Absolute Entertainment Live Music MP3s

SOULSTICE SANTA FE

An outstanding professional dance band, highly recommended by wedding and event professionals for weddings, corporate events, private parties, and fundraisers.
Voted "Finest Musical Entertainment For Weddings and Events 2009" by New Mexico Event And Wedding Planner magazine.

Click to visit their website: soulsticesantafe.com

Click to view their videos on YouTube:
Crazy Little Thing Called Love
Wonderful World

Traditional Mariachi Music

 Santa Fe’s deep cultural roots span from its native peoples to those from Spain  and Mexico who settled here. The roots of the Mariachi go back hundreds of years, Mariachi music was the music of country people. Mariachis often help celebrate great moments in the lives of the Mexican people. With the serenata (serenade), the Mariachi participates in the rite of courtship. Mariachis are also commonly hired for baptisms, weddings, patriotic holidays, and even funerals. It is not unusual for the deceased to leave a list of favorite songs to be sung beside the grave at burial. Mariachi music has been incorporated into the Roman Catholic Church's most sacred ritual: the Mass. The Misa Panamericana is a Mariachi folk mass, sung in Spanish, that uses traditional instruments to create vivid new interpretations of the traditional elements of the service: Angelus, Kyrie eleison, Gloria, Alleluia, Offertory, Credo, Sanctus, and Agnus Dei. Here in Santa Fe, Mariachis can be used at a rehearsal dinner party or a ceremony or escorting a bride and groom and their guests to the reception for lively cocktail hour before dinner, or to bring festivity to any gathering. Large seven or eight piece groups include guitars, trumpets and violins, or small groups of four or five \players on guitars and trumpet are available.

click to play:

Jesus Bas

Flamenco “Pop” Singer / Guitarist

Born and raised in Madrid, Spain, Jesus Bas has established himself as a consummate entertainer in his twenty years as a professional musician. He has delighted a vast range of audiences, performing “on tour” engagements, concert halls, nightclubs, private parties, weddings and countless other events. In 1995, Jesus came to the U.S. after an extensive musical career in his native Spain, and made San Diego California his second home. He performed nightly at the historic Hotel del Coronado during 2000 and 2001 before moving to Santa Fe, New Mexico where he now resides. Armed with his Spanish guitar, a melodious and powerful voice, this seasoned singer/songwriter has created a style, which unites the music of Spain and Latin America with the rich harmony of jazz, allowing his audience to sample the flavor and passion of his heritage. Whether the mood calls for solo guitar, intimate ballads or pulsating Latin and Flamenco rhythms, Jesus offers a unique and unforgettable musical experience. We frequently book Jesus for private parties and to play a cocktail hour prior to the band Soulstice performing at a wedding reception. Jesus has released three albums of original music: “Sketches”(1995) “Natural” (2000) “Ahi Va” (2001)

Roberto Capocchi

Classical and Brazilian Guitarist
Guitarist Roberto Capocchi has performed to critical acclaim throughout the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Canada and Belgium. He has won top prizes in competitions such as the Sholin Memorial, Stevens Guitar Competition, Young Concert Artists, Villa-lobos Competition, Souza Lima Guitar Competition, Aracatuba Festival, Saint Marcelina Chamber Music Competition, and Mozarteum Competition. In addition to his solo career, Mr. Capocchi performs regularly with violinist Ellen Chavez de Leitner as Duo Guadalupe. Their new release titled Duo Guadalupe: Music for Violin and Guitar features Baroque, Classical and Modern music. Combining Classical music, Latin and Brazilian Jazz, from Bach and Brahms to Piazzolla and Jobim, Roberto's innovative programs often include premieres of music by composers such as Daniel Asia, Giacomo Bartolloni and Paulo de Tarso. He has taught at MUSICI, Souza Lima Conservatory, and University of Arizona, Mr. Capocchi was born in Brazil, where he received music degrees from the Lins de Vasconcelos Conservatory and Carlos Gomes College. From the University of Arizona, he holds a Master of Music Degree in Music Performance, and a doctorate, (D. M. A. - abd) in Performance and Music Theory. Favorable reviews often stress Mr. Capocchi's expressiveness, technical fluency, and engaging stage presence. The guitars he uses are a 1988 Sergio Abreu, from Brazil, and a 1996 Gioachino Giussani, from Italy. We frequently book Roberto for wedding ceremonies and private parties.

Chuscales

Flamenco Guitarist
Internationally recognized as one of a new breed of flamenco guitarists who combine fluid technique and close study of contemporary musical forms to move the flamenco guitar into new territory. He has been the principal guitarist and musical director for the Maria Benitiz Teatro Flamenco since 1987 as well as performing in New York annually with the show. Chuscales was born in Antequera (Malaga), Spain and raised in Granada in a family of professional musicians and dancers. He began performing at age six and made his professional debut at fourteen in tablaos flamencos. He began studying with Paco de Lucia in 1970. Chuscales has toured Canada, Europe, South America, Japan and the United States. He has accompanied such artists as La Singla, Mario Maya, La Chunga, Farruco, La Tati, El Guita, Joaquin Fajardo, La Poloca and many others. He currently resides with his family in Santa Fe, New Mexico and is available for bookings. Chuscales is featured on three CDs: Forever In My Heart, Gypsy Soul, Midnight in Madrid. Chusco is a favorite for private parties or with a full Flamenco show including singer and dancers.

Tito and Petra

Guitar Duo - Classical and Latin American
Petra was born in Prague, Czechoslovkia. She began playing guitar when she was 12 years old. In 1980 she and her family moved to Canada where she studied with Czech guitarist Antonin Bartos. At the age of 17 she spent a year in Brazil which greatly influenced her musical style. Petra then obtained a degree in music interpretation from McGill University in Montreal and proceeded to get a Masters Degree at Universite de Montreal. Since then she continues to perform and teach, realizing more and more the importance and power of music in our lives. Tito was born in the city of La Paz, in the Andean country of Bolivia, South America. He recognized the guitar as his musical instrument at the age of 8 years old, and has worked with this instrument ever since. Tito moved to the United States when he was 12 and continued his guitar training in San Francisco, with guitarist Paul Binkley. After studying classical guitar for 8 years, he refined his style by working with traditional music from Latin America including music from the Andes. Having played and toured the United States and overseas with renowned bands such as Sukay and Toyos, today he continues to practice his love for music with his duo Tito and Petra. They strive that each musical note fills your heart with joy and inspiration as it does theirs when they play them. Tito and Petra have delighted clients playing wedding ceremonies, receptions and private parties.

Savor

Cuban / Latin - Singing Instrumental Group
Savor is an acoustic group of guitar/ doubling mandolin, bass and percussion with vocals and harmonies that create a rich sound. They play Cuban and Latin music with Afro-Cuban rhythms. Encompassing many years of performing experience, Savor brings warmth and celebration to any gathering. Being acoustic, they can move around and perform from different locations during an event. Prior to forming Savor, Victor traveled the world performing and directing his orchestra, The LA Express. He has recorded for the AAPA and North To South labels. He sings and plays guitar and mandolin. Nanette brings many years of touring and musical performing experience to Savor, playing double bass. JJ has studied many styles of music including salsa and Afro-Cuban. He sings tenor and plays bongo, conga and hand percussion.

Matthew

Vocalist and Guitarist - Contemporary Music and Original Compositions
A unique and popular local singer/ guitarist/ composer who’s live performance exceeds his recorded sound, Matthew combines an infectious rhythmic guitar with an accomplished vocal style that combines elements of jazz and R & B singers into a wonderful and sophisticated musical delight. Here’s a review from the New Mexican: “Imagine a cat Stevens song chart, a Stevie Wonder vocal attack and the voluptuous vision of Prince, splice in some funky flamenco guitar riffs and on several tunes, the witty arrangements of a Lyle Lovett…. not caged by pop formula… Matthew reaches for the ineffable bittersweet cornucopia of experience that life presents” Matthew’s performances include PBS TV at the Winter Olympic Games, CBS Movie of the Week, “ The Staircase,” National Public Radio, World Expo- Hanover Germany.

Pat

Jazz and Contemporary Music
Pat performs with professionalism, versatility and pure energy that captivates and inspires his audiences. Pat has a devoted following in Chicago, Austin and Santa Fe from his live performances, and is a favorite in the studio. Throughout his career, Pat has played with many outstanding musicians, including Pete Christlieb (Steely Dan, Doc Severenson), Bobby Doyle (Blood, Sweat & Tears – CBS), Bill Ginn (Famous Blue Raincoat Leonard Cohen, Jennifer Warren), Eric Johnson, Lonnie Mack, Kim Stone (Spyra Gyra), Mitch Watkins, Spencer Starnes, Peter Rowan, John Mills, Junior Brown, Mike Turk, Jimmy Carl Black (Frank Zappa Mothers of Invention) and Kirk Waylum. Pat has worked as a guitarist and vocalist on hundreds of projects. A disciplined student of music since the age of 9, Pat has studied under an impressive list of great teachers. He completed master classes with Jack Cecchini in Chicago, through whom he conducted workshops with many guitarists including Joe Pass and Joe Diorio. Pat’s repertoire includes a wide range of original compositions, latin, jazz and popular Standards.

MP3 DEMOSclick to play

Rick

Rick, Guitar and Vocals
Rick plays a wide range of music: Classical Guitar, Flamenco, Country, Blues, Cajun and Pop. His versatility, accomplishment and professionalism has made him well received at every event we have booked him for. "We were VERY happy with the entertainment provided for our group dinner at La Fonda by Rick. I would recommend him highly. Thank you. Michelle O."

MP3 DEMOSclick to play

CLASSICAL

Classical String Quartet, Trio, Duo

Symphony quality classical string groups playing wonderful wedding ceremony selections by composers such as Bach, Handel, Mozart, Pachelbel, Vivaldi, Purcell, Mendelssohn, Beethoven, Clarke and others. Choose your favorite pieces from their repertoire to create a magical musical experience to enhance your ceremony.

MP3 DEMOS  click to play  

Duo Dolce

Charly and Rosalind have been musical colleagues in Santa Fe for many years, playing together for weddings and celebrations, and in orchestral, choral and chamber music concerts. Rosalind’s international classical career contributes brilliance to Duo Dolce while Charly’s background in classical, Jazz and world music adds sparkle to every occasion. They look forward to working with you to choose the perfect music – classical flute and harp, Celtic, and timeless popular melodies – for your special event.

MP3 DEMOS  click to play  

Classical Harpist

Consider the Harp, the most romantic of all musical instruments, for your wedding music. You can choose from the traditional wedding repertoire, request your favorite songs, or explore unusual classical and popular favorites that will give your wedding ceremony and reception a special flair.

MP3 DEMOS  click to play  

Monika

Monika, mezzo-soprano, attended Loyola University in New Orleans where she studied with Ellen Frohnmayer. Monika was a founding member of The Bel Canto Quartet who were sponsored by The Gulf Coast Opera as part of their 2000 opera season. Featured artist and solo appearances include; Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, at the Superior Music Festival in Marquette, Michigan; the Brahm's German Requiem at the University of Southern Mississippi; the Kodaly Te Deum and Mendelssohn's Elijah with the New Orleans Philharmonic Orchestra; Faure' Requiem and Rutter Requiem with Loyola University and the Mozart Requiem with the Okaloosa-Walton Community Orchestra; Britten's Ceremony of Carols with The Pensacola Chorale Society and the Mother Abbess in Rodgers & Hammerstein's musical, The Sound of Music, staged at the Pensacola Saenger Theatre by St. Mary's Productions. She performed and recorded with The Gregg Smith Singers in New York City from 1994-95, during their 40th year anniversary, which included a tour of the U. S. and Mexico with concerts at Julliard School in Manhattan, the Museum of Art in Los Angeles and the Palacio de Belles Artes in Mexico City. Since arriving in Santa Fe, appearances include mezzo soloist in Verdi's Requiem with The College of Santa Fe, soprano soloist in Ralph Vaughn William's Dona Nobis Pacem with Sangre De Cristo Chorale; alto soloist for Missa in F Major, BWV 233 composed by Bach and soprano soloist for Felix Mendelssohn's Psalm XLII (As The Hart Pants), both with Canticum Novum.

MP3 DEMOS  click to play  

Spanish Flamenco Dance, Singer and Guitar Show

Thrill your private or corporate group with an unforgetable world class exhibition of Flamenco music and dance in Spanish costume.

Native American Flutist / Drummers / Dancers / Storyteller

When played for a wedding ceremony, Native American flute evokes a sacred mood that captures Santa Fe’s spirit. When played for a reception or other gatherings an additional guitar background can be added.

For corporate groups we also have native story tellers, drummers and dancers who provide informative and colorful insights into the rich, ancient history and culture of this region.

Country Bands, Country Duo, Cowboy Poet and Storyteller

If your party or corporate group has a western theme in mind we can provide the perfect country music or cowboy poet / storyteller to set the mood. Dance Instructors can also teach your group to line dance or two-step the night away.

Bagpiper

Striking in authentic Scottish attire, our bagpiper plays for ceremonies and often leads a procession of delighted guests from the chapel to the reception.

Vicky Speer and the Absolute Jazz Group

Perfect for corporate and private parties: cocktail and dinner jazz from the Absolute Jazz Group featuring the intimate vocals of Vicky Speer. A reception for Microsoft, Santa Fe Institute and a Los Alamos Labs international symposium dinner were all recent events where the group added a comfortable brilliance to the evening’s festivities. Playing jazz standards and the great American Songbook made immortal by Ella and Frank and reinterpreted more recently by Diana Krall and Michael Bublé, let Vicky and the Absolute Jazz group add their magic to your event.

Instrumental Jazz

Featuring some of the finest jazz musicians in New Mexico, we have ensembles of varying size and instrumentation, whose tasty sounds will enliven any private party or event.

The Alpha Cats

The Alpha Cats are fun. Upon hearing them it is immediately apparent that these fine musicians are dear friends having a blast together. Unlike the more familiar "serious" approach taken by many other great jazz players the Alpha Cats take a more playful swipe at music. All four of these fabulous felines are well established, highly respected members of the New Mexico music scene with "first call" status as frequent freelancers. Already a staple of the Santa Fe scene they're well on their way to becoming an Albuquerque favorite. The group consists of Lewis Winn and George Langston on guitars, Susan Hyde Holmes on bass, and Cal Haines on drums. The material, both originals and standards, ranges from classic jazz and western swing to blues, bossas and ballads. The theme is always about having fun. Serious fun.

The RHM Trio

Dick,Tom, and Dave are the RHM Trio, playing classic favorites of the standard jazz repertoire. The trio is available for work in the Santa Fe area. Tom plays trumpet and keyboards. Dick plays drums and sings. Dave plays upright bass. Tom has played on the road with Ray Charles, backed up Frank Sinatra, toured with the Glenn Miller Band and many other well known professional singers and musicians. Dick worked the Catskills in NY as a show drummer, played a couple of years on cruise ships, and toured with the Jimmy Durante show/orchestra. Dave was a founding member of the New Mexico Jazz Workshop. He has played with many well-known local bands including the Al and Norma Tell Quartet, Yoboso, and Soulstice. All three have worked at Bishops Lodge, El Meson, Las Campanas, the Eldorado Hotel, Santa Fe Brewery, La Fonda, the Inn at Loretto, and many other Santa Fe venues.

Bert's Jazz Piano Trio

Bert's jazz piano complemented by double bass and drums bring accomplished precision, excitement and imaginative taste to jazz gems such as the three featured here. In his thirty years as a renowned jazz pianist, Bert Dalton has performed with Herbie Mann, Gene Lees, Anita O’Day, Daniel Binelli, Regina Carter, Von Freeman, Pete Barbutti, Victor Mendoza, Greg Abate, Butch Miles, Doug Lawrence, Don Burrows, Spike Robinson, Ira Sullivan, John Clayton, Jeff Hamilton, Paul Wertico, Steve Rodby, Dr. Art Davis, Frank Morgan, Bud Shank, and Howard Alden. Bert has toured extensively throughout the U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii, as well as three tours of Australia and New Zealand, most recently headlining the Manly International Jazz Festival, Australia’s largest.

David

Broadway Pianist
David has had an illustrious, twenty year career as a pianist and conductor for such record breaking shows as Cats, Les Miserables, The Lion King, The Producers, Wicked, Miss Saigon, Fosse and The Last Five Years. Legendary composers Stephen Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Weber have requested David to perform their music in concert and theatre settings. David has also played for and coached such world renowned singers as Sara brightman, Michael Crawford, Betty Buckley, Rita Moreno, Cassandra Wilson, Hugh Jackman and Linda Eder. David is now available for your listening pleasure!