Projects

PROJECTS

A Celebration of Elvin Jones:
Dear Elvin J.

The Dear Elvin J. Project, formed by Tony Moreno to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Elvin Jones’ passing, celebrates the legendary drummer's musical legacy. As a protege of Jones, Moreno has selected 10 compositions from Elvin's iconic repertoire, with new arrangements by NYC composer/arranger Rich Shemaria. The ensemble features a stellar group of musicians: Troy Roberts on tenor saxophone, Steve Wilson on alto and soprano saxophones, Manuel Valera on piano, Gene Perla on bass, Mauricio Herrera on congas, and Moreno on drums. As Moreno says, “Elvin was my role model, my mentor, and my closest friend.” Through this project, we honor the extraordinary legacy that Elvin Jones has left behind.

Tony Moreno Trio

The Tony Moreno Trio, featuring Tony Moreno (drums), Gary Versace (piano), and François Moutin (bass), emerged from a long-running residency at the 55 Bar in New York, where they redefined jazz with bold reinterpretations of standards and inventive improvisation. After Frank Kimbrough’s passing in 2020, Gary Versace joined permanently, amplifying the trio's sound. Their latest release, Ballads Vol. 1, showcases the trio’s powerful musical synergy through a collection of reimagined ballads. Combining individual brilliance with a shared commitment to creative freedom, they blend intricate rhythms, lyrical improvisation, and dynamic musical dialogue into a compelling, unified sound.

Latest Album: Ballads Volume 1 [Sunnyside Records, 2024]

Tony Moreno Quintet

The Tony Moreno Quintet boasts an exceptional lineup of musicians: Marc Mommaas (tenor saxophone), Ron Horton (trumpet and flugelhorn), Jean Michel Pilc (piano), Ugonna Okegwo (bass), and Tony Moreno (drums). Their sound seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, merging intricate compositions with spontaneous improvisation. The quintet's latest album, Short Stories, has garnered widespread international acclaim, earning a place on the Top 10 Jazz Albums of the Year 2016 list by NYJR. The album features works by jazz legends Duke Ellington and Kenny Wheeler, alongside original compositions by Tony Moreno. With its impeccable interplay and diverse influences, the Tony Moreno Quintet offers a captivating and dynamic jazz experience.

Latest Album: Short Stories [Mayimba, 2016]