The BandAbout Us

Matt Houston

Drums

Getting a drumset for Christmas when I was eleven sparked the beginning of something that still goes on today. I already had a friend across the street who was learning guitar so it was pretty easy for both of us to improve quickly since we both had someone to jam with. I had many expensive interests when I young, but music has been the only one that I have stuck with. Majoring in music in college was frowned upon by my parents, but music recording didn't seem as bad to them so I went with that. I've always been interested in recording, but I mainly wanted to learn how to make my drums sound like the drums in my favorite records. I found Lebanon Valley College to be a great school for me to learn more about music while getting a Bachelors degree in recording at the same time "just in case". I played with several bands at LVC, but the main group I played in was a Jazz Fusion quartet called Shoeless Grooves. Aaron Trasatt (Funky Fontana Keyboards) was in the band as well and getting to still play with him today is a real treat. My drumming interests changed a lot from heavy metal and rock to Jazz and Funk during college because of the people I played with and the music I was exposed to. Once senior year hit I really just wanted to play music when I got out of college and lo and behold, that's exactly what I'm doing. I couldn't be more thankful. My other interests besides music include eating, sleeping and talking to people.

Aaron Slagle

Guitar

Long walks on the beach, watching the sunset from a picturesque grassy knoll, indulging in fine wine with a foie gras dinner, and candlelight conversations on French film...could not be further from my true likes and passions. Other than being completely obsessed with music in every way possible, I love to: read, hike, hang out with my family/best friends, converse in philosophical language, meet new people, fight laziness, coffee (…I love coffee), kick ass (never kiss ass), and most importantly make use of the evolutionary product known as the mind!

When I was about 5 years old my brothers and I put on old Elvis records. Using a violin, maracas, and some sort of flute, we pretended we were playing rocking tunes like Jailhouse Rock…we were unaware our parents were videotaping us the entire time via a hidden camera in the kitchen. Also, when we were kids my brothers and I would heckle our father to play us "Wild Thing" on guitar. I thought it was the most amazing thing I had ever seen or heard. You could say discovering music was the 'coolest experience' of my entire life.

I cannot begin to elaborate on my past lifetimes. I am told I have had many. Where I am from? I do not really know. Evidence tells me I am from the simple town of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. I am actually related to the first settler in Lancaster known as Hans Herr. That is what I'm told. I would suggest the Mothership dropped me off in Lancaster County to spread my love of the funkiness vibes from the motherland of Planet Groove.

Any audible beat(s), rhythm(s), note(s) (whether orchestrated or found in nature) has influenced my playing in some sort of cosmic way. It's nearly impossible to truly know all of my influences especially considering we have no idea how much our unconscious minds impact our life, let alone the musical style I emulate. If that is too broad…I love the blues. It is the root of my soul. Thus, I love all genres of music because blues can be found in the most obvious and subtle ways possible in every style.

I started playing for the same reason every musician does. Women love musicians! But on the real, my father influenced me more than anything or anyone to become a musician. He has had the biggest impact on my life, especially within the music realm. I am very blessed to have had a father who played Jimi Hendrix, Chick Corea, Jeff Beck, Miles, Weather Report, etc., instead of the mind numbing sing-along tunes of Barney the Friendly Dinosaur when I was a little tike. Also, I cannot thank my dear mother enough for giving me the ear for music that I have. Without her, I would be talentless. On a very platonic level, I am a musician because it is a primal force that drives us. I get a spiritual uplift, or what alcoholics call a moment of clarity, every time I play music. It is certainly an addiction.

I HAVE MY OWN RADIO SHOW! Everyone should listen to my radio show on 91.7fm (or www.wixq.com for our web stream) every Friday from 4-7pm. My format includes funk/soul/jazz/blues/fusion/acid jazz…you get the picture. Catch me after a show and I will tell you how you can join me on air! Besides that…I love making new friends. Never be afraid to approach me after a show to meet me!

Nathan O. Sheffer

Saxophone

Nathan Sheffer is a graduate of Millersville University where he completed a Bachelor of Arts in Music. His major performance area was saxophone with a concentration in flute and clarinet.

Since his return to Pennsylvania, in 2005, Nathan has distinguished himself as one of Central PA's most called on saxophonists. His canny skills in multiple woodwinds has led to frequent performances in the York, Harrisburg, and Lancaster areas with members of the Millersville, Lancaster, Harrisburg, and Carlisle Bands. Nathan also appears regularly with the Jazz Ministers, Bob Troxel's Big Big Jazz Band, and The Vintage Jazz Orchestra. In the past two years he has often performed in the pit orchestra at the Ephrata Performing Arts Center. Along with an extensive performance record, Nathan has been the recipient of several awards. Some of his most recent awards include; the Woody Herman Jazz Award, Louis Vyner Performance Scholarship, Presser Foundation Scholarship, member of the 2008 PA Intercollegiate Band and the 2009 National Intercollegiate Band.

Teachers he has studied under include: Dr. Christy Banks, Dr. Anita Renfroe, Mr. Kirk Reese, Mr. Curt Sipe, Mr. Jeffrey Snyder, Mr. Thomas Stroehman and Mr. Chris Vadala. Nathan has performed under Dr. Larry McWilliams, Mr. James Campbell, Mr. Mark Camphouse, Dr. Eddie Henderson, Mr. Neil Slater, Mr. Thomas Strohman, and Mr. Chris Vadala. Along with his studies, Nathan has performed with jazz legend Shelia Jordan and has been under the direction of jazz violinist Mr. John Blake Jr., and jazz trombonist/composer/arranger, Mr. Pete McGuiness.

Nathan is extremely excited to join Funky Fontana's horn section and looks forward to collaborate with more of Central Pennsylvania's great musicians.

Aaron Trasatt

Keyboard

Some of my biggest passions include writing and performing music, creating and viewing realist and abstract art, creating anything from nearly nothing, and a nice glass of Barolo or Zinfandel. I've always been on the hunt to create something new, musically or not, and continue to fulfill that dream. Joining Funky Fontana is certainly a step towards that dream.

I began learning piano at age five, however, I took a considerable break in high school from formal lessons. I began experimenting with improvisation and jazz, which eventually lead me to structured jazz training in college. Along with piano, I attempted learning any instrument I could own or borrow including sax, clarinet, tuba, guitar, bass, and drums. I am currently studying recording engineering at Lebanon Valley College with an emphasis in voice and jazz piano studies.

My favorite musical experiences include performing for the inauguration of Governor-elect Tom Corbett, accompanying many fine musicians coming out of our college in both recitals and gigs in central PA, and writing and performing jazz fusion with Shoeless Grooves. Without steady exposure playing with other musicians, I wouldn't be where I am today. I owe my musical knowledge to those who taught it to me and those who allowed me to play and perform with them. I owe my deepest gratitude to my parents and grandparents for allowing me the chance to explore a more creative route in my life while always encouraging my decisions.

I want to thank my brother and my friends for shaping me into the person I am. Without them, I would be unaware of the full potentials any person could possess and ultimately achieve. They are the reasons why I continue to perform and share with others what they shared with me.

John Stoudt

Trumpet

.....And now to the real guts and glory of the band....the trumpet playing. Just kidding. John Stoudt, hailing all the way from Reading, PA, is very pleased to be a musical member of Funky Fontana.

Likes and passions would be Jim Weber, first and foremost, a retirement from a previous life of debauchery and many bad decisions, most genres of music, art, theatre, sports (COLLEGE football, NY Yankees, track and field, Indianapolis Colts), good java, traveling, my family, inspirational readings, and thriller novels.

My favorite musical experience to date would be performing at Carnegie Hall, or the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

I started as a musician because my parents thought I needed some more culture in my life as a young pup, on top of the sports I was already involved in. After 3 years of playing the cello, I decided to switch to a more hip instrument. I've stuck with it ever since and sort of just fell into the life of a musician.

Performing is fun, but nothing is more rewarding than witnessing a musical "ahh" from one of your students, and looking back and realizing that was once you. I am very fortunate to be part of this funky new project!

Chris Higgins

Vocals

The question is often asked, "What is in a name?" When your name is Chris Higgins, the answer becomes clear: talent, intellect, genius, and gifted. With his musical talents, Christopher Joel Higgins expresses his love for the gift by using his soulful voice and passion for music and sharing it with others. The Bronx native, is an artist, vocal arranger and producer that believes the sky is the limit.

With skillful ingenuity Chris adds distinct flavor to the R&B and inspirational world. His musical gifts extend beyond merely singing and taking leadership when its time to do so. Chris has obtained a bachelor's of music degree in performance from Berklee College Of Music in Boston where he also received a four-year scholarship to attend. The 25-year old has distinguished himself as an accomplished producer, composer, performer and has written for various local artist in New York, Boston and Atlanta. Chris has had the esteemed privilege of working with industry professionals such as Kelly Price, Brent Jones, Ryan Leslie, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Walter Beasly, Chaka Khan and many other greats. His unique musical ability has been heard throughout the United States and Canada in a range of genres and venues, including frequent performances in local churches, college events, various concert venues and of course the Berklee College of Music.

Chris has produced and co-produced stage productions and performances including, community outreach events, and concerts. Not only is he noticed for his strong anointing and huge range, he has also tapped into the acting world playing one of the lead roles in the off Broadway play " Mama I Wanna Sing" Directed by the great Jacqui Parker. Chris enjoys sharing his gift of music to the world. As one of the lead singers of the band Funky Fontana he enjoys every moment of it. He believes that what is from the heart, reaches the heart. Therefore, Chris shares his music from his heart as he touches the lives of many. It is among Chris's highest hopes and most earnest prayers that his future with this band will bring forth more opportunities to exercise his love of sharing this gift and that men and women continue to be blessed by it.

Raysa Rivera

Vocals

I was born and raised in Vega Alta, a small city right outside San Juan, Puerto Rico. I spend my free time singing, listening to music, and reading. I love to cook and Puerto Rican dishes are my specialty. I love challenges and trying new things, which is why I decided to come to the US on my own when I turned eighteen. I owe my talent to my mother, who made sure I was exposed to all types of music from the time I was born.

My music adventure started in elementary school when I started playing guitar in school. I had acquired a habit to sing along when I listened to the radio, which is how my mother's friend noticed I could sing. After that I stopped playing the guitar to sing in my schools' band. This led to me being selected to represent my school district at a National Singing Competition in Puerto Rico. At the age of ten, I had the privilege of beingpart of a broadcasted play that featured Puerto Rican notable performers: Danny Rivera, Rafi Escudero, and Raul Carbonnel, Jr., called Repica Ese Guiro y Canta. Two years later I collaborated with Andres Jimenez in a Holiday album. In 2001, I was sponsored to attend the Puerto Rican Parade in New York to represent Vega Alta. I attended The Music Conservatory of Puerto Rico for six years taking Classical Piano and Pop Voice lessons.

I graduated from Franklin & Marshall College in 2010 completing a Business and Psychology double major and a French minor. My heart always searched for the music within me. For this very reason, I was part of The F&M College Chorus, The Poor Richards, Voices of Praise, and The John Newman Association's Mass Choir.

I have to thank my parents for their unconditional support in my career. They always encourage me to follow my heart and I am truly blessed to have them in my life. Also, my friends have been a great support system; it's great to have a second family being so far away from home.

Being part of Funky Fontana has changed my life! Sharing the stage with such talented singers and musicians is a dream come true. I look forward seeing you at one, or preferably all, of our performances. Please come and meet me and the rest of the Funky Fontana family.

Michael Evangelista

Bass

Started playing the electric bass at age 15. Studied string bass at Kutztown University where he developed classical and jazz training playing in the top level Jazz Ensemble and University Orchestra. He’s had the distinct honor to have studied with legendary bassists Scott Lee, and Kevin MacConnel. He currently lives outside the Philadelphia area where he teaches, and performs.

Just joined the group, but he’s loving it so far and is looking forward to developing many fond memories.

Influences: Paul Chambers, Charlie Parker, Jaco Pastorius, James Jamerson.. An Infinite number of Jazz musicians.