David Wells

David Wells began playing saxophone at the age of 11 in Novato, CA. He had the great fortune of studying at a young age with two of the Bay Area's greatest saxophonists and teachers, Ron Stallings and fellow Novato resident Mel Martin. He graduated from San Marin H.S. in 1993 and also played lead alto in the Calfornia All State Jazz Band that year. He continued his musical education at University of Colorado and California State University Hayward. During these years he had the privlidge to perform with an amazing list of musicians, including Joe Henderson, Michael Brecker, Conrad Herwig, Bob Berg, Louie Bellson, Red Holloway, Conte Condoli, and Gerald Wilson. While still in college David was recruited by L.A. bandleader and saxophonist Matt Catingub to join his new band, Big Kahuna and the Copa Cat Pack. The band recorded the album "Hawaiin Swing" for the Concord Jazz label and formed a musical relationship with the legendary Rosemary Clooney, accompanying her in concert and in the studio. Highlights include performances at the Stuttgart Jazz Festival with Lionel Hampton and at the Concord-Fujitsu Jazz Festival with the Count Basie Orchestra. David has also worked with a wide array of artists, ranging from funk pioneer Zigaboo Modeliste to comedy legend Don Rickles. He has studied privately with George Garzone, Mel Martin, Larry Schneider, Kenny Brooks, and Dann Zinn. His most recent recording "The Garden Above" on the Invisible Music label was named one of the Top 10 Albums of the Year by the Portland Phoenix. He is currently living in Windham, Maine with his wife and daughter where he continues to work as a performer and educator. He teaches music at Bates College, Westbrook High School, and has a large private studio teaching both saxophone and improvisation. realeditorbest profile toolsrealeditorbest profile tools