Neal Miner

Born and raised in Manhattan, Neal Miner is a bassist and composer steeped in the tradition of swing and bop. Since the opening of Smalls jazz club in Greenwich Village, Neal has been a favored sideman to many musicians there, as well as leading his own groups featuring his original compositions. As an accompanist, he regularly backs jazz legends such as Jon Hendricks, Annie Ross, and Frank Wess; new jazz stars like Jane Monheit, Pete Bernstein, and Grant Stewart. As a band leader and composer Neal often brings the bass to the forefront of his groups and compositions.

Neal, along with Sasha Dobson, Rob Sudduth, and Dred Scott, co-leads a group called the Pacific Jazz Quartet. Check out the band's Myspace page: myspace.com/pacificjazzquartet

Neal has two CDs out as a leader:

• THE EVENING SOUND (2006) - Neal's most current release on the Smalls Records label, captures a sound inspired by his close association with Smalls jazz club for more then a decade. This recording spotlights Neal’s original compositions, as well as each member of the sextet.

• THE REAL NEAL (2001) - Neal's debut recording as a leader on the Juniper Records label. This bass feature recording displays Neal’s love for playing standard melodies, as well as showcasing his own original music.

For more information about Neal and his music, please visit his website: www.nealminer.com