We are a Non-Profit 501-C3 organization dedicated to American music preservation by supporting our professional Chicagoland musicians, educational programs, and live music performances featuring classic American songs. At Chicagoland Performing Musicians, our mission is to unite people through the power of live music performances. We believe that music has the ability to connect individuals from all walks of life and foster a sense of community.
I offer professional top talent from a trio to a full-size orchestra for private and public functions, featuring Chicagoland musicians who excel in delivering live music performances. Each ensemble specializes in the preservation of American music styles.
For years, Ron Smolen has been successfully touring and doing what he does best: making beautiful music and entertaining thousands. Throughout the Midwest, his name evokes memories of the Big Band era, showcasing the rich heritage of American music preservation. It’s evident that people all over the Midwest are enjoying the music of Ron Smolen, as the Orchestra, featuring talented Chicagoland musicians, plays many return performances and is busier than ever with a full schedule of both public and private live music performances.
Widely recognized as an exquisite song stylist, contemporary songwriter, and stand-up jazz bassist, The Julie Poncé Experience is a standout among Chicagoland musicians, embodying what’s HIP in Chicago-Style Music. This group offers great listening, dancing, and background music, featuring favorite standard classics, Chicago-Style swing, Latin standards, and jazz renditions of popular songs from both today and yesterday. It's a true GROOVE EXPERIENCE that contributes to American music preservation through its engaging live music performances!
It is hard to believe that this article is from 31 years ago (at the time of this post) 1994. Where does the time go? The photo was taken at the old Knickers Restaurant in Des Plaines, a venue that has been significant for American music preservation. Thank you to the Chicagoland musicians and sidemen who have participated in live music performances over the years.
Former Chairman of the Fine Arts Department and Band Director at Triton College, who has significantly contributed to American music preservation through his involvement with Chicagoland musicians. Past affiliations include performances with the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band and the Greg Pasenko Band, showcasing a deep commitment to live music performances.
Harry Condon, our compliance officer and board member, has always had a passion for music since the age of 7, particularly the American music preservation of the Swing Era of Jazz. In his 20s, he developed a love for Bebop and Dixieland genres, and by his mid-70s, he embraced Ballroom Dancing and its accompanying music. Harry plays a vital role in supporting Chicagoland musicians by managing the logistics of live music performances, including setting up and tearing down for events, as well as dancing with many of our lovely patrons. He believes that we are all soul beings, and music serves as food for the soul of the human spirit.
Steve Cooper is a talented bandleader, trumpet player, and Dance Band music arranger in the Chicago area, contributing significantly to American music preservation. Having served as the 'house band' at Como Inn Restaurant for 17 years and leading the band at Willowbrook Ballroom for 35 years, he has written over 20,000 pages of Dance Band music. Steve continues to perform and create live music performances that dancers and listeners cherish. He has played at parties for notable figures such as Mary Tyler Moore, Liza Minelli, Julie Andrews, Oprah, and the cast of 'Frasier.' His work has delighted not only these big stars but also the 3,000 wedding couples and countless dancers among the Chicagoland musicians community.
Joe Valentino, a professional freelance drummer, has had a passion for drums since the age of 8 and became a professional drummer in 1978. He has played locally, across the United States, and internationally with many talented Chicagoland musicians and entertainers. Known for his versatility across all genres of music, Joe is committed to the American music preservation movement and continues to learn. He also serves as the musical director for the Bourbon & Brass Speakeasy Club in the Des Plaines Theater, where he participates in live music performances.
Roger O'Neal Ingram is a well-accomplished jazz trumpeter, educator, author, and instrument designer who has made significant contributions to American music preservation. He has played trumpet and recorded for many movies, performed at jazz festivals, and toured with renowned Chicagoland musicians and orchestras, including Maynard Ferguson, Woody Herman, Wynton Marsalis, Ray Charles, Louis Bellson, Blue Mitchell, Quincy Jones, Connie Stevens, and Tom Jones, to name just a few. His live music performances continue to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike.
We are a Non-Profit 501-C3 organization dedicated to American music preservation by supporting our professional Chicagoland musicians, educational programs, and live music performances featuring classic American songs. At Chicagoland Performing Musicians, our mission is to unite people through the power of live music performances. We believe that music has the ability to connect individuals from all walks of life and foster a sense of community.