Artist description The band is a four piece group which includes piano, bass, drums, sax and clarinet.

Music Style Swing, jazz, easy listening and vocals very much in the style of the 1940s songbirds

Musical Influences Judy Garland, Liza Minnelli, Doris Day & Billie Holiday

Similar Artists Michelle's vocals have been compared to those of Doris Day for their smooth sound.

Artist History The band members are friends who have worked together on and off for many years. Last year they came together with Michelle Russell to create a new romantic and exciting sound in the tradition of 1930s, 40s and 50s music. Gary Pace is a well-known jazz pianist, arranger and composer. He was music director at the Gaslight Club as well as house pianist at the Village Gate in New York City. One of his songs, "Here's Looking at You" appears in the film, "Hide in Plain Sight" starring James Caan. Willie Wayman has played bass through the country with such jazz greats as Max Kaminsky and Wild Bill Davidson. Artie Miller plays sax and clarinet with his own band in the New York area. Harry Wells played drums with the Big Bands of yesteryear, including the Charlie Spivak Band. He has worked with other jazz bands and society groups all along the East Coast. Michelle Russell has performed in theater, film and clubs on both East and West Coasts. She appeared in the film, "Back to School" with Rodney Dangerfield and also created the living history program at the Judy Garland Birthplace in Grand Rapids, MN.

Group Members Gary Pace on piano, Willie Wayman on bass, Harry Wells on drums, Artie Miller on sax and clarinet and Michelle Russell on vocals.

Instruments Piano, bass, drums, clarinet & tenor sax

Albums Michelle Russell & The Moonlight Band

Press Reviews [The Moonlight Band] is really typical of the big band era singing. That's what you call, America. That's part of our culture; the Michelle Russell sound..." Joe Franklin, WOR Radio

Additional Info Soon to be recorded,

Location Jersey City, NJ - USA

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