A Twin Cities-based swing Jazz band, performs a timeless jazz tradition commonly known as Jazz manouche, a blend of traditional Roma music and swing jazz. The ‘Hot Club’ jazz tradition brings back happy memories of the swing jazz era. “Gypsy Mania, Central Park, Roseville. It was amazing to see this kind of Minnesota musical talent, so dedicated to the fun and energy of 1930s swing jazz, carry on the tradition with such enthusiasm and skill” . Al Don – Pick Six Minneapolis Star Tribune
Glen Helgeson M.Ed, guitarist, bandleader and composer Composing and performing for nearly four decades, Glen Helgeson has established himself jointly in both world music and in the field of music therapy. He is the leader and guitarist for the bands: Hot Club Mania Quartet (formally known as Gypsy Mania), the Brilliant Colors Jazz Trio and Axis Mundi World-Jazz Ensemble. Several of Glen’s music compositions were chosen as theme music for a Public TV series and another piece was used on Entertainment Tonight. His professional recognitions include: A Minnesota Music Award for “Best Instrumental, Experimental, Environmental” album for his CD Spirit of the Wood; A Minneapolis Walker Art Center commissioned grant for the Sculpture Garden; and the Jazz Composer Grant from the West Bank School of Music. Additionally, Glen received his Masters in Music (1999), a certification in Neurologic Music Therapy (2003) and has practiced Music Therapy for twenty two years.
Ryan Picone is a performer and guitar instructor with twenty years of professional experience. He has performed professionally at many venues, including Town Hall-New York, Dakota Jazz Club – Minnesota, and South by Southwest-Texas. Ryan’s teaching experience comes from his involvement with guitar programs at academic institutions and nonprofit organizations, including College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University, Glendale Community College, Arizona State University, University of Minnesota, Minnesota Guitar Society, Sounds Academy, and Lead Guitar. Ryan performs in the Red Hot Django Peppers and The Ryan Picone Quartet.
Steve Pikal has been playing music professionally for many years and highly regarded as a first call bass player from the Minnesota Twin Cities area jazz scene. He has had the pleasure backing shows with legendary performers such as Cab Calloway, Bob Hope, and Margaret Whiting. He enjoys keeping very active playing locally and nationally touring, recording, plus on many music festival circuits working with top bands and artists from all around the country.
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