Credits:

John Ellis

Description:

As a woodwind specialist and composer, John Ellis often faces duality in his musical life. In his new work, “Fireball,” Ellis, along with his beloved Double Wide Band, is a new work that inspires analysis as well as dance.A native of North Carolina, Ellis embodies an impulsive and intuitive musical identity. This identity is shaped by his Southern upbringing, his growing up years in New Orleans, and his longtime devotion to the New York City jazz world.Ellis’ Double Wide Band was formed to feature phenomenal New Orleans sousaphone player Matt Perrin. For nearly two decades, the ensemble’s membership has been in flux, solidified by the addition of trombonist Alan Farber, keyboardist Gary Versace, and drummer Jason Marsalis. Double Wide continues to be an eclectic ensemble of fine musicians who combine linguistic flexibility with expressive depth.Double Wide had the opportunity to take an extended