RHAPSODY IN WAX is the area’s premier Prohibition-era ensemble. Whether it’s smooth croons, bistro ballads, or hot jazz, Rhapsody In Wax has never failed to engage audiences of all ages and interests. All four members play in a wide range of other musical projects and styles; this brings a freshness to their performance and variety to their repertoire, making Rhapsody In Wax a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
The project began after a series of open mike performaces of standards and originals at the Mad Anthony Brewing Company with Mike Conley. Mark Turney, solo on ukulele, had no idea that audiences would be so enthusiastic to the old school, prohibition-era music. Realizing that ukulele alone could never carry the evening, he set out to find like-minded musicians.
After a few months of trial and error and scheduling conflicts, Turney's hope and determination began to fizzle. Little did he know that the rest of the band was right under his nose!
First came contrabassist Aren Winebrenner, with whom he plays in the Mimi Burns Band. Aren's enthusiasm and willingness to push for the project is what turned Rhapsody In Wax into a reality.
The next was an obvious choice. Tommy Myers has been playing with Turney for over five years on various instruments in various lineups; his years in pit bands on and off Broadway and touring with Geraldine Fitzgerald adds a veritable fount of experience to the ensemble. Lastly, Gwendra appeared at the eleventh hour to share the singing responsibilities and round out the sound with her violin. Always a huge Billie Holliday fan, she adds a depth of timbre and a touch of spice.
MANY THANKS TO LunaFyre FOR THE RHAPSODY IN WAX LOGO! [she can be found at: www.myspace.com/LunaFyre]
