Andersen, Chris:  Chris Andersen is the owner and chief engineer at Nevessa Studios near Woodstock.  Andersen has served as the sound engineer for numerous projects since 1975.  He has worked with legendary recording artists, including Woodstockers John Herald, John Sebastian, Amy Fradon, Happy Rhodes, Jay Unger and Molly Mason, Graham Parker, Big Sister, NRBQ, Orleans, Todd Rundgren and many more.  http://www.nevessa.com

Andersen, Eric: Pittsburgh native Eric Andersen has maintained deep connections to Woodstock for decades. Among many Woodstock connections were his collaborations with Band legend Rick Danko. In fact, in the '90s, Andersen produced two albums as a trio with Danko and Jonas Fjeld. Overall, Andersen's career stretches out more than three decades. As a singer/songwriter he has recorded numerous albums and has toured extensively. Moreover, the self-taught guitarist has had his songs recorded by the likes of Judy Collins, Linda Ronstadt and The Grateful Dead. He is considered a classic American songwriter. He lives mainly in New York City and in his home near Oslo, Norway. http://www.ericanderson.com  

Ashton, John: British musician and record producer John Ashton is best known as the guitarist for The Psychedelic Furs, an alternative punk band formed in England in 1977. Their success in the U.S. came with their 1981 release "Talk Talk Talk," which contained the hit song "Pretty in Pink," later used in the 1986 film of the same name. Their third album, "Forever Now," was produced by Todd Rundgren at Bearsville Studios. "Forever Now" was the Furs first U.K. Top 20 album and contained their biggest Top 40 U.S. hit to date, "Love My Way." The Furs disband in the early '90s, but rejoined in 2000 and released a live album, "Beautiful Chaos: Greatest Hits Live." During his time off from the Furs, Ashton spent time producing and performing with Red Betty, Mercury Rev, Seven Color Sky and Woodstock-based Spiv. Ashton currently resides in Woodstock.

The B-52's: The B-52's were formed in the mid 1970s and consisted of Cindy Wilson, Kate Pierson, Fred Schneider, Ricky Wilson and Keith Strickland. The group launched its debut album, "the B-52's," in 1979. In 1980, "Wild Planet" reached the Top 20 album charts in the U.S. The follow-up album, "Party Mix!," was released in 1981. Ricky Wilson's death in October 1985 - which was first ruled as natural causes, then later declared caused by AIDS - shocked fellow members, in particular Rick's younger sister Cindy. It wasn't until several years later the band released "Cosmic Thing," which contained the hits "Roam" and "Love Shack." Wilson left the group in 1990, but returned on "Time Capsule" in 1998.  The group, sans Wilson, performed the theme song to the film version of The Flintstones in 1994.  The B-52s still spend time on the road touring and writing new music.  Pierson and Schneider are longtime Woodstock residents. http://www.theb52s.com

Bad Brains: Formed in 1979 by Gary Miller, Bad Brains was a groundbreaking hardcore punk group. Miller - performing under the name Dr. Know - joined with Paul Hudson, Earl Hudson, and Darryl Jenifer.  Bad Brains has produced nearly a dozen recordings, including their cassette-only "Bad Brains" and "Rock for Light," produced by Ric Ocasek. After several breakups and personnel changes, the original band members reunited again in 1998, touring under the name Soul Brains. In the '90s, and occasionally in recent years, some band members played gigs in local clubs as the Defiant Ones.  http://www.badbrains.com

The Band: The Band was considered one of the most influential rock groups in the world from 1968 to 1975 -- and one of the greatest in the history of rock music. And Band members are ingrained -- deeply ingrained -- in the Woodstock community and legacy. Ronnie Hawkins and Levon Helm, both from Arkansas, teamed to create Ronnie Hawkins & the Hawks. They started recording in 1958 throughout the South and in Canada, and eventually signed on Scott Cushnie and Robbie Robertson. Robertson joined the band on bass, then later shifted to guitar. Later joining the Hawks were Rick Danko on bass, Richard Manuel on piano and back-up vocals and Garth Hudson on organ.  Hawkins left the group in 1963, but The Hawks stayed together with Helm, renaming themselves Levon & the Hawks and the Canadian Squires. The group was later introduced to Bob Dylan, a difficult collaboration that would forever change the dynamics of the group. The Hawks went from playing rock and roll to a gritty, electric-based folk sound. The group eventually toured with Dylan as his first electric backup band in 1966 without Helm. They later fell under the management of Albert Grossman, who convinced the members -- minus Helm -- to relocate to Woodstock with Dylan. That collaboration produced the "Basement Tapes." Grossman landed them a contract with Capital Records and the group was officially renamed The Band. Helm returned to the group and they recorded "Music From Big Pink." The Band's second album, entitled "The Band," was released in 1969 and the group's popularity soared -- the hit "Up on Cripple Creek" earned them a spot on The Ed Sullivan Show. The Band went on to record "Stage Fright," "Cahoots," "Rock of Ages," "Moondog Matinee" and Bob Dylan's "Planet Waves." The Band later released their "best-of" album in 1976, before the group stopped touring. Their last album was "Islands." Martin Scorsese's film The Last Waltz was their farewell concert. Danko, Robertson and Helm went on to pursue solo careers, until The Band reunited in 1983 on a tour, sans Robertson. They went on to release "Jericho" in 1993 - without Manuel, who died in 1986 - and "High on the Hog" in 1996. In 1998, The Band celebrated their 30th anniversary by releasing "Jubilation." Death of members Manuel and Danko, who died in his sleep on December 10, 1999 at his home in Woodstock, cut short any future endeavors. Helm and Hudson are longtime Woodstock-area residents and frequently perform in town.  http://theband.hiof.no

^ Back to Top

Bell, Richard: Hailing from Canada, keyboardist and former Woodstocker Richard Bell was a member of The Hawks in the late 1960s, which also included Levon Helm. He relocated to Woodstock in the early '70s, working at Bearsville Studios as a session musician. He replaced Richard Manuel when The Band reformed in 1991, following Manuel's death. And he's worked with legends like Paul Butterfield, Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Bonnie Raitt, John Sebastian, Joe Walsh and many others. He appeared in Festival Express, a 2003 documentary about a '70s train tour across Canada with The Grateful Dead, The Band and Joplin. Bell performed at Helms Midnight Ramble in January 2006 with The Honky Tonk Gurus. He passed away June 15, 2007, after a bout with cancer.  Bell was 61.

Berger, Karl: German-born Karl Berger is a jazz composer, pianist and vibraphone player. Berger has worked with some of the biggest names in jazz: Horace Arnold, Don Cherry, Ornette Coleman, Woodstockers Marilyn Crispell and Jack DeJohnette, Don Ellis, Bill Laswell and Leo Wright, just to name a few. In the early '70s, he was named Best Jazz Vibraphone Player of the Year for Down Beat magazine 6 years in a row. Berger is the co-creator of the Creative Music Studio in Woodstock, founded in 1971. His studio was considered the front-runner for exploring and promoting non-traditional, creative music in the '70s and early '80s. The studio catered to well-known artists from all types of musical backgrounds before closing in the mid-'80s. http://www.karlberger.com or http://www.creativemusicstudio.org

Bernhardt, Warren: Longtime New Yorker and currently a Hudson Valley resident, Warren Bernhardt was born in Wausau, WI.  Bernhardt studied music and classical piano at a young age -- his father was a pianist and teacher.  He joined and began touring with Paul Winter's jazz sextet in the early 1960s. And he was co-leader of Steps Ahead, a jazz fusion band in the mid-'80s.  Over the decades, Bernhardt has collaborated with many legendary artists, including George Benson, Jack DeJohnette, Richie Havens, Liza Minnelli, Carly Simon and many, many others. Bernhardt was the pianist with Steely Dan on their 1993 and 1994 tours in the U.S. and Japan and he toured with Simon and Garfunkel on their 2003-2004 "Old Friends" tour. Additionally, Bernhardt received several awards, conducted countless jazz workshops and recorded numerous instructional materials for Woodstock-based Homespun Tapes.  http://www.warrenbernhardt.com

Bitterman, Michael:  Midnight Modulation owner and main engineer Michael Bitterman has written music for videos, films, TV, radio and Broadway musicals.  Bitterman has worked with The Beatles' manager Alan Klein and Albert Grossman, manager for The Band, Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Todd Rundgren and more.  He had produced and/or engineered numerous albums, working with artists such as John Sebastian, NRBQ, Graham Parker and John Hall.  http://www.midmod.com

Black, Marc: A decades-old player on Woodstock's and the Hudson Valley's prestigious music scene, Black is the composer, arranger and musician behind Black Market Music. His unique grasp of a number of different music styles has been put to use in creating commercial music and in a number of live incarnations that have graced Woodstock and Hudson Valley venues for decades. In recent years, he could be found leading the Funky Sex Gods, blending, as usual, a number of diverse styles - in this case: funk, psychedelic and basic rock. www.marcblack.com

Bley, Carla:  Carla Bley was born Carla Borg in Oakland, CA, the daughter of musician parents. She was exposed to music at an early age, playing piano and singing in a church choir. Bley became interested in jazz at 19 and moved to New York City.  She eventually met, and married, jazz pianist Paul Bley and began traveling with him and writing music for his band. Bley and second husband, trumpeter Michael Mantler, formed the Jazz Composers Guild Orchestra and the Jazz Composers' Orchestra Association, designed to further the interests of jazz musicians and promote unconventional jazz forms. Bley's career finally took off in 1967 when her "A Genuine Tong Funeral" was recorded by Gary Burton's quartet. Bley's work includes the jazz opera "Escalator Over the Hill" and writing the music for the soundtrack to the 1985 movie Mortelle Randone.  Bley has worked with many notable musicians, including Jack Bruce and Linda Ronstadt, and has performed at the Newport and Montreal jazz festivals and Carnegie Hall, among many others.  She continues to compose and record for her own label, Xtra Watt, while playing, recording and touring with her band, Very Big Carla Bley Band, and bassist Steve Swallow.  Bley has over two dozens albums to her credit.  She is a local.  http://www.wattxtrawatt.com

Block, Rory: Blueswoman Aurora "Rory" Block was born in Princeton, NJ and raised in Manhattan.  She is considered one of the top acoustic, old country blues performers.  Block's father owned a sandal shop in Greenwich Village, frequented by musicians like Bob Dylan and John Sebastian, so Block quickly became interested in music. She began sitting in on Sunday afternoon jam sessions in Washington Square Park and, at age 12, she worked with her father on the Elektra String Band. Block began traveling with Skip James and mentor John Hurt and developed her slide technique, using a socket wrench, while in Berkeley, CA.  She released her first record, "I'm in Love," in 1975.  She received several NAIRD and Handy awards, including Best Adult Contemporary Album of the Year and Traditional Blues Female Artist of the Year. And she was inducted into the CAMA Hall of Fame in 1997. Additionally, Block has recorded instructional blues guitar tapes and videos and won an award for her children's record.  She has worked with numerous artists, including The Band, Jorma Kaukonen, Bonnie Raitt, Mike DeMicco and many others.  Several of her instructional videos and tapes can be found at Woodstock-based Homespun Tapes. http://www.roryblock.com

Blues Magoos: With roots in 1960s' Bronx, NY, the Blues Magoos have lasting connections to Woodstock, too. In its day, the Magoos were an essential player on Greenwich Village's emerging rock scene. Though criticized by some at the time for stage antics that too literally played off the psychedelic themes of the era, to this day the band's influence is considered far reaching. Original band members included Emil "Peppy" Thielhelm on vocals and guitar; Ralph Scala on vocals and organ; Michael Esposito on guitar; Ronnie Gilbert on bass; and Geoff Daking on drums. The band's relatively short reign ended in 1972. But the 1966 single, "We Ain't Got Nothin' Yet," and the debut album, "Psychedelic Lollipop," are still remembered today. And Michael Esposito is very visible in town, where he frequently plays in various bands, including Marc Black's Funky Sex Gods, and operates his bicycle shop. Scala also moved to the region and lives with his wife/musician Beki Brindle. http://www.thebluesmagoos.com

^ Back to Top

Breed, Stuart: Stuart Breed was born in Stepney, England and has been Art Garfunkel's sound engineer since 1984.  Breed first worked with Garfunkel on "The Animals' Christmas."  It is performed by Garfunkel and Amy Grant, along with the London Symphony Orchestra and the Kings College School Choir.  Breed learned his craft from two giants in the engineering business: Roy Halee from Simon and Garfunkel and Geoff Emerick from The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper" album.  Additionally, Breed has worked with Paul McCartney, Bryan Ferry, Art of Noise and Yes.  Breed is a current resident of Woodstock.

Brindle, Beki: Indianapolis native Beki Brindle, who lives in the region with her husband, Ralph Scala (Blues Magoos), first landed her hands on a guitar when she was 4 years old. Through her early years, she won music competitions and began writing music. In the early '80s, she visited Woodstock and began playing with folk mainstay Tom Pacheco and Eric Anderson. Her early Woodstock tenure also saw her play with Rick Danko, Richard Manuel and John Sebastian. When she joined Pacheco and his band in moving to Dublin, Ireland, Brindle enjoyed considerable recognition. Her success on the national TV show, "Nighthawks," made her even more notable in Ireland. So much so, in fact, that U2's Bono asked her to conduct a blues workshop at a school that was the focus of a show called "Jo Maxi." The show was another success in Ireland for Brindle. She eventually returned to New York in the late 1990s. www.bekibrindle.com

Brubeck, Dan: Drummer/percussionist Dan Brubeck is the fourth son of the legendary Dave Brubeck, a household name in the jazz world. Brubeck formed The Dolphins in 1987, along with guitarist Mike DeMicco, bassist Scott Petito (later replaced by Rob Leon) and keyboardist Vinnie Martucci. The Dolphins, a Woodstock-based band, released three albums: "Malayan Breeze," "Old World New World" and "Digital Dolphins." Brubeck was co-leader of The Brubeck Laverne Trio that included brother Chris Brubeck and pianist Andy Laverne, and he was a member of the Dave Brubeck Quartet. With Chris, he formed Brubeck Brothers Quartet, along with DeMicco on guitar and Pete Levin on piano and organ.  Brubeck has recorded/toured with fellow Woodstockers The Band, Paul Butterfield, Warren Bernhardt and others. He left the Woodstock area years ago for the west coast.  http://www.brubeckmusic.com/dan.html

Burgh, Steve: Producer, engineer, songwriter Steve Burgh played and/or collaborated with great legends, such as David Bromberg, Billy Joel, Richie Havens, The Ramones and many others.  He was the guitarist on Joel's album "The Stranger," which won a Grammy award for the song "Just the Way You Are."  Burgh played locally in the Kurt Henry Band, with fellow members Henry, Alan Groth, Eric Parker and Cheryl Lambert.  Burgh died of a heart attack Feb. 7, 2005, at the age of 54. At the time of his death, Burgh was owner of Club 33 and was the owner/engineer of Studio 33 in Kingston.

Burke, Gary: Drummer and Woodstock-area resident Gary Burke is well known in the region and among music fans across the nation, if not the globe. His career has found him performing and/or recording with Bob Dylan, Joe Jackson and Graham Parker, among many others. He's frequently a player in town and the Hudson Valley, too, playing primarily with The Crowmatix. Also on Burke's resume is a stint as a percussionist with the Radio City Music Hall Orchestra for several years in the 1980s.

Butterfield, Paul: Blues master Paul Butterfield, born in Chicago and credited with dragging the blues harp over the rock/blues line, lived and worked in Woodstock in the early 1970s. From his early days playing with Michael Bloomfield to backing Bob Dylan, Butterfield is another in a long line of enduring Woodstock legends. He performed at the '69 festival and worked with Muddy Waters, Little Walter Jacobs and a host of other blues/rock greats. Various health problems hit him hard in his later years, and he died in 1987 in Los Angeles of a drug overdose. To this day, Butterfield stories are plentiful in town and his musical influence has remained powerful.

^ Back to Top

Campbell, Larry: Multi-instrumentalist Larry Campbell was born and raised in New York City. He is best known for his stint as a member of Bob Dylan's "Never Ending Tour" band from 1997 to 2004. Campbell has played in numerous bands, including Cottonmouth, The Dixie Doughboys and The John Herald Band. Additionally, he's worked with such legendary artists as Elvis Costello, Sheryl Crow, Levon Helm, David Johansen, B.B. King, Cyndi Lauper and Willie Nelson, among many others. He's a frequent guest artist at Helm's Midnight Rambles, held at Helms private studio in Woodstock. The Rambles are one of the hottest tickets in town, quickly selling out and drawing people from all over the world. And he's played for the Woodstock Mountain Revue, along with Greenbriar Boys' Herald, banjoist Bill Keith, John Sebastian, brothers Artie and Happy Traum and others. Campbell's considered one of the best stringed musicians around. http://members.cox.net/larrycampbell2000

Cashdollar, Cindy: Grammy-award winning, multi-instrumentalist Cindy Cashdollar grew up on a Woodstock dairy farm, influenced by the area's musicians. She currently plays steel and Dobro, a wood body guitar with a single cone and spider-like base, and is considered one of the best steel and Dobro players in the country.  She can be found on Bob Dylan's "Time Out of Mind," a Grammy-winning Album of the Year for 1997, and she was named Instrumentalist of the Year for 2003 by the Academy of Western Artists Awards. She spent 8 years with Asleep at the Wheel and has worked and/or toured with former Band members Levon Helm and the late Rick Danko, Graham Parker, The Dixie Chicks, Reba McEntire and Willie Nelson, as well as others.  Her debut solo CD, "Slide Show," was released in 2004. The final track, "Locust Grove," is a tribute to her family's farm in Woodstock. Additionally, Cashdollar has released several instructional videos for Woodstock-based Homespun Tapes. http://cindycashdollar.com

Ciarlante, Randy: Drummer/vocalist Randy Ciarlante, longtime resident of the region, has been playing professionally since the mid-1960s. He was recruited into The Band in 1990, singing Richard Manuel's parts and doubling with Levon Helm on drums. He can be heard on three of The Band's albums.  Ciarlante's talents range from blues to R&B to jazz to Latin.  He's collaborated and/or toured with numerous artists, including Eric Anderson and Taj Mahal. He's played and composed with Jim Weider for years and lends his vocals, drumming and writing talents to The Jim Weider Band.

Cobb, Jimmy: Self-taught legendary jazz drummer Jimmy Cobb is most notably known for his work with Miles Davis. In addition to his career with Davis, Cobb also played with numerous legends, including Billie Holiday, Pearl Bailey and Dizzy Gillespie, before joining Davis. Throughout the 1970s, Cobb worked with female jazz great Sarah Vaughan and with the Joe Albany Trio in the 1980s. Over the years, Cobb has performed for numerous dignitaries, including President Carter and the Shah of Iran. Currently, he tours with his band, Cobb's Mob, and splits his free time between New York City and Woodstock. He is the last surviving player from Davis' classic recording "Kind of Blue. http://www.jimmycobb.com 

Coryell, Murali: Singer and guitarist Murali Coryell is a young, crafty guitarist who frequently plays Hudson Valley clubs and venues. He glides seamlessly between funk, blues, R&B and rock, and on his CD "Eyes Wide Open," showed his polished skills at crafting textured tunes. He is the son of guitar great Larry Coryell and even toured with dad and Duke Robillard, among others. A Hudson Valley resident, Coryell is trained in music theory and tours frequently. www.muralicoryell.com

Crenshaw, Marshall: Singer/songwriter (and at least occasional Woodstock resident) Marshall Crenshaw was born in Detroit and has dabbled in just about everything: he created a collection of his own work, he's been in several movies and, after answering an ad in Rolling Stone, he landed a role in Beatlemania as a John Lennon understudy. Crenshaw's resume includes over a dozen albums.  Other credits include composing and performing the original music for a PBS documentary and writing the theme song for several TV shows, including Sex and the City. And his songs have appeared on numerous movie soundtracks, such as "Rock On" from Superman 3, "You Belong To Me," from Peggy Sue Got Married and "Crying, Waiting, Hoping," from La Bamba, just to name a few. Crenshaw also appeared in Peggy Sue Got Married, playing a high school bandleader and as Buddy Holly in La Bamba.  It wasn't until his debut single, "Something's Gonna Happen," that he landed a contract with a major record label - he signed with Warner Brothers in 1982 and recorded five albums, including "Marshall Crenshaw." http://www.marshallcrenshaw.com

Crispell, Marilyn: Classical/jazz pianist Marilyn Crispell hails from Philadelphia, PA, but has been a Woodstock-area resident since 1977.  She relocated to Woodstock in order to study and teach at the Creative Music Studio, a premier music studio founded in 1971 by Karl Berger.  She was a member of several prestigious groups, including the Anthony Braxton Quartet, Reggie Workman Ensemble, the Henry Grimes Trio and her own group, the Marilyn Crispell Quartet, just to mention a few.  Crispell's collaborated with many well-known artists over the years, such as Barry, Guy, Anthony Davie and Eddie Prevost.  Her resume also includes several teaching grants and fellowships and her stint as artist director of the Vancouver Creative Music Institute.  Her complete discography -- which is extensive -- can be found at:  http://www.marilyncrispell.com

^ Back to Top

Danko, Rick: December 10, 1999 was an empty day in Woodstock. And it has been a bit emptier ever since. On that day, the world lost a legend, and Woodstock lost one of its own - Canadian Rick Danko, legendary bass player and singer for The Band, died just a few days shy of his 57th birthday. A simple Google search will produce miles of background on the singer/songwriter, but Woodstockers know him best as a visionary and neighbor, a critical player on the rock world's landscape and a humble, accessible community man. The rock books will recall how when he moved to Woodstock, he rented a big pink house in nearby West Saugerties and began recording with Bob Dylan and a bunch of spin-offs from Ronnie Hawkins' band who would eventually become The Band. The seminal "Music From Big Pink" landed The Band on the map. And the group never left. The sessions also later surfaced in 1975's "Basement Tapes." But for Woodstockers, through good and challenging times, Danko was a friend and an ingrained part of Woodstock community life and culture. He would play clubs frequently. Cast his smile in casual settings all around town. And remained until the last days someone who was always willing to "help the neighborhood" - the Woodstock community and the global community. Woodstock never has and never will stop missing him.

David, Kal: Chicago-born blues musician Kal David is best known as a member of The Fabulous Rhinestones.  The R&B band formed in San Francisco in 1971, but eventually relocated to Woodstock.  They played with fellow Woodstockers Paul Butterfield and members of The Band and signed on with Woodstock festival creator Michael Lang's recording label.  They released three records before disbanding in 1976.  David's first band, called Kal David and The Exceptions, included Peter Cetera, who went on to become an original member of the rock band Chicago. David has fronted several bands over the years and performed with numerous artists, including Etta James, John Mayall, Johnny Rivers and Paul Cotton, lead guitarist for Poco.  Additionally, he co-owned the Blue Guitar club in Palm Springs, California, in the late '90s and hosted a weekly 2-hour blues radio show.  http://www.kaldavid.com  

DeJohnette, Jack: Few would argue that Jack DeJohnette ranks among the jazz world's greatest drummers. The longtime Woodstocker often graces local stages. His extensive resume includes work with Miles Davis' group and, in particular, on the legendary "Bitches Brew" recording.  DeJohnette worked with numerous notable musicians in the '70s and '80s, including jazz legend Pat Metheny and veteran trumpeter Kenny Wheeler.  In addition to his time with bands Special Edition and Directions, DeJohnette also worked with Sun Ra, Thelonius Monk, Keith Jarrett, Sonny Rollins, Chick Correa and John McLaughlin, among many others. Born in Chicago, DeJohnette has a worldwide reputation for precision and brilliance he's brought to his craft. http://www.jackdejohnette.com

DeMicco, Mike: Guitarist Mike DeMicco grew up in Woodstock, totally immersed in the overwhelming music scene.  He cut his first demo tape at 18 and, after having it heard by blues legend Paul Butterfield and Ron Merians (the then-owner of The Joyous Lake,) DeMicco and his band were hired to work at The Lake. In 1987, DeMicco became a member of The Dolphins, a 4-member band formed in Woodstock by Dan Brubeck, son of the legendary Dave Brubeck, and included bassist Scott Petito (later replaced by Rob Leon) and keyboardist Vinnie Martucci. He has toured extensively since 1980, performing with numerous artists like The Brubeck Brothers Quartet, Jack DeJohnette, Warren Bernhardt, Professor Louie and The Crowmatix, plus many more.  He's appeared on NPR and PBS specials and graced the stage at prominent venues, including The Kennedy Center, Wolf Trap and B.B. King's. Best known as a "sideman," DeMicco also has a solo recording to his credit:  "As The Sun Sets" was released in 2002. He's also appeared on several instructional videos from Woodstock-based Homespun Tapes.  http://www.mikedemicco.com

Dinger, Greg: Greg Dinger is a classically trained guitarist. A longtime Woodstock-area resident, Dinger has performed in the area for many years -- for years he played at Joshua's Restaurant in downtown Woodstock. He's played with the Arabesque Trio, the Cantilena Duo, the Ars Choralis choral group and the Time Pieces folk/pop group. In addition to performing, Dinger teaches classical guitar styles. Dinger hosted Woodstock's WDST radio's classical musical show Sunrise Concert and served on the Woodstock Chamber Orchestra.

The Dolphins: The Dolphins were formed in Woodstock in 1987 by Dan Brubeck, son of jazz great Dave Brubeck. Drummer/percussionist Brubeck, guitarist Mike DeMicco, bassist Scott Petito (later replaced by Rob Leon) and keyboardist Vinnie Martucci created a mix of "old world" jazz with "new world electric." Their electrifying performances and live digital recordings earned high accolades in the jazz arena. The group released three albums: "Malayan Breeze," "Old World New World" and "Digital Dolphins."

Dorsey, Gail Ann: Bassist/vocalist Gail Ann Dorsey's most notable accomplishment has been as a member of David Bowie's band since 1995, starting with Bowie's Outside Tour with Nine Inch Nails. Dorsey's career began as a teenager in West Philadelphia, near the Tower Theater where, ironically, Bowie recorded in 1974. She started at an early age playing numerous instruments and writing her own compositions, films and screenplays.  An art school scholarship landed her in California for a brief time.  In search of a music career, Dorsey relocated to New York in the late '70s and eventually to London.  After nearly 12 years in England, Dorsey relocated to Woodstock in 1994. In addition to her stint with Bowie, Dorsey has had success as a solo artist, releasing several recordings. She's also worked with other notable artists, such as Tears for Fears, The Indigo Girls, Sophie B. Hawkins, The B-52s, the late Michael Hutchence from INXS and others. Dorsey performs in prominent New York City clubs and locally with fellow Woodstock resident Kate Pierson of The B-52s. http://www.gailanndorsey.com 

Dupree, Robbie: Born Robert Dupuis, Robbie Dupree is best known for his Top Ten hit single "Steal Away" from his debut album in 1980. He began performing his original songs in Brooklyn and around Greenwich Village before moving to Woodstock in 1973. Once settled in Woodstock, Dupree started collaborating with local musicians and, during that time, he formed several bands.  He relocated to Los Angeles in the late '70s to further his solo career.  After releasing "Robbie Dupree" in 1980, he was nominated for a Best New Artist Grammy. In 1981, he released "Street Corner Heroes," then stopped recording for a while. Dupree reappeared in 1989 with "Carried Away and "Walking on Water" in 1993. He collaborated with fellow Woodstocker and keyboardist David Sancious on "Smoke and Mirrors" in 1995 and with Artie Traum on several records. His work has been featured in television shows and major films, among others.  Dupree's entire discography came be found on his Web site at: http://www.robbiedupree.com

Dylan, Bob: Few names are as synonymous with the Woodstock legacy as Bob Dylan. Visitors to town usually are greeted with "Dylan slept here" or "Dylan wrote 'Like a Rolling Stone' there" stories. Some are true. Many are distorted truths. Others are outright myth. But Dylan did live and work here, and the friends he left behind reflect on his legacy in countless books, articles, documentaries, etc. From the surviving Band members to photographer Elliot Landy to the Traum brothers, Dylan links are everywhere to this day. He first visited the artists' community in 1963, long before the '69 festival put Woodstock on the worldwide pop culture map. He spent the summer of 1964 in Woodstock with Joan Baez. It was during these years, and after eventually departing from Woodstock in 1971, that Dylan's creativity soared. It was also during this time that some key events took place making headlines on any credible Dylan timeline. For example, in the summer of 1966, after "Blonde on Blonde" was released, he suffered a serious motorcycle accident and undertook a long recuperation period at his Woodstock home. In 1967, he recorded with The Band at "Big Pink" in nearby West Saugerties. The sessions were later officially released as "The Basement Tapes" in 1975. With the 2004 release of his biography and renewed media exposure, much of Dylan legacy is being rewritten by the man himself.  http://www.bobdylan.com/index.htm

^ Back to Top

Eppard, Jim: A genre-crossing roots musician, Eppard began performing in the 70s with country and country rock bands, most notably Red Wing & Durango. He branched out to R&B and blues with Moxie and The Crows. While with the Crows, he backed Levon Helm for several live shows, forming an association that led to a touring spot with The Band (substituting for Rick Danko) and several recordings by Garth Hudson, Helm and the Crowmatix, Rick Danko and The Bands final release: Jubilation.  Eppard has performed and recorded with members of Hot Tuna, Govt. Mule, P- Funk, Orleans, Cyndi Lauper, Ian Anderson, Chrysalis, Billy Reed, Harvey Brooks, Jewel, Henry Rollins, Butthole Surfers, Screamin Cheetah Wheelies and Three Days Grace.  A longtime Woodstock-area resident, Eppard performs locally with The Retro Rockets, a band with bassist Charlie Kniceley, keyboardist Pete Levin and drummer Paul Verdon.  Eppard has two musician sons - Joey, who fronts the band Three, and Joshua, the drummer with Coheed & Cambria.  http://www.thefamily3.com

Fagen, Donald: Best known for his generation-defining work with Steely Dan, Donald Fagen actually has a deep history in the Hudson Valley. A Passaic, NJ, native, Fagen was exposed to music by his mother, who was a singer working in the Catskills and performing the songs of Gershwin, Porter and others. Family members introduced him to R&B and jazz, and he spent his youth absorbing the likes of Charles Mingus, Stan Kenton and Duke Ellington. Fagen entered Bard College in Annandale-on-the-Hudson, studying English literature and music, in 1965. The reclusive Liberal Arts college across from the Hudson River from Woodstock inspired several later Steely Dan songs, including "Barrytown." In the early '70s, Steely Dan was formed with Walter Becker. The pair went on to blend R&B, jazz and rock in a unique alchemy that is as relevant today as it was in '70s. Fagen is an occasional resident in town. www.donaldfagen.com

Fradon, Amy: Amy Fradon resides in West Shokan, north of Woodstock. In the early 1980s, Fradon teamed with Leslie Ritter to form Amy & Leslie, and their soulful vocals can be heard on recordings by Rick Danko, John Sebastian, Orleans and the Fabulous Rhinestones, as well as others. During the 9 years performing as a duo, Fradon and Ritter collaborated on six albums. Fradon initially studied choreography at New York University, pursuing her interest in modern dance. In the mid-1970s, Fradon moved to the Woodstock area and performed with music notables Gary Bonner from the Turtles, Cane Roberts from the Alice Cooper Band, and Robbie Dupree. Fradon's solo debut album, "Bootleg," was released in 1996. http://amyfradon.com/html/cgi-bin/display.pl

Frank, Jackson:  Composer and singer Jackson C. Franks musical journey began early.  After being severely burned in a school fire at age 11, Frank recovered and began studying the guitar.  He traveled to England, where he shared a London flat with Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel in the mid-1960s. Frank eventually returned to the U.S. and based himself in Woodstock in 1969 in order to continue writing songs and performing.  However, he was homeless by the mid-1970s, living on the streets and in hospitals due to mental illness and arthritis, and a shooting accident left him legally blind in his left eye.  Frank died on March 3, 1999 at the age of 55.

Frazza, Robert: Robert Frazza was born in Ridgewood, NJ, and listened to a wide range of music growing up: classical, jazz, rock, blues and country.  Frazza played in a few bands during the 70s and 80s before engineering records at a number of different studios.  He started working at The Toy Specialists in New York City, a sound equipment supply company.  Frazza relocated to Woodstock in 1988 and began working at Bearsville Studios as a technical engineer and eventually at Bearsville Theatre, where he mixed for live music acts.  He went on to work independently mixing, engineering and producing for numerous artists.  He also runs his own recording studio that features tape, digital and MIDI sequencing equipment.  http://www.robertfrazza.com

^ Back to Top

Gadd, Steve: Drummer Steve Gadd lived in Woodstock for many years before returning to Rochester, NY, where he grew up. Gadd studied music at Eastman College in Rochester and then spent three years in the US Army, where he played in a military band. In the early '70s, Gadd played in a trio with Woodstocker Tony Levin and Mike Holmes. When he arrived in New York City, Gadd quickly became a hot studio prospect.  Over the years he's recorded and toured with the likes of George Benson, Paul Simon, Bette Midler, Phoebe Snow, Carly Simon, Bob James, James Taylor, Eric Clapton and numerous others. Gadd also performed with Chick Corea's debut "Return to Forever." Gadd received Zildjian's American Drummers Achievement Award in 2003 for his contributions over the last 30 years.   http://www.drstevegadd.com

Goldsmith, Lynn: Award-winning photographer Lynn Goldsmith has covered a variety of subjects over the years and her work can be found in issues of Rolling Stone, Newsweek, Time, People, and many, many more. In addition to her photography, Goldsmith is an accomplished author, director and recording artist.  She contributed to the "Day in the Life" book series and has published her own photographic books, covering subjects like Bruce Springsteen. She was the director of ABC's "In Concert" and the music documentary "We're An American Band. Goldsmith eventually pursued a recording career, using the pseudo name Will Powers, and has written songs with Todd Rundgren, Nile Rogers, Sting and Steve Winwood. She has long had connections to Woodstock. http://www.lynngoldsmith.com

Gorn, Steve: Bansuri virtuoso Steve Gorn performs Indian classical music and new American music on the bamboo flute. Gorn has several solo albums to his credit and has collaborated with numerous artists in the jazz world, such as Badal Roy, Graham Parker, Laura Simms and Jack DeJohnette. He also has recorded with musicians in other music genres: Paul Simon, Richie Havens, Deepak Chopra and Julie Taymor, for instance. Gorn has written scores for videos, films, theater and television, including specials airing on ABC and PBS. http://www.stevegorn.com

Grebb, Marty: Chicago-born Marty Grebb was once of member of The Buckinghams, an American band popular in the late 60s and best known for their hit song, Kind of a Drag. Grebb was also a member of The Exceptions, a band he formed with his high school friend, Peter Cetera  who would later earn his fame with legendary band Chicago. After moving to Woodstock in the early 70s, Grebb began collaborating with Band members Rick Danko, Levon Helm and Richard Manuel  he became a member of Dankos band, co-wrote a song with Helm (Kentucky Downpour off their Jericho album) and wrote several songs with Manuel. He also worked with fellow Woodstockers Paul Butterfield and Jack DeJohnette. Over the years, Grebb has worked with many legendary artists, including: Roseanne Cash, John Lee Hooker, Etta James, Taj Mahal, Willie Nelson, Bonnie Raitt, Leon Russell, Joe Walsh, and the list goes on. Additionally, Grebb spent time producing and writing  he co-produced The Fabulous Rhinestones first album and Aaron Nevilles Devotion. And three of his songs can be found on the 1997 film Fire Down Below soundtrack, in which Helm played a small role. Grebb left Woodstock in 1974 to move to Los Angeles.  http://www.martygrebb.com

Grennan, Winston: Drummer Winston Grennan was born in the Virgin Islands and is known for his credit to the one-drop sound in reggae music.  Grennan started a brief career as a welterweight boxer, but immigrated to the U.S. in 1973 to begin a career as a session drummer in New York.  He performed and recorded with Dizzy Gillespie, Kid Creole and the Coconuts, Garland Jeffreys and with his own band, Winston Grennan Ska-Rock Band.  Grennan moved from Woodstock to Baltimore, MD, in 1992 and later died of lung and bone cancer at the age of 60.  http://www.winstongrennan.com

Gress, Jesse: Jesse Gress spent his first 20 years of his career touring in the United States, the United Kingdom and Asia. Gress became a touring guitarist for Todd Rundgren in 1991 and co-arranged and played on Rundgren's "With a Twist." In addition to his recording career, Gress is an accomplished writer and editor. He produced content for Guitar World, Guitar World Acoustic and GuitarPort, was the music editor for Guitar Player magazine, and has written several books. Gress performed along side Rundgren on the artist's Liars tour in 2004 and currently performs with The Tony Levin Band, The Jim Weider Band II and Uncle Funk. http://www.jessegress.com

Grossman, Albert: Legendary music manager and recording executive Albert B. Grossman, born in Chicago, is best known for managing Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin. He also managed other legendary greats, such as The Band, Richie Havens, Todd Rundgren, Gordon Lightfoot, Peter, Paul and Mary and more. Grossman's known for being one of the most influential managers in the business, driving some of the most famous recording artists to Woodstock. Grossman graduated with an economics degree from Roosevelt College in Chicago and went to work for the Chicago Housing Authority. He left his job in 1956 to open the Gate of Horn, a club featuring live, new folk music. Grossman eventually relocated to New York City, where he co-directed the first Newport Folk Festival.  He ultimately moved to Bearsville, NY, and personally financed and established Bearsville Studio and the Bearsville record label. Grossman died in 1986 and is buried in the Bearsville Complex. Grossman's widow, Sally has been a Woodstock/Bearsville fixture since her husband's death. In 2004, the reclusive Sally began selling some longtime Grossman holdings, including the Bearsville restaurant and theater complex and some of the famed studios.

^ Back to Top

Hall, John: Baltimore-born singer/guitarist John Hall is a founding member of Orleans, a soft rock group most recognized for their hits "Dance with Me" and "Still the One." Hall began piano lessons at 5 years old, studied the French Horn and competed in music competitions. He had already written songs for Janis Joplin, performed with Seals & Croft and did studio time with Bonnie Raitt before he formed Orleans in 1972. Hall left Orleans in 1978 to pursue a solo career. He later formed The John Hall Band in 1981.  Hall disbanded his group a short time later, but continued writing songs for others, releasing solo recordings and forming Siren Records. In addition to a successful recording career, Hall has served as political activist and public servant. Along with Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt and Graham Nash, Hall formed Musicians United for Safe Energy, "No Nukes."  And he was elected to the Saugerties (Ulster County; near Woodstock) Board of Education as president from July 1998 to January 2000.  Although no longer a fulltime Woodstock-area resident, he still has a strong presence in the region. Hall's discography, as well as other independent artists' works, can be found at: http://www.sirensongs.com or http://www.johnhallmusic.com.

Hand, Frederick: Classical guitarist Frederick Hand has been in the music industry for decades, composing, performing, recording and touring with legends such as Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo and others. Hand arranged and performed the theme from the 1979 film Kramer vs. Kramer, a winner of five Academy Awards, and he won an Emmy in 1996 for his composition for the daytime soap opera The Guiding Light. Additionally, Hand is an accomplished teacher: he's taught classes at several major universities, including Emory and Yale.

Havens, Richie:  Legendary folksinger Richie Havens was born in Brooklyn.  He first hit the music scene in the early 1960s, playing folk music in Greenwich Village.  He landed his first record deal in 1967, after signing with manager Albert Grossman.  He performed at several big-name pop festivals during the '60s, but it wasn't until his appearance at the 1969 Woodstock Festival that his career launched -- he kicked off the infamous festival and played for nearly 3 hours.  Havens toured heavily throughout the '70s, '80s and '90s and has over two dozens albums to his credit.  Additionally, Havens' resume includes writing and acting acclaim: his book, "They Can't Hide Us Anymore," was released in 1999; he played himself in the 1990 Woodstock: Lost Performances documentary; and his song, "Hands of Time," was used in the 2004 movie Collateral.  After four decades, Havens continues to entertain his audiences with the same passion, warmth and distinctive style that define the musical icon.  www.richiehavens.com  

Helm, Levon: To this day a Woodstocker in every sense of the elusive word, Band legend Levon Helm is sometimes visible around town and usually at work in his studio in the hills here. The famed drummer of The Band grew up on a farm in Arkansas. He sprung from his country music roots to the Hawks, which had a couple of early hits, before becoming a member of Bob Dylan's band when Dylan went electric. It was in nearby West Saugerties, at a big pink house rented by Band bassist Rick Danko, that Helm and the boys began creating a string of classic albums that would help redefine the rock/country music landscape and ultimately find The Band immortalized in the Martin Scorsese film, "The Last Waltz." The Band went on to produce a number of classics - "Music From Big Pink," "Stage Fright" and "Jericho." In 1994 Helm and The Band were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. All along, Helm stayed busy - in films, on the road (including with Ringo Starr) and at home, where he has played frequently and usually in intimate settings. These days, Helm is still a Woodstock fixture. And his Midnight Ramble Sessions at his studios are becoming classics. These sessions, open to a limited number of ticket-buying fans, have included Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris, Dr. John, John Sebastian, Garth Hudson and Levon's daughter, Amy, to name a few. It's roots music at its best - and a new Woodstock tradition is being hatched in the process. http://levonhelm.com

Hendrix, Jimi: Guitarist Jimi Hendrix's career launched in 1967 and he reigned as an electric rock guitar superstar/showman/hero/icon since grinding his guitar with his teeth and setting it on fire. And he performed his famous "machine-gun interpretation" of "The Start Spangled Banner" to close the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival. Hendrix started working with greats like Little Richard and The Isley Brothers. He joined John Hammond Jr.'s band for a while, playing in New York clubs. He was eventually spotted by Chas Chandler, bassist for the Animals. Chandler talked Hendrix into moving to London as a solo act and created the Jimi Hendrix Experience. The group made the Top Ten in 1967 with "Hey Joe," "Purple Haze" and "The Wind Cries Mary." Hendrix's group disbanded in 1969 and he formed the Band of Gypsies. He disbanded Gypsies and reunited in 1970 with the Experience. Hendrix died in London on Sept. 18, 1970 from drug-related complications while working on a new album. Most of Hendrix's material was issued posthumously, including several live concerts tapes and the rights to Hendrix's estate - along with all his recordings - went to his father in 1995. The time he spent in Woodstock is debatable, but nonetheless written into town lore. Rumors range from recording at what is now the town's lone alternative movie theater to countless "I remember when Jimi stopped by..." stories. 

^ Back to Top

Herald, John: The onetime voice of bluegrass' Greenbriar Boys, John Herald was a Woodstock mainstay. The Greenwich Village native was a prolific songwriter and singer/guitarist. His distinctive voice and songwriting are legend in these parts. For the rest of the world, his songs have been recorded by Linda Ronstadt, Peter, Paul and Mary, Maria Muldar and others. His "Alligator Man" recorded with the Greenbriars is one of many classics. And "Stewball," also recorded with the Greenbriars, made it into the movie The Champ with Jon Voight.  Herald died on July 18, 2005.  http://www.johnherald.com

Hersey, Baird and PRANA: PRANA is a Woodstock original. This group of singers uses their natural, textured voices to recreate the scared music of Tibetan Buddhism. The group, formed by musician Baird Hersey, can be heard on his "Waking the Cobra." Hersey is a well-known guitarist and composer. In the '70s-'80s, he played with and wrote for Year of the Ear, a band noted for blending of different musical styles. Other PRANA members include: Peter Buettner, Kristi Gholson, Julie Last, Bruce Milner, Jonji Provenzano, Leslie Ritter, Bar Scott and Joe Veillette. http://www.pranasound.com

Hodgkinson, Mick ("Johnny Average"): England-born guitarist Mick Hodgkinson -- a.k.a. "Johnny Average" -- came to Woodstock in the late 1970s. He formed his first band shortly afterwards, called Johnny Average and the Falcons. The band became known as Woodstock's band during the late '70s and the members worked regularly at Bearsville Studios, mainly recording solo releases. Hodgkinson later formed The Johnny Average Band and signed on with Albert Grossman, manager of Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, The Band, Richie Havens, Todd Rundgren, Gordon Lightfoot, Peter, Paul and Mary, and others. Their "Some People" album was released in 1980 on Bearsville Records. Over the years, Hodgkinson worked with numerous artists, including fellow Woodstockers Cindy Cashdollar, Mick Ronson and John Sebastian. Hodgkinson passed away June 18, 2007, after a bout with cancer.

Holland, Dave: Born in Wolverhampton, England, current reclusive Woodstocker Dave Holland is an acoustic bass master. In the '60s, he studied under James Merritt, who was then the lead bassist of the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Influenced by the music of Ray Brown and Leroy Vinnegar, he began on a career path that found him working with John McLaughlin, John Taylor and others before moving to New York in the late '60s. Holland then toured with Miles Davis, and in 1970 formed a band with Chick Corea. The Circle Band lasted only a year, but the band's album "Paris Concert" was declared a classic by jazz insiders. Through the decades, Holland has remained an essential player. In 1990, he toured with fellow Woodstocker Jack DeJohnette's "Parallel Realities" band, which included Pat Metheny -- another Woodstocker -- and Herbie Hancock. And in 1997, the Dave Holland Quintet was born.  They released "Points of View" in 1998.  Holland's complete discography can be found at: http://www.daveholland.com

Hoppen, Larry: Long Island, NY-born Larry Hoppen is a founding member of the band Orleans -- he's considered "the voice" of the group. Orleans is primarily known for their hits "Still the One" and "Dance with Me." Hoppen released his first solo album in 1996, "The Unherd's Looking for the Light," and "HandMade" in 1998. He has toured and/or collaborated on numerous projects with artists such as Lulu, David Sancious, Tony Levin, Blues Traveler, Graham Parker and others. Hoppen and his wife Patricia co-founded Sunshine for HIV Kids in 1993, and all of profits from Hoppen's CD sales and all monies earned go directly to his organization. His book, "A Career in Music: How to Stand a Chance," was released in early 2006.  Hoppen lived and recorded in Woodstock for nearly 30 years before relocating to Florida in 2000 with his family. http://www.larryhoppen.com

Hudson, Garth: Born Eric Garth Hudson in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, Hudson was a member of the legendary group The Band. He began his musical career in the late 1950s with Paul London and the Capers and toured in the early 1960s with Ronnie Hawkins, fellow member of The Band. Hudson and Hawkins eventually became members of Bob Dylan's band, which led to them relocating to Woodstock. "Music from Big Pink" was The Band's first release and is one of the most influential records of all time. Hudson mastered a variety of instruments, including the piano, keyboards, horns, saxophone, accordion, and the Lowrey organ, a centerpiece for The Band's sound. The Band's "Chest Fever" opening features Hudson on the organ and later became the showstopper song for their concerts. Hudson and The Band were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. Following his departure from The Band, Hudson began playing and recording with numerous artists, such as Emmylou Harris, Cyndi Lauper, Neil Diamond, Muddy Waters, and many, many others. The Band reunited in the '80s and '90s; however, without the Lowrey organ. Hudson has remained busy as a solo artist. He released his first official solo CD, entitled "The Sea to the North" in 2001 and worked with Norah Jones on her 2004 "Feels Like Home" CD and on Los Lobos' 2004 CD "Ride." Hudson is a current Woodstock resident and frequently performs around town wife his wife, Maud.  http://theband.hiof.no/band_members/garth.html or http://www.garthhudson.com

^ Back to Top

Johansen, David: Staten Island-born and Woodstock-area resident David Johansen is best known as the front man for New York Dolls, a cross-dressing, drug-fueled, vulgar band that created a new form of punk rock bands. The Dolls disbanded quickly, but produced two of the most popular cult records in history. Before joining the Dolls, Johansen was with two different bands: the Vagabond Missionaries and Fast Eddie and the Electric Japs. Johansen was then asked to join the band Actress - Actress later became The New York Dolls. Following the Dolls, Johansen recorded his self-titled solo debut in 1977. He resurfaced in 1984 as Buster Poindexter, a comedic nightclub singer/performer.  He went on to tour New York clubs as Poindexter, along with the Banshees in Blue.  Poindexter's popularity helped revive Johansen's musical career.  His acting career received a boost in 1988 when he was cast in two movies: Married to the Mob and Scrooged.  Johansen later formed David Johansen and The Harry Smiths, a country-blues group.

Johnson, Howard: Composer/arranger/tuba player Howard Johnson, a former Woodstocker, is considered one of the top tuba soloists. Johnson began working in the early '60s with jazz bassist/composer Charles Mingus and jazz arranger Gil Evans, who worked with Miles Davis on three albums: "Miles Ahead," "Porgy and Bess" and "Sketches of Spain." Johnson formed Substructure in the late 1970s and a second tuba band called Gravity in the 1990s. Gravity released "Gravity!!!" in 1995 and "Right Now" in 1998 and played at the 1996 Monterey Jazz Festival. Johnson was in the first Saturday Night Live Band from 1975 to 1979 and later directing the band in 1980. Johnson has recorded with fellow Woodstockers Jack DeJohnette, The Band and Paul Butterfield, along with many others.  He also completed horn arrangements for Paul Simon, John Lennon and Chaka Khan.  And Johnson's featured on several film soundtracks, including School Daze and Malcolm X, both directed by Spike Lee. http://hojozone.com

Joplin, Janis: Janis Joplin is one of the most recognizable white female rock and blues singers of the 1960s and all time. She is best known for her hit single "Me and Bobby McGee," a posthumous release in 1971.  And she performed at the 1969 Woodstock Festival.  Joplin grew up in Port Arthur, TX, and began singing in her teens and playing with Jorma Kaukonen -- Kaukonen later became the guitarist for Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna. She relocated to California in 1966 and started her career as front woman for Big Brother & the Holding Company.  Joplin's strong, bluesy voice helped make the band a hit at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival with her "Ball and Chain" performance. The band signed with Albert Grossman and the Bearsville label for their second album, "Cheap Thrills." Joplin left the band in 1968 to pursue a solo career; however, the venture was short lived.  She struggled for years with drug and alcohol addiction and died of a heroin overdose in a Hollywood hotel in October 1970. http://www.officialjanis.com

Katz, Bruce:  Hammond B3 organist Bruce Katz hails from the New England area and is best known for his affiliation with Ronnie Earl and the Broadcasters.  After leaving the Broadcasters, Katz went on to record several albums and formed his own band, the Bruce Katz Band.  He majored in Jazz Performance at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. Additionally, he's worked and/or toured with legends Chuck Berry, Bo Didley, Emmylou Harris, Levon Helm and many others.  Katz joined Helm's Midnight Rambles and resides in West Shokan, near Woodstock.  www.brucekatzband.com

Kaukonen, Jorma: For more than 30 years, Jorma Kaukonen, a former Woodstock resident, has been nurturing and celebrating his unique contributions to the rock/country/folk/blues worlds. Kaukonen's finger-picking fret mastery is legendary. While he is perhaps best known for his stints with Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna, Kaukonen's brilliance stretches across genres and now generations. Of late, he has been touring with Jack Casady in an acoustic and electric version of Hot Tuna. There are more than 40 releases on Kaukonen's resume. And to this day, he is well remembered around town where he lived for years before creating a music camp, Fur Peace Ranch, in Ohio. This unique guitar boot camp is set on a 119-acre ranch and designed to offer unique learning experiences for all ages and skill levels. www.jormakaukonen.com