Bill O'Connell and the Latin Jazz Allstars July 17, 2011

Pianist and composer Bill O'Connell is a native New Yorker who studied classical music at The Oberlin Conservatory of Music. Early in his career, he played in various salsa and jazz settings that set the tone for his musical style. In 1977, he joined salsa great Mongo Santamaria, writing and performing with him for over two years. Following that he worked with Chet Baker and jazz legend Sonny Rollins. In 1982, he joined Latin jazz flutist Dave Valentin, and they have been touring the world together ever since. Bill is currently performing with trombonist Conrad Herwig, Dave Valentin and his own band.