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Collaborating with Valley View Events

As the bandleader of The Way Band, I’ve played at countless weddings, but every so often, a particular event stands out not just because of the music, but because of the impeccable planning and the people behind it. Such was the case when we performed at a recent wedding on Cayuga Lake in Ovid, NY, […]

mixed culture wedding ceremony

A Cultural Harmony: Mixing Salsa & Rock Bands for a Memorable Wedding

Bringing two cultures together through music is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a musician. Recently, I had the honor of doing just that at a beautiful wedding that combined the rich salsa rhythms of Colombia with the rock and pop vibes of upstate New York. The bride, originally from Colombia, had discovered […]

front of The Barn at Trailwater Lodge

Wedding at Trailwater Lodge

Playing a wedding at Trailwater Lodge was a truly memorable experience. The venue, nestled along the scenic Salmon River in Altmar, NY, provided a stunning backdrop for both the ceremony and the cocktail hour. As a musician, I’ve performed at numerous wedding venues, but the combination of natural beauty, versatile spaces, and the warmth of […]

Dennis at open mic in NC

Feeling Beat Up on Stage

Being a musician is a journey filled with highs and lows, triumphs, and challenges. Last night, I faced one of those challenging moments during an open mic session in Southport, NC. It was a night dedicated to instrumental Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz on solo guitar, a genre that I deeply enjoy but also presents unique difficulties. […]

Salsa Libre at Tioga Downs

My Musical Journey with Salsa Libre

 Playing with Salsa Libre was an exhilarating experience that broadened my musical horizons and deepened my appreciation for the rich tapestry of salsa music. Over the course of three gigs, one at Tioga Downs with an 8-piece ensemble and another at Rumble Ponies Ballpark in Mirabito Stadium with a smaller 5-piece band, I had the […]

people dancing to The Way Band

The Way Band’s Memorable Return to a Private Party

We just played a private party with The Way Band last night, marking our second time at this wonderful venue. Having performed there last summer, it was a delight to see how the host had expanded the event. With new additions like a bouncy castle for the kids and extra tents and chairs for guests, the […]

Blue Train playing Crossroads live

Reflections on Receiving My First Public Criticism

Recently, my band Blue Train posted a cover of Cream’s “Crossroads” on YouTube. The performance received a comment that, when translated from German, reads: “Sounds completely clumsy; it makes you realize what you had in the original. Maybe you should start by adding some simpler blues numbers to the setlist. You’re covering a piece by […]

Salsa Ithacana Trio close up

Salsa Ithacana: A Perfect Blend of Music and Atmosphere

Playing a gig with my band Salsa Ithacana at Liquid State North Shore in Romulus was a fun experience. This event stood out not only because of the music but also due to the unique setting and the warm, family-friendly atmosphere of the venue. The Vibrant Atmosphere Liquid State North Shore, known for its high-quality, […]

kids dancing at family party to live music

Family Party in Rochester

There’s something uniquely special about performing at family gatherings. These events brim with warmth, joy, and the collective energy of close-knit groups coming together to celebrate milestones. Recently, I had the pleasure of playing at a surprise party for a 36-year-old in a beautiful backyard in a Rochester suburb. The experience was both challenging and […]

abstract electric guitar image

My Journey Through Diverse Musical Styles:

As a musician, one of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been the opportunity to explore and master a wide range of musical genres. Each style presents its own unique challenges and joys, enriching my musical journey and broadening my perspective as a guitarist. From the high-energy riffs of punk rock to the […]