The 42nd Street Band

Carissa started singing and dancing competitively at the age of 5. She took this experience and began performing in bands at the age of 15, and hasn’t stopped since. Before joining 42nd St she appeared with Success, Blues Changes, and The Tony Persia Band. Carissa’s favorite musical styles are blues and jazz. She takes inspiration from vocalists like Natalie Cole, K. D. Lang, and Diana Krall.

Carissa has performed in many musical theater productions including Hello Dolly, Annie Get Your Gun, and West Side Story. She is also a member of the blues band, Bluzberry Pi.

This Connecticut horn man is no stranger to the local music scene. Mike has been playing professionally for over 25 years and is the founding member of The 42nd Street Band. Mike's biggest influence was his dad, Michele Gentile Sr, an accomplished band leader/drummer from Bari, Italy during the 1950's.

Mike's saxophone sound is a unique blend of influences ranging from the smooth jazz sound of Grover Washington Jr. to the fiery sound of Gato Barbieri. He has performed and recorded with numerous bands in the Connecticut region, and is currently a member of the blues band, Bluzberry Pi. Mike has studied with some of the areas finest musicians, including: Roland Rizzo, George Ventrelli, and Ron Campanario. His horns consist of Selmers - Mark VI Tenor, Super 80 Alto, and Buffet Clarinet.

Mike started playing the keyboard at the age of 7. He was formally educated at the Neighborhood Music School with private lessons from pianists in the area. Mike and Jim grew up together and have been playing music together for many years. The pair were a natural addition to 42nd St. Mikes keyboard playing is a nice complement to group, and adds a welcome dimension to the 42nd St sound.

Mike has played with local groups Voyage and Spellbinder. He is also a member of the Blues band, Bluzberry Pi.

With an extensive background in Funk & Fusion Jazz, Performance and Visual Art, Dan brings a progressive edge to 42^{nd street. A very versatile Musician, Singer / Songwriter, Dan has performed and studied with the likes of Rod Morganstien (Dixie Dregs), Steve Morris (Dixie Dregs, Kansas), and Roger Fisher (Heart). Dan has logged countless Studio Sessions with artists spanning many genres of music, including Funk, Fusion Jazz, Progressive Rock, Blues, and Jazz to name a few. Dan also travels nationwide, working with various Dance / Performing Arts Companies, as a Photographer and Music Coordinator.}

Vinny plays guitar in 42^{nd Street and in Bluzberry Pi, a blues and original band he founded in 1995. Vinny started playing guitar in the early 80’s, just before music was taken over by men wearing hairspray and eyeliner. After his education started in Nicky Nasco’s Rock Guitar School, he quickly discovered the blues and allowed it into the heart and soul of his playing. More recently he took the opportunity to study jazz over several years with George Raccio at All Things Musical. Through the variety of music covered by 42nd Street, he enjoys the opportunity to display many of his influences. When he is not making music, he practices the art of rhetoric.}

Jim has been playing the drums for over 35 years. After sitting in on a few Pi gigs, it was evident that Jim was a perfect fit for the band. His eclectic musical background has come together well with the diverse repertoire that 42nd Street has created.

Jim is currently the principal percussionist for the Wallingford Community Band. He has extensive experience freelancing with area bands and was the former leader of Voyage. He has played with The Pat Dorn Big Band, The Sound Alternative, Timeless, and Spellbinder. He is also a member of the blues band, Bluzberry Pi.