Richard Reiter (sax/flute/EMMY Award winning composer) performs his melodic contemporary jazz, featuring Billy Bungo's African percussion.

12 MP3 Songs
JAZZ: Jazz Fusion, JAZZ: World Fusion



Details:
Originally called Crossing Point, Richard Reiter's contemporary jazz group has dazzled critics since 1985. His three previous recordings (Listener Friendly - 1985, Point of No Return - 1988 and The Time Has Come - 1991) feature Reiter's compositions and received steady airplay on hundreds of radio stations nationwide. Reiter possesses a special gift for melody, and in 1979 he received an EMMY Award for his score to "Generation on the Wind," an Academy Award nominated documentary feature film. Reiter received international attention when the USIA featured his band in three TV shows it broadcast worldwide as part of its series "Arts America."

Performing saxophones, clarinets and flutes, Reiter has appeared as guest jazz soloist with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, on-stage soloist in Bob Fosse's Broadway musical "Dancin'," and backup for such artists as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nancy Wilson, Johnny Mathis, Temptations and Supremes. He has composed over seventy scores for films, TV shows, commercials, dance companies and theaters.

In recognition of his talent, and with a support letter from legendary jazz saxophonist Sonny Rollins, Reiter has been awarded three composition/performance grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. Reiter is listed in the Marquis "Who's Who in Entertainment."
In 1999, Reiter traveled to Dakar, Senegal (West Africa) to perform with many Afro-Pop bands and study African drumming. It was an instant love affair. The musicians loved performing with him and Reiter loved their evocative music. Newspapers wrote articles about him and Senegal's national radio station "Dakar FM" played his CDs. Reiter has infused his new music with these magical sounds and African percussion is now a vital part of his concert performances.


REVIEWS OF REITER'S FIRST THREE CDs
"Richard Reiter has forged a personal sound on his saxophone. His playing is expressive and his compositions are well-crafted." Bill MilkowskiÂDownBeat

"Of all the jazz groups dedicated to the Âpop-jazz' doctrine, Reiter's is the one that adds true distinction to the category." Jeff LevensonÂNew York Correspondent, DownBeat

"Reiter's band is one of the most delightful fusion bands to come skipping around the bend in some time. They provide catchy melodies, fresh solos, and a rare engaging vitality." Lee JeskeÂCash Box

"Yeah, these guys are good! And they do, indeed, sound like a band with a collective vision and unified soul. In all, a highly effective showcase for Reiter and his group." Chuck BergÂJazzTimes

"Multireedman Richard Reiter leads a fine fusion group with results that compare favorably with any band in the style." Fred GoodmanÂBillboard

"Reiter's group plays with the kind of polish and taste that make this highly melodic music certainly worth a spin. Theirs is a clever melding of jazz, New Age and rockish components." Hugh WyattÂNew York Daily News

"This band combines the best characteristics of jazz and rock-funk, and is the kind of group that could give fusion a good name. Richard Reiter is a resourceful soloist who composes exceptionally melodic compositions." George KanzlerÂThe Star Ledger

"Richard Reiter's subtle introduction of urban blues, Latin rhythms and classical elements into the jazz character of his music has earned new respect for the fusion genre."
W. Royal StokesÂThe Washington Post