Some people call it Dixieland.  Others would rather call it early
jazz or classic jazz or traditional jazz.  What ever words you
use to ask for it, the characteristics are unmistakable.  The
cornet leads the ensemble with its authoritative statement of
the familiar melodies.  The clarinet weaves a countermelody in
and out and above it all.  The trombone divides its time
between bass notes and a harmony part beneath the cornet.  
When laid upon a harmonic and rhythmic foundation provided
by the banjo, tuba, and drums, all of this fits together in an
improvised polyphonic texture that can sometimes rival the
music of J. S. Bach himself.  It’s an enduringly joyful sound.  
Even the blues has a bit of laughter in it.  This music is the
specialty of Chris Canzoneri and his jazz band.

Established over a decade ago as The DixieCats by cornetist
and chemistry professor Eddie Meyer, this six piece band has
entertained audiences all over the Chicago Metropolitan area.  
Eddie decided to escape the harsh Chicago winters a few
years ago by moving to Sarasota, but luckily, he is still thrilling
admiring throngs up and down the Florida Gulf Coast with his
cornet stylings.  The Chicago band continues in its mission
under the leadership of Chris and his trombone.

Copyright 2005 Christopher M. Canzoneri