals).Producers include: Tony McAnany, Peter Bunetta, Phillippe Saisse.Engineers include: Ed Cherney, Roy Hendrickson, Bruce Miller.I'LL BE YOUR BABY TONIGHT was nominated for a 1997 Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance.

March 13, 2005
Grace Community Church
New Canaan, CT
Darryl Tookes
Special Music for Sunday Service
Pastor Cliff Knechle

March 12, 2005
An Evening of Jazz
Beck, Ryerson & Tookes
Darryl Tookes - Vocals
Ali Ryerson - Flute
Joe Beck - Guitar
Silvermine Tavern
Norwalk, CT

February 22, 2005
Sweet Basil's
New York, NY
Brazilian Jazz
Chris McNulty's CD Release
Darryl Tookes & LaTanya Hall - Vocals

January 22, 2005
Private Event
Darryl Tookes & Joseph Joubert in Concert
Joseph Joubert (2005 Grammy Nominee) - Pianist
Donald Trump Golf Course
Palm Beach, FL

January 17, 2005
United Methodist Church
Martin Luther King Interfaith Program
Darryl Tookes - Solo Piano & Voice
Pastor Edwin Jones
New Canaan, CT

January 16, 2005
Sunday Service
Darryl Tookes Performs
"Lift Every Voice and Sing"
Martin Luther King Celebration
First Presbyterian Church
Stamford, CT

See the website for more details.

March 1
Show Nightclub
135 W 41 St - New York

Live Entertainment - Welcome to Elite Entertainment, the premier booking choice for all of your social functions, business soirees and celebrations. Our diverse and talented pool of performers add polish, levity and enjoyment to any event. With 22 years of experience, we have developed instincts that allow us to spot and develop relationships with truly talented performers. As we specialize in live entertainment, every one of our DJs, musicians, impersonators and dancers work tirelessly to hone their crafts--and it shows.

Live entertainment includes any acts that are observed live on stage at a party, concert, or event. This may include musicians, disc jockeys, emcees, bands, solo artists, and variety acts. Here at Elite Entertainment, we can discuss your plans and objectives so that we can seamlessly match you with the type of entertainment you need for the event you are hosting. Traditional, contemporary, or themed entertainment acts are available to complement any event theme.

Types of Live Entertainment - Disc jockeys and emcees are popular forms of live entertainment for functions such as wedding receptions, bar mitzvahs, corporate events, and parties. DJs can provide an event with a wide variety of music selections. When a variety of musical styles are utilized, you can be sure that the varying musical tastes of guests will be reached. Emcees use their upbeat personalities to host events and make announcements. Emcees can bring a lot of life to events that feature DJ music.

Musicians and bands are commonly utilized at weddings and corporate events. However, they can be used for any type of event, depending on the musical genre you are looking for. For instance, for a mellow gathering, a jazz band, classical guitarist, harpist, or classical group can be chosen. For more upbeat parties, rock bands and cover bands may be more appropriate. A full band is also best for large events, while solo musicians may be used for smaller gatherings.

Bands are a popular choice to lend flair to your event. Our list of available bands includes groups that are highly sought after for their professionalism, experience and raw talent. No one wants a second rate band to dampen their affair; the musical stylings offered by Elite's pool of entertainers are always first rate.

Variety acts and solo entertainers can bring a unique flair to the live entertainment provided at your event. You can choose from balloon artists, clowns, caricature artists, dancers, tattoo artists, cigar rollers, and more with Elite Entertainment. Many enjoy hiring impersonators of Elvis, Elton John, or other famous characters for their events. By utilizing specific acts, you can match the entertainment to the theme of your party or event. Contact Roland Moriarty here at Elite Entertainment to set up entertainment acts for your next function.

Live Entertainment Articles and Resources

Bar Mitzvah Entertainment - Elite Entertainment is the ultimate choice for Bar Mitzvah entertainment. We have worked on thousands of Bar Mitzvahs over the years and our clients have been extremely happy with our services. The main goal of entertainment at Bar Mitzvahs is to provide a fun and entertaining experience for guests at the event. We recommend using Elite Entertainment DJs, emcees, or bands to promote an energetic, yet polished form of entertainment at Bar Mitzvahs.

Options for Bar Mitzvah Entertainment - When you work with the professionals at Elite Entertainment, you will be able to organize Bar Mitzvah entertainment that will meet your every expectation. You can choose music selections, a schedule of events, and a theme that you would like to use in advance. Elite representatives and entertainers will suggest traditional music selections for your candle lighting ceremony and other important moments. Of course, dance music and festive selections can also be determined in advance, if necessary.

Each Bar Mitzvah usually has a specific theme. Some themes that have been used in the past include rock n' roll, sports, casino, karate, and western, or television shows/movies such as "Lost in Space," "Terminator," or "Back to the Future." You may want to use a movie theme that is currently popular or a musical theme that is enjoyed by the guest of honor. Then, you can tailor the music, decorations, lighting, special effects, food, and announcements to match the theme of the party.

Many Bar Mitzvahs have a one-hour cocktail reception prior to the event. This gets the guests warmed up and provides them with some food and beverages that will hold them over until dinner is served. Musical performers or non-musical entertainers can be used at this time. Some options of entertainers include balloon artists, caricature artists, magicians, clowns, themed dancers, or singers. When the actual reception begins, Elite Entertainment recommends using our skilled DJs and emcees to provide first-rate Bar Mitzvah entertainment.

Bar Mitzvah Entertainment Articles and Resources

Booking Agents - Booking agents have the responsibility of booking shows for the artists they represent. They make all arrangements that have to do with shows. Details such as sound, lighting, food, transportation, lodging, budget, and show locations are typically considered by a booking agent. Some booking agents represent entertainers of one particular genre, while others represent a multitude of performers and performance styles.

Entertainment booking is commonly needed for parties and special events, such as weddings, Bar Mitzvahs, corporate events, and other social gatherings. Elite Entertainment is ideal for booking entertainment acts for these events. When you work with Roland Moriarty at Elite Entertainment, he will offer services that are typically provided by booking agents, talent agents, and entertainment managers. The performers represented by the company are incredibly diverse, so there are always many entertainment options to consider for event entertainment.

Using Elite Entertainment Staff as Booking Agents - When booking entertainment for an event with Elite Entertainment, you will have a few choices to make. First of all, you can choose whether you want a DJ, emcee, band, musical soloist, group of musicians, solo entertainer, or variety act to perform at your event. Sometimes, multiple acts will be hired for certain types of events. You may want to use one type of entertainment for the cocktail hour, and another, more lively act when the party gets going.

Most of the booking that is completed at Elite Entertainment deals with musical acts. Almost every party needs some sort of musical entertainment, whether it is background music or the focus of the event. When planning an event, Elite Entertainment provides you with a plethora of musician options, whether you are looking for a jazz band or a lively DJ and emcee. You can also book entertainers such as clowns, magicians, dancers, or caricature artists in addition to booking musical talent for your event.

Booking Agents Articles and Resources

Corporate Event Entertainment - The services of Roland Moriarty at Elite Entertainment are invaluable when corporate event entertainment is necessary. Corporate events may include staff parties, galas, product launches, conferences, store openings, trade fairs, product showcases, and celebrations of company success. Elite Entertainment frequently works with hotel, university, nightclub, and hospitality industries in addition to many other business corporations to organize impressive corporate events.

Choosing Corporate Event Entertainment - The type of corporate event entertainment that you choose will depend on the type of event that you are hosting. For small gatherings or elegant events, a mellow musician or musical group should be chosen. Elite Entertainment offers many choices for these types of events, including jazz musicians, jazz bands, or classical groups. You can also choose from different solo artists, such as harpists, classical guitar players, and saxophone players.

For larger, more upbeat corporate events, you could choose a band or DJ to provide music. Bands are great when you would like to play specific genres of music. If you would like to get extremely specific with music choices, you can also hire an impersonator of performers such as Elton John or Elvis. DJs are best for events where a variety of musical styles should be played. DJs also have the ability to adapt their music to different situations during events.

Sometimes corporate event entertainment involves more than just the music that is being played. Variety acts or entertainers can also be hired to entertain corporate party guests. Some popular choices of entertainers include caricature artists, magicians, balloon artists, cigar rollers, and dancers. With Elite Entertainment, you can even hire an entire dance troupe to put on a show for your guests. Roland Moriarty can help you to choose the best music and entertainers for your next corporate event.

Corporate Event Entertainment Articles and Resources

DJ's - DJ's, or disc jockeys, are desirable for providing music at special events or parties. They may be utilized at any sort of gathering, from bar mitzvahs and weddings to corporate parties or birthday parties. All of the disc jockeys who work with Elite Entertainment are prepared with a supreme selection of song choices and the most advanced sound systems available. Elite Entertainment's, Roland Moriarty can connect you with a DJ who suits your event needs.

Options of DJ's
Many will choose DJ's instead of bands for their events because disc jockeys provide the most musical variety. Disc jockeys can play music from any genre and they can also take requests for any musical selection. Most bands focus on a few musical genres, rather than all of them. Therefore, song requests may not always be met with musicians. However, if you are hosting an event with a specific theme, you may want to utilize musical groups that match that theme. For instance, a party with a Japanese theme may utilize a Japanese Taiko drumming group.

Disc jockeys can also be used to provide themed music at certain events. When you hire a DJ, you can request the type of music that you would like to feature at your party. Sometimes it is wise to play a variety of music selections in addition to selections that match your event theme. Then, guests will not become bored or annoyed with a musical style that is played continuously. At Elite Entertainment, our DJ's are very skilled and they know exactly which song selections are appropriate for different types of parties.

You may want to hire an emcee in addition to a DJ. An emcee can really liven up the mood at events. Their fun and witty personalities and encouraging words will motivate guests to participate in the festivities. Some DJ's are skilled at being both a disc jockey and emcee at one time. In addition to playing and announcing musical selections, DJ's and emcees can make event announcements and encourage guests to have a great time during events.

DJ's Articles and Resources

Entertainment Services - Entertainment services offer everything you need for a successful, dynamic event. You may ask for just a few tips and suggestions, or you may choose complete event planning service that includes every detail imaginable. At Elite Entertainment, we offer professional experience, state-or-the-art equipment, and entertainers who are leaders in the industry. We work very hard to satisfy every request and produce top quality events.

Special events need first-class entertainment that pleases all who attend. Our expertise will help guide you in choosing an appropriate theme and carrying out the details. A casino theme is one popular choice for after dinner entertainment. It is great for fundraising events. Decorations, lighting, dancers, and music will reinforce themes such as The Old West, Las Vegas, or French Follies. The most popular table games are roulette and blackjack. Poker, craps, and many other games are available. Professional croupiers and dealers add to the excitement.

Choosing Entertainment Services - The latest trends will be offered by reputable entertainment services. Years of experience are helpful in directing you to the most successful and reliable entertainment options. At Elite Entertainment, we encourage you to check references and choose a service you feel comfortable with. Early set-up, appropriate attire, and back-up equipment are all important considerations. Make sure you get a written contract with entertainment guarantees.

Audience interaction is a popular request today. One current option is a game show set-up. The audience is divided into teams who cheer for their assigned contestants. Music, lights, sound effects and an announcer are all included. Fun and excitement ensue with questions and answers delivered in a TV show format. Games may be customized to fit a particular theme or organization. Our superior customer service is unique and will make a great difference to the success of any event.

Entertainment Services Articles and Resources

Event Management - Effective event management is usually accomplished by experts. Through many years of professional experience, they know intuitively which choices make a satisfying, memorable event. A corporation may host a large event once a year while a bride and groom may plan their wedding only once in a lifetime. While each example may have ideas for the type of event they envision, they don't have the instincts, knowledge, and expertise of qualified event planners.

Corporate Event Management - Corporate events usually strive to provide rewarding entertainment and relaxation without allowing a raucous, wild celebration. Most businesses want their events to remain professional, dignified, and company-oriented. At Elite Entertainment, we pride ourselves on offering top notch event planning advice from helpful hints to complete development and management. The audience at a large corporate event will have very diverse opinions and tastes. Our experts will find ways to please all attendees, create camaraderie, and guarantee a successful event.

Factors contributing to successful event management are selection of an appropriate date, time, and place, choosing a theme, hiring guest speakers and entertainment, and providing excellent food and beverage service. A pleasant atmosphere is the key to success. It can turn a dull business event into an exciting, memorable occasion. Managing all details, providing impressive entertainment, and fitting all selections into the assigned budget are some of the skills provided by the best event planners.

Entertainment choices are abundant. Many corporations choose nationally recognized singers, bands, or comedians. Other common selections are hypnotists, magicians, jugglers, and artists for caricatures, face painting, or tattoos. Special effects that create extra excitement are laser shows, confetti and streamer displays, and fireworks. Interactive choices such as virtual sports and interactive videos are a growing trend.

Event Management Articles and Resources

Event Planners - Event planners are invaluable for their broad knowledge and successful event planning strategies. They calm nerves, create excitement, and allow you and your guests to enjoy your special event. At Elite Entertainment, we follow your directions and help you plan each detail to create a spectacular celebration. We have access to the most highly regarded planning services which will provide you with the latest trends and innovations.

Services of Event Planners - A successful event requires careful selection of date, time, place, theme, decorations, entertainment, and much more. Live music is a popular choice with virtually any style of music available. Strolling guitarists, jazz trios, Latin dance music, and rock and roll bands are a few of the many options. An event planner will work out details of sound equipment, lighting, and special effects. Another successful option is a disc jockey who will provide taped music to please all tastes.

For event planners, coordination of services is critical to success. Details must be worked out with photographers, videographers, banquet managers, and entertainers. Timing must be carefully planned to avoid conflicts. Entertainment for large events may include elaborate special effects such as confetti blasts, light shows, or fireworks. It takes professional expertise and talent to coordinate all aspects of a large event and create an experience that pleases all in attendance.

Planners have many ideas for special entertainment needs that fit every situation. At Elite Entertainment, we offer a wide variety of special entertainment. Impersonators and look-alikes are popular, as are genuinely famous singers and comedians. Other specialty acts include belly dancers, clowns, magicians, balloon artists, and cheerleaders. Let us help you coordinate an event that will be special and memorable.

Event Planners Articles and Resources

Hire A Band - Hiring a band is an important step when planning an event. There are many choices available which can make or break the musical atmosphere at an event. Considerations may include the size of the venue, theme of the event, and style of the event. Certain bands may be appropriate for formal events, while others are appropriate for more casual or upbeat parties. Here at Elite Entertainment, we can help you to hire a band that fully meets your event planning needs.

Tips on How to Hire a Band - The first consideration to make when hiring a band is the size of the venue. In general, larger spaces need larger sounding bands. A large, loud band is often not appropriate for small gatherings. However, a small band can be utilized for a large party if you wish, as long as the sound system is up to par. Some bands come equipped with their own systems, while some venues supply excellent sound systems as well.

The style of music played by bands is another consideration. This will depend on the size of the venue as well as the theme and style of the event. Formal events may require a more mellow sound, such as a jazz band. On the other hand, rock or cover bands can be hired to add life to large parties or events. These types of bands can often be found at wedding receptions, bar mitzvahs, birthdays, and corporate parties. If you are looking for a specific sound, we can help you to find the right band here at Elite Entertainment.

There are a few basic rules to follow when hiring a band for an event. First of all, if you know of a band you would like to use at your event, start the hiring process immediately. It is always a good idea to book bands in advance because good bands may not be available for hiring at the last minute. It is important not to compromise when hiring a band. Never settle for anything less than what is best for your event. Make sure to request a demo CD if you are unsure about a band so you can listen to their musical style. You may also want to discuss band repertoire and what clothing the musicians will wear for your event.

Hire A Band Articles and Resources

Jazz Musicians - Jazz musicians are desirable entertainers for certain types of events. The complex sounds of jazz music bring joy to many guests and provide a comfortable atmosphere. Jazz music can be used for entertainment purposes, as music for dancing, or even as background music at a party. We offer an extensive collection of jazz performers here at Elite Entertainment. You can choose from groups of jazz musicians or solo artists for your next function.

For those who are a little unfamiliar with the style, jazz is a type of American music that originated in New Orleans in the early 1900s. Ragtime and blues are two major types of jazz music that are appreciated by many. Jazz music is particularly known for its syncopated rhythms, prominent meter, and improvisational melodies. Unlike classical music, jazz is often unpredictable and thrives on musical diversity. Though this style of music may seem complex, jazz can be soothing and enjoyable to listen to at events large and small.

Deciding on Jazz Musicians - Jazz musicians have a specific role when hired for special events. Musicians should take this role seriously by focusing on dress code, proper