Born: December 6, 1963 Primary Instrument: Saxophone
Edmund Velasco is a native Southern Californian that has been recognized as one of the top sax men in the area.
He has played professionally for the past fifteen years with such top names as Mel Torme, Eddie Daniels, Ernie Andrews and many others.
Since the early age of eight, Edmund knew that playing the saxophone was what he wanted to do. When he finally was old enough to play one at age ten, he knew that this would be his life's work.
He has been named the top Tenor Sax Artist in Orange County in 1998 & 1999 by the Orange County Weekly.
He is currently leading his own quintet which has been active for the past eight years, writing and directing as well as producing three CD’s. Alligator Rhythm on Subrosa records (1996) and The Blues in Me (2000) and Smoke Rises (2004). All three recordings have received very favorable reviews in the press. The Blues in me was nominated for the Jazz Recording of the Year by the L.A. Music Awards. As Bob Agnew writes about Smoke Rises” Generating new waves in modern mainstream jazz, the Edmund Velasco Quintet drives forward with energy and a positive outlook. Swinging from start to finish, they turn each session into a festival.” Bob Agnew, LA Jazz Scene April 2004.
Edmund has performed at many important local venues, including the Jazz Bakery in Culver City, Steamers Cafe in Fullerton, and L.A.'s Catalina Bar & Grill. He has also performed for arts and music festivals throughout their state including The Day of Music in Long Beach and The San Jose Jazz Festival. He has also has performed in Portugal at the Manoshinos Festival and the Funchal Jazz Festival.
He can be seen as a featured soloist with The Estrada Brothers Latin Jazz Ensemble and has just finished recording their next CD release. He has also recently joined The Chris Williams Quintet. He has also made many guest appearances with Dan Fanley, Joe LaBarbara, Tony Dumas, Ron Eschete and many others. He has also performed twice at the Playboy Jazz Festival at the Hollywood Bowl.
Fight Night
Revenge of the Red Band
Smoke Rises
Song for Wendy
A Sad Case
For Bob
Smoke Rises at Midnight
My Muse
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