Live Ensembles

The Richard Gardzina Quartet, Drawing by Bob Nilson

The following are short introductions to the New England ensembles in which Roger performs, available for events ranging from private functions to concerts. Each of these groups, comprised of seasoned professional musicians, covers a different style of music. A sample is provided.

These introductions contain links to more detailed information about the ensembles: websites, booking and contact information, listening files. Just click on the name or picture. In any case, you can contact Roger directly with any questions you may have. He would be very happy to fill in the details. To find the style of music you prefer, just take one of the links on the left.

Classical:

Beautiful Music for Special Occasions

Classical music has gracefully endured through the centuries and into the new millennium because it is timeless. The classical string quartet, comprised of two violins, viola and cello, is considered the premier type of chamber ensemble and possesses the largest repertoire of all, allowing our clients the best choice of music for their special event.

Established in 1985, The Woodvale String Quartet has performed for countless elegant affairs: corporate dinner parties, private receptions and wedding ceremonies. Our years of experience give us the expertise and flexibility to work closely with our client to provide just the right music for their special event.

Listening sample: "Presto" (609KB mp3)

Acoustic Classics:

Ditto

Acoustic Music of the 60s, 70s, 80s

The music of Simon and Garfunkel, Harry Chapin, James Taylor, Crosby, Stills and Nash, and many others, performed by Gary Santarella: vocals, acoustic guitar, 12-string guitar, and harmonica; accompanied by Roger Kimball: acoustic bass, cello, vocals.

This classic music is infused with new life in the hands of these highly experienced musicians, showcased by the perfect blend of acoustic instruments and voices.

Listening sample: "Fire and Rain" (253KB mp3)

Traditional Jazz:

The Harry Skoler Jazz Quartet: www.changingtones.com/skoler.html

Smooth Swing a la Benny Goodman

"Mr. Skoler possesses great tonal beauty. There is a definite 'chamber jazz' feel at work here. 'Refined', 'sophisticated', and 'gently swinging' are other words that spring to mind."
- J.0. Spaak WWUH Jazz Radio News

"While the rest of the jazz world seemingly runs toward the crossover line with alto saxes armed and ready for the next commercial oodles of noodles fest, clarinetist Harry Skoler stands as a breed apart."
- Cub Koda CD Review

Listening sample: "Don't Be That Way" (524Kb mp3)
See Harry with string orchestra on www.YouTube.com.
-More listening and information about his CDs-

Modern/New Age Jazz:

Funky acoustic/electric jazz

A master of improvisation, Richard Gardzina brings his experience with a variety of styles and groups to his performances and compositions. More about his CDs.

About his CD: "'Play This' is a remarkable recording with a tight ensemble that performs with refreshing enthusiasm and energy. Each tune is story-like in quality and provides a fine framework for Gardzina's warm, robust sound. 'Sweet Life Calypso' closes out the CD in a buoyant fashion that will have you playing this CD again and again and again..."
-Alan Chase, Portsmouth Herald

Listening sample: "Kydd's Song" (524Kb mp3)

Jazz Enrichment Program:

Adventures With Jazz: www.adventureswithjazz.net

Jazz education

Designed as a music enrichment program for grades K-12, "Adventures with Jazz" gives both concerts and improvisation clinics that are age-appropriate. This polished New England-based jazz quartet illustrates the creative process of improvisation in an engaging and interactive manner.

Equally at home in nightclub and concert venues, these seasoned professionals are experienced in all styles of jazz, and can help you plan a program for your event.

Listening sample: "Meet the Flintstones" (524Kb mp3)

Jazz with Strings:

North Star Jazz Ensemble with The Woodvale String Quartet

Elegant romantic jazz

In the spirit of the larger jazz orchestra, consisting of a core jazz quartet supplimented with strings (violins, viola, cello), The North Star Jazz Ensemble and The Woodvale String Quartet have joined their talents for a wonderfully warm, elegant jazz sound.

Originally combined to create the CD "Moonlight and Sax" for the North Star Music label, this 8-piece ensemble has consistantly received acclaim in live performance, in both small and large venues. Reminiscent of a scaled-down version of the Nelson Riddle Orchestra or Sammy Spear Orchestra, the ensemble creates a smoother, fuller, more expressive sound without the oppressive volume levels normally found with groups of its size.

Listening sample: "Our Love is Here to Stay" (647KB mp3)