Dennis

The soul of the front line. Bringing a rich, brass-driven dynamic to the stage, Dennis adds the "X-factor" that sets Big Horse Band apart from the rest. From the smoky, melodic phrasing of classic ballads to the high-octane growl of rock ‘n’ roll sax, his versatility captures the true spirit of the music. 

Influences

Dennis brings a soulful, melodic edge to The Big Horse Band, with a sound deeply rooted in the legends of the instrument. His primary influence is the "Sound" himself, Stan Getz, whose smooth, lyrical approach to the tenor sax provides the blueprint for Dennis's own phrasing. However, his versatility is equally shaped by icons like Phil Woods and other virtuosos who famously bridged the gap between the jazz world and the pop-rock charts. By drawing on these "crossover" masters, Dennis is able to weave sophisticated jazz sensibilities into the band’s high-energy rock and country sets, delivering those iconic, soaring solos that define their sound.

"Origin Story"

Dennis’s musical journey began with a simple, neighborly inspiration at the age of eleven. After hearing a neighbor play the saxophone, he found himself immediately drawn to the instrument's unique, resonant voice. That early fascination with the "sound" of the sax blossomed into a lifelong pursuit of tonal excellence, eventually leading him to master the lyrical phrasing and crossover styles that have become a hallmark of his performances. What started as a childhood curiosity next door has since evolved into the sophisticated woodwind work that provides the signature melodic flair for Big Horse Band.

Experience

Dennis brings a unique and disciplined perspective to the band, with a musical history that spans six decades. While he first picked up the saxophone about 60 years ago, he has spent 25 of those years actively performing and refining his craft, ensuring his playing remains sharp and soulful. Beyond his musical contributions, Dennis is a proud veteran who served with honor in the United States Marine Corps. That same sense of dedication and "Semper Fi" spirit he carried in the military is evident today in his commitment to the band’s mission.

Memorable gigs or venues from the past

Among the many stages Dennis has graced throughout his career, the 3 Sisters Club in West Paterson stands out as a particularly memorable chapter. Performing at such a legendary local venue allowed him to showcase his jazz-to-rock crossover style in an environment that truly appreciated live musicianship. For Dennis, those nights were about more than just playing notes; they were about the energy of a packed house and the connection with an audience that valued the soulful tone of a well-played saxophone.

Gear

Dennis’ sound is produced on a truly world-class instrument: a Yanagisawa tenor saxophone. This professional-grade horn, which he has played for about 30 years, has aged beautifully, developing a rich, resonant character that newer instruments simply can't replicate. Known among saxophonists for their exceptional intonation and handcrafted precision, Dennis’s "Yany" is the perfect tool for bridging the gap between smooth Stan Getz-style jazz and the high-energy demands of a Big Horse Band rock set.