Drums & Vocals – Sonnie Bernardi – Sonnie has performed and recorded with many top Canadian rock and blues legends including Ronnie Hawkins, The Guess Who , King Biscuit Boy and Downchild. Sonnie was an original member of the classic band Crowbar and can be heard on their various albums as well as their 1971 hit single, “Oh What a Feeling “
Electric and Upright Bass – Dave Johns – Dave has performed and recorded with many Toronto area musicians and groups including the Meters, Steely Dan cover band Pretzel Logic as well the 905 Band. Dave is a graduate of the Humber College Music program and currently mentors students as a bass and guitar instructor with Long and McQuade.
Vocals, Percussion – Chris Whelehan – Chris adds his own versatile vocal styling to the 905 sound with great harmonies and keeps it groovin’ with his steady percussion work. Chris also is a founding member of the Harvest Moon Band.
Lead Vocals, Guitar, Harmonica – Bert Steen – Bert does it all vocally! Joe Cocker, Van Morrison, David Clayton Thomas and his signature harmonica playing is always a hit. Bert also is the founding member of local rock favourites, the Harvest Moon Band.
Trumpet – Neil Christoffersen – Neil has performed with the Juno Nominated Dave McMurdo band as well as in numerous jazz groups in the area. Neil currently teaches trumpet at Long and McQuade and Appleby College. Neil is the contact for booking information for the 905 Band.
contact Neil
Trumpet, Vocals – Andy Gravitis – Andy’s sizzling trumpet anchors the 905 horn section. Andy is the horn arranger for many of the 905 interpretations of classic R&B and rock tunes. Andy studied at Humber college and is a veteran of the Toronto music scene performing with George Oliver and GangBusters.
Trombone – Russ Little – Canadian Jazz Awards winner, Best Trombonist and feature performer at the TD Toronto Jazz Festival, Russ’s critically acclaimed playing has energized many the top bands in Canada. Russ is an original member of the Juno Award winning group Lighthouse and has played, arranged and composed with the likes of Molly Johnson, Paul Anka, Doctor Music, Boss Brass and David Clayton Thomas. Russ was the music director for the SCTV comedy TV series collaborating with Martin Short and Eugene Levy. Have a listen to Russ’s outstanding solo work on Itunes or visit his website – www.russlittle.com
Baritone Sax, Alto Sax, Flute – Gord Aeichele – Gord’s funky baritone sax and hot alto sax work is a 905 trademark. Gord has played with numerous bands large and small in the Toronto area including The Blue Brothers Revue, Oakland ( TOP tribute) , The Big Smoke Big Band to name a few.
Keyboards – Music Director – Jack Shearer – In addition to holding down the keyboard and arranging duties with the 905 Band, Jack , who received his musical training at the University of Western Ontario has performed and recorded with Harrison Kennedy, Bianca Bernardi, Karen Thornton, the Killin Time Band, and Harvest Moon Band.
Guitar & Vocals – Terry Branagh – Terry lends his guitar stylings regularly with a number of groups in the GTA. Always in demand, Terry’s versatility and great feel are his trademarks . When he’s not on stage , Terry shares his love of guitar playing as a guitar instructor.
Tenor Sax – Michael Stuart – Juno nominated jazz saxophonist, Michael Stuart has performed with Aretha Franklin, Russ Little Quintet, Dave McMurdo Jazz Band and Jimmy McGriff . When not performing with the 905 Band ,Michael performs and records with ex Blood Sweat and Tears frontman, David Clayton Thomas.