Bill Mays Jazz Ensemble, A Jazzy Holiday

Bill brings his fun and fanciful jazz arrangements of holiday music to give us a little holiday cheer this season.  “Mays was a commanding presence at the piano, rolling through lines that raised echoes of Earl Hines and Duke Ellington” said John Wilson, New York Times. He is “one of the masters of color and touch among today’s pianists...” raves Doug Ramsey of JazzTimes. 

Bill Mays’ career as a professional musician spans the last 60 years and includes a multitude of musical endeavors.  Following four years as a bandsman in the U.S. Navy, Bill spent 15 years as a session player in Hollywood studios.  In 1984 he relocated to New York City, firmly establishing himself as an in-demand sideman and leader of his own ensembles.  He has worked with jazz legends Benny Golson, Shelly Manne, Red Mitchell, Gerry Mulligan, Bud Shark, Frank Sinatra, Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Sarah Vaughan and Phil Woods.  His many recordings as a leader (solo, duo, trio and sextet) are well-documented on the Chiaroscuro, Concord, DMP, Palmetto, Steeplechase and Sunnyside record labels. 

A prolific composer and arranger, Mays has written extended suites for bass, flute, woodwind septet and pieces for big band and orchestra.  His latest recording includes Phil & Bill (duo wit saxophonist Phil Woods), Front Row Seat (solo), Mays Plays Mays (trio/quintet) and Autumn Serenade (trio). His songs have been used in movies and in television and his keyboard work has been heard on hundreds of film soundtracks. He has also received rave reviews with the publication of his first book, Stories of the Road, The Studios, Sidemen & Singers: 55 Years in The Music Biz. www.billmays.net