Jim Donica

Los Angeles born and New York based jazz bassist Jim Donica has been playing professionally on the American and international music scenes for over 20 years. He has worked extensively with some of the world’s finest musical artists such as Maynard Ferguson, Joe Strummer, Ron Affif, Chita Rivera, and The David Becker Tribune. His performance credits include John Handy, Pete Christlieb, Peter Erskine, Tom Breckline, Clarence Penn, Cyrus Chestnut, Bruce Barth, Jim McNeeley, Luarence Marable, Vinny Calliuda, and Mike Cain. Jim’s is presently playing dates nationally in support of his new Apria Rrecords release “Jim Donica-Stepping Up”. This recording showcases his composition skills as well as his instrumental artistry. His Sidemen include, Randy Brecker, Peter Erskine, Bruce Barth, Tim Armacost, and Justin Flynn. This record is presently being played on jazz radio across the country. Jim also co-leads the jazz group called Urban Survival. Recently Jim could be found working at Fienstein’s in New York City in Chita Rivera’s critically acclaimed show “And Now I Sing”; playing a jazz cruise with guitar virtuoso Eric Wollman who split the bill with the great Rufus Reid and his trio; and headlining at symphony Space with “Urban Survival”. He fills out his calender working on Broadway shows such as Chita Rivera’s The Dancer’s Life (2005-2007), Charlie Brown and currently the Tony award winning “Ave Q”(2004-present). There is a new recording set for release in early 2008 that includes, Tim Horner- drums, Frank Kimbrough-piano, Tim Armacost-sax, and of course Jim Donica on bass. All the compositions are originals by Jim Donica. Also, Mr. Donica is working on a cross genre collaboration that will culminate in a concert suite for small jazz orchestra and modern dance. Jim has also studied with some of the finest musicians and teachers. Including David Baker, John Pattituchi, Ray Brown, Bunny Brunell, Rufus Reid, Gary Pratt, Ed Meares, Bruce Bransby, and Monte Budwig. Jim attended Cal State University Northridge 1981-1985. From 1985-1990, Jim stayed busy recording and touring with various artists including, David Becker Tribune and extensive tours with Joe Strummer and Maynard Ferguson. After receiving Scholarships to study with the great jazz educator, David Baker at Indiana University, in 1990 Jim returned to college to deepen his development as an artist and composer. In Indianapolis he was in demand as a freelancer and played in David Baker’s “21st Century Bebop Band.” Upon Completion of his studies in 1995, Jim made the big move to New York City where he has been refining his art and staying busy leading his own groups, playing recording sessions, jazz and fusion gigs.