Ellen Engelke, Bari Sax, Flute, Background Vocals.
” I’m a woodwind player. I started on flute in 4th grade, then picked up the sax decades later. Bari is my superpower! “
Q: Who has inspired you musically?
A: “Gerry Mulligan,Stan Getz, Cannonball Adderley: the ease with which they played, with phrasing that is genuine and spontaneous, like a real conversation with the audience. Also, Grace Kelly, who sometimes sits in with Jon Batiste and Stay Human. She’s petite, but really owns that bari!”
Q: Other groups that you perform with – present and past?
A: “Big Bands: Big Band Swing Express, Pacific Jazz, Deluxe Big Band, The Fabulous Esquires
Super Kitty and the Side Cats Jump Swing Band
Song of the Angels Flute Orchestra (bass flute)
Peninsula Symphonic Winds”
Q: Favorite horn groups?
A: “I 💕love💕 Earth Wind & Fire! Great tunes and amazing performance energy. So positive and uplifting, engaging everyone to have fun and be happy!.”
Q: Other instruments played or activities?
A: “I’m a woodwind player. I started on flute in 4th grade, then picked up the sax decades later. Bari is my superpower! Now, I play piccolo, C flute, alto and bass flutes; alto, tenor and baritone saxes; and Bb and bass clarinet.”
Q: Anything else musically to share?
A: “I was playing in the pit orchestra of “Man of La Mancha” when a director asked me to audition for “Bye Bye Birdie.” I was cast in a featured role, and so began my career in Civic Light Opera. In one production of “Barnum,” I was in the orchestra AND the chorus—all I remember is changing costumes as I ran up and down the stairs between the pit and the stage.”