Tony Dagradi, a tenor and soprano player, has lived in New Orleans for over 30 years. He’s performed with many of New Orleans’ most renowned artists including Ellis Marsalis and Allen Toussaint as well as Dr. John, James Black and Johnny Adams. He is an internationally recognized performer, composer and author, as well as an educator. He often assists the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra’s woodwind section. He has performed with Bobby McFerrin and Mose Allison for five years. Dagradi is best known for his work as Astral Project, an innovative quintet of New Orleans musicians dedicated to playing cutting-edge jazz improvisational music. The band has been performing all over the globe for many years, earning universal praise for being one of the most original and compelling jazz bands in the world. Visit the Astral Project website for more information. Dagradi is a Professor of Jazz Studies and Saxophone at Loyola University, New Orleans. He teaches classes in jazz improvisation and leads various ensembles. Visit www.tonydagradi.com
