Rich Fudoli
jazz legend
I've lived in the neighborhood for about 20 years.I am a musician, jazz and creative. Mostly I play the sax, flute, clarinet. I focus on the reed instruments. The most satisfying aspect of my career is performing with such great artists. I've played with London Symphony, Chicago Symphony and some jazz greats such as Peggy Lee, Ella FItzgerald, Count Basie, Glen Miller Orchestra, Dizzy Gillespie, Doc Severinson. I've also performed with other legends such Jack Benny and Bob Hope. Presently, I play mostly at the Green Dolphin and the Green Mill and on the 95th Floor (Signature Room) of the John Hancock.

I am still growing and one never stops growing as an artist. I am in the best musical shape I have ever been. Even getting older, I feel that I am better than I have ever been. I do all kinds of work. I might play a solo one night; with a band another night. I am fortunate to be able to perform around the world. Two years ago, at the first Jazz Festival in Jerusalem; last year in New Dehli, India. November at Lincoln Center (New York City) at the All New Music Concert.

What is the source of my happiness? I love playing. I don't remember ever not playing. I've played ever since I was three. I can't imagine doing something that I didn't love. I recommend that people simply follow their passion. Do what you were born to do.

Talented saxophonist/flautist plays regularly with the Bill Porter - Rich Fudoli Quintet at Green Dolphin Street with Larry Harris (an excellent pianist), Charles Braughm & Dick Bunn. They've worked together long enough that watching the spontaneous orchestrations is nearly as much a joy as listening to it. When I most recently saw them, Porter & Fudoli rushed in (rather late) from playing for President Clinton at the Democratic National Convention. While they were still changing clothes and setting up their instruments when the show started, they still put on a masterfully focused performance.