Projects

• "Free Flying Bird" is is now available on itunes, CDbaby, Amazon, and select retailers.

Photo by Cynthia Malaran

"Free Flying Bird" features contemporary jazz, displayed in an enticing array of idioms, including samba, bossa nova, Latin jazz, rock, funk and more. The album showcases Laura on saxophones and flutes, as well as her original compositions and arrangements. She is supported by a talented and versatile group of musicians, including pianist Kerry Politzer, drummer George Colligan, and Itaiguara on bass and acoustic guitar. Together with guitarist Jane Getter, percussionist Carlos Darci, and a wonderful string quartet, they weave their way through the pieces with strength, energy, and passion, creating a synthesis of jazz solos as seen through many different lenses. "Free Flying Bird" contains an additional bonus track that also spotlight's Itaiguara's bass work, along with acclaimed Brazilian drummer Portinho, pianist Klaus Mueller, and trombonist Noah Bless.

Laura Dreyer - alto, soprano saxophones, flute, alto flute
Kerry Politzer - piano
Itaiguara - bass, acoustic guitar
George Colligan - drums
Jane Getter - acoustic and electric guitar
Carlos Darci - percussion
Zoran Jakovcic - violin, viola
Brian Snow - cello
Klaus Mueller - keyboards
Portinho - drums
Noah Bless - trombone

• In 2010, I was fortunate to have received two grants from the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council to produce a live concert. As a result of these funds, The New York Brazilian Jazz Funk Project performd at an exciting concert at Church Street School for Music & Art in Tribeca. Check out the video!

• "Beira do Mar" (from my CD Mysterious Encounter) was selected to be on the recent compilation CD "In Concert...2009" which benefits the Local 802 Muscian's Relief Fund. CDs can be purchased here.

• We were very excited to have our CD release party in June 2005 at Birdland Jazz Club in New York City. We couldn't have done this without the help of our sponsors JodyJazz Saxophone and Clarinet Mouthpieces, and Roberto's Woodwind. In 2005 and 2006 we were able to donate funds to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, Breast Cancer Action, and to The Sarcoma Foundation. "Sax in the City" also received special honors from Bob Bernotas of WNTI-FM as one of the best CDs released in 2005. Link to Sax in the City on Myspace.

• Saxophonists--check out Jody Jazz saxophone mouthpieces. These mouthpieces are designed by saxophonist Jody Espina and are very well made. I find that the mouthpieces offer a lot of versatility, especially for the player that performs in many different contexts. Visit the Jody Jazz website at www.jodyjazz.com. P.S. I LOVE the JodyJazz DV for alto sax AND tenor sax. It is truly amazing!

• I am also endorsing Legere reeds. This company has been known for primarily manufacturing superb synthetic clarinet reeds and has recently come out with a new cut specifically designed for jazz & contemporary saxophonists. This new line is called the "Studio Cut" and they play fantastic.