CT
The Jazz Unit offers high-quality acoustic modern jazz music. Whether performing originals or standard jazz masterpieces, this spirited ensemble is dedicated to the future of this important and illustrious American art form. Recent gigs within the last five years include Greater Hartford Jazz Festival, Many Colors of a Women Jazz Festival, featured artist Norwich Arts Council, Saint Joseph College West Hartford, Ct, Windsor Arts Center, Buttonwood Tree Arts Center, Levvitt Pavilion Jazz series, Haftford Jazz Society Monday Night Bushnell Park Jazz Series, Hartford Public Library Baby Grand Jazz Sereis and many others.
Trumpeter and vocalist Ricky Alfonso has a style steeped in swing, blues and modern jazz. With a trumpet voice reminiscent of Miles, Freddie Hubbard and Lee Morgan, he has long since developed a very personal musicality on the trumpet and vocals.
In a long and diverse musical career that includes a stint with rock icon Joe Cocker, Ricky has also worked with jazz luminaries including Mario Pavone, Michael Mussillami, Bill Lowe, Ed Blackwell, Joe Fonda, Thomas Chapin, Andy Jaffee, Fred Simmons and the late Bill Barron.
A composer, arranger and educator, he has earned degrees in music education and has taught in his studio and in the classroom for many years.
Ricky’s current group, The Jazz Unit, performs modern jazz standards and original compositions as he carries on the tradition of high quality swing and modern jazz improvisation. Always looking forward to future performing and recording projects, Ricky can be found performing in many of New England’s best jazz venues.
Additional Content:
The Jazz Unit at the Buttonwood Tree
Amadora, an original composition
The Jazz Unit at Windsor Arts Center
Nice Eyes, a Charlie Haden Composition
Interview with Darrell W. Fitzgerald Show
Edited version of interview on The Truth Hurts.
Institution/Business Type:
Performing Group
Legal Status:
Commercial / For profit - Sole proprietorship
Year Founded:
1990
Institution/Business Type:
Performing Group
Legal Status:
Commercial / For profit - Sole proprietorship
Year Founded:
1990
Primary Discipline:
Music - JazzAdditional Disciplines:
Activities and Services:
Populations Engaged:
Geographic Reach:
Professional Associations:
Professional Associations:
Fee Range:
$850 - $1,500State of Residence:
ConnecticutFee Range:
$850 - $1,500State of Residence:
Connecticut