Scheila Gonzalez
Scheila Gonzalez |
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Scheila Gonzalez (born August 5, 1971 in Los Angeles, California) is an American multi-instrumentalist and music educator. She is best known for playing the saxophone and other instruments with artists such as Dweezil Zappa, Alex Acuña, Ray Parker, Jr., and many others.[1] She currently plays tenor saxophone the all-female jazz orchestra DIVA and is a full-time member of the Zappa Plays Zappa world tour in which she plays several instruments and sings.[2]
Biography
Gonzalez took piano lessons from the age of four and then transitioned to the saxophone at age twelve. Currently, she is the Director of Jazz Combos at Santa Susana Performing Arts High School in Simi Valley, California, she gives private lessons, and does freelance work in addition to her various album, tour, and concert appearances.[1]
Notable performances
Gonzalez has been performing on the Zappa Plays Zappa tour with Dweezil Zappa for both of its seasons. She has received praise in the media for her instrumental performance and skill during the tour.[3] The show has toured the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. She has appeared on television shows such as The Tonight Show backing Garth Brooks and the BET Music Awards backing Sheila E.. Gonzalez has also done film work, appearing in the Christopher Guest film For Your Consideration.[1]
Awards
Gonzalez won the Shelly Manne Memorial New Talent Award, a prestigious jazz music recognition awarded in the Los Angeles area.[1]
References
- ^ a b c d "Scheila Gonzalez". The DIVA Jazz Orchestra. Retrieved 2008-01-25.
- ^ "The Players". Zappa Plays Zappa. Retrieved 2008-01-25.
- ^ Fountain, Leigh Buckley (2007-11-10). "Magical music of F. Zappa rocks again - Leading a crack band, son Dweezil shows songs' power". Richmond Times-Dispatch. p. B-4.