David Wertman (10/01/52-12/14/13) David Wertman was an internationally acclaimed musician. His recordings have been reissued and made available around the globe; his performances are enjoyed by many since the 1970s, when he became a prominent force in New York City’s New Music scene. He formed his first “Sun Ensemble” in New York and performed regularly with such luminaries as Arthur Blythe and Marion Brown, Terri Jenoure and Dave Pike. David left New York and made his way to Western Massachusetts, where there was a cultural revival. Dave founded a group called “Winds of Change”, with Tony Vacca, percussionist, and Tim Moran (saxophonist). They combined a socially progressive message and urban, West African, and jazz musical traditions to create a unique blend. “Winds of Change” was a popular feature at the Iron Horse Cafe, and was an example of the growing multicultural movement in the Valley. Lynne and Dave met in 1980 and formed The Lynne Meryl Trio. They performed classic Jazz songs from the Great American Songbook. They worked together for many years, including pianists Tom McClung, Nat Needle, and others. Wertman also worked many sessions with Eric Bascomb, Ethel Lee, and other musicians from the area. Lynne said that Wertman “rocked every band!” Meryl, the vocalist, provided the voice for Wertman’s originals in the “Sun Ensemble”, and then the “Spirit Ensemble”. This group included Tony Vacca and Claire Arenius, Charlie Miller and Tim Atherton. Other members of the “Sun Ensemble” were: Lea Macquarrie and Tim Moran, Tim Atherton and Tim Atherton. As a drummer, Dave was a great musician. His deep grooves and open sound were a joy to listen to. Dave’s spirit was big and free, which allowed him to take people on amazing adventures. Claire Arenius Wertman, his wife Lynne, and their many years together as “snowbirds” were a great combination of performing and creating music, and plenty of time to explore the natural world. Dave spent many years in Florida playing at O’hara’s Jazz Club with Dr. Lonnie Smith, Danny Burger and other great musicians. Dave was a member of the major bands Paul Cohen, Duffy Jackson and Michael Rose. He also toured with Ray Anthony and Les Elgart as well as the tribute bands Benny Goodman and Stan Kenton. As a sideman, he performed in shows with Buddy Greco and the Four Freshman, Buddy Greco, Wayne Newton, Wayne Newton, The Crystals, and the Shirelles. David received a flood of support in his final months, when the news about his declining health was made public. To ease his worry, Dave kept his head down and tried to keep the news of David’s illness under wraps. He performed valiantly a few times throughout the Summer and Fall, including at the Loft Lounge on September 27, 2013, with the Nancy Janoson Quintet featuring Lynne Meryl. Dave was energetic and enthusiastic when he arrived, especially during his original composition “Live Well u0026 Prosper.” This made for an electric evening. The message he conveyed to the room was clear: the life spirit is an important gift that we all should not be taking lightly. All those who had the opportunity to listen to David Wertman and to feel the pulsing volcano of that life force have been enriched by the experience. from http://jazz-bluesflorida.blogspot.com
