About Me
Originally from New Jersey, Vito Chiavuzzo received his BA in Jazz Studies and Performance from William Paterson University (Summa Cum Laude) and went on to attain his Master’s degree from the prestigious Manhattan School of Music. Vito is becoming increasingly active in the New York jazz scene where he has performed in such venues as the Jazz Standard, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola @ Jazz at Lincoln Center, B.B. King’s, the Apollo Theater, and Smith’s Bar as well as at international Jazz Festivals in Monterey (CA), Cork (Ireland), and Rochester (NY). He performs regularly with a variety of big bands as well as with the famous Fins Blues Band. In addition to frequent performances as a member of singer Jessica Elbert's band, Vito plays as part of a duo (with Josh Paris) and trio (adding Chris Smith).He has had the great fortune of playing with such artists as Slide Hampton, George Coleman, James Williams, Maria Schneider, Christian McBride, Michael Mossman, Joe Magnarelli, Jim Rotondi, Dave Stryker, Jon Gordon, the New York Voices, Frank Wess, Bob Mintzer, Rufus Reid, James Spaulding, and Jim McNeely. While attending the Henry Mancini Institute, Vito participated in a Grammy-nominated recording featuring clarinet virtuoso Eddie Daniels and saxophonist Tom Scott. Vito has also recorded with hip-hop artist Redman, gospel artist David Bratton and the Spirit of Praise, and is currently awaiting the release of the talented singer/songwriter Natalie Riccio's newest album on which he plays alto and soprano saxophones, flute, and clarinet.Influenced by a wide range of musicians from Charlie Parker to James Taylor, Vito is gaining wider recognition as a versatile musician who still manages to maintain his own musical identity. In addition to playing from coast to coast in the US, Vito has also performed in Portugal, Germany, Austria, and Ireland.
