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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.