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John Montesante

John Montesante is a passionate Australian jazz trumpet, arranger and band-leader

About Me

John Montesante's first musical passion has always been Jazz. He came to national attention in Australia as a singular Jazz Musician, Composer and Arranger in his twenties, but due to the relatively small 'scene' at that time, needed to diversify to survive as a professional musician...doing session work, playing in various big bands and show orchestras, touring bands,

As arranger, composer and trumpet, he founded Oz's authentic Afro-American Soul Music Extravaganza, the 13 piece Grand WaZoo - in 1981, which still performs today. Then, he introduced his 20 piece Big Band, JM's Café Society Orchestra, and in 1990, his modern jazz combo, John Montesante Quintet (JMQ), performing BeBop & Standards with the best players in the country. That ensemble began a weekly jazz residency in 2004 , which still continues today. During 2013 John formed an expanded 10 x piece version of the jazz band, to breathe life into his new dedicated jazz arrangements. This outfit is called John Montesante Dectet. He performs with all his bands.

John was an expert Jazz Educator for many years, with some of his initiatives included in the Jazz Curriculum. Available for Festivals, Concerts, Venues, Corporate and Private events, Montesante's bands are reputed for their musical quality and unmatched experience.