Sonny Bayko
Trombone, Vocals & Percussion
Seems as if I've played music my whole life. Starting at 6 yrs old I played the piano, at 12 yrs old I was playing the trombone and at 22 yrs I tried the bass guitar (couldn't make up my mind, I guess!) I ventured to New York in the Metro area and stayed for 20 years playing with the Right Bros., and the Sunny Daze Revue. I returned to Pittsburgh and played with Roger Humphries Big Band, the Ritz Big Band, the Jazz Workshop Big Band and I'm one of the founding members of Brass Impact.
Johnny Allen
Sax and Vocals
I was doomed from day one. A father who played saxophone, clarinet, piano, violin and recorded with the "Aristocrats" and a mom who played the trumpet. When it came to practice - forget it, I couldn't cheat. With no formal training and being self taught, I started playing the Ukelele on top of a bar counter when I was 4 and getting change thrown at me (collecting it too). I've been playing for over 50 years in numerous bands and enjoying every minute. I've jammed with Charlie Rich (ages ago) and played in "New Blood", "Patchwork" at Conneaut's Beach Club, "The WeeJams" and with "In Transit". When it's in your blood and you feel what you play, it all comes natural.
Rich Namisnak
Drummer
For 40 years I've been playing the drums all without stepping foot into a musical classroom. By the age of seven, I was playing at street fairs and other local events. I've played polkas in the sixties with "Matt Wasielewski & the Polka Jets" here and on various cruise ships. I enjoy listening and performing a variety of music including disco, country and R&B. I also played with Johnny Allen in "New Blood" and "Patchwork" - coincidently we're cousins (family on and off stage).
Jim Brady
Keyboards and Vocals
I have been playing instruments since the third grade. Playing keyboards and trumbone in bands since JR. High School. While studying at Pitt, I played for several years in the Jazz Band with Dr. Nathan Davis directing us - what an amazing musician he is! I am an ER Physician by trade, but a musician by heart. I love playing the classic music that I was brought up with and will never go out of style (even though our hairdos did). Satin Whip, Big Fat Jazz and the Fat Henry Blues Band are a few of the bands I have played with and loved every minute of it. Come and hear us and I think you'll agree with me, that my main reason for joining this band was to hear some great music and to HAVE SOME FUN!
Dave Marsh
Trumpet
I add to Brass Impact Band by playing the Shilke B1 Trumpet. I am a Merchant Marine officer whose interest include music, fishing, and flint knapping. I'm married with two great daughters.
Tom Wright
Guitars and Vocals
I have been playing for 38 years. I've performed all over U.S., Canada, and the Far East. I've warmed up such known acts as Marshall Tucker Band, Firefall, Ricochet and of course the Beach Boys. Now back in Pittsburgh with some old buddies in Brass Impact.
John Popovich
Bass Guitars and Fret board Acrobatics
Been playing a while unless you deduct for marriages and hangovers. I have been lucky enough to play all over the USA doing covers, originals and studio work. Tons of musical styles including Rock, Metal, Country, Salsa, High Energy Dance, R&B, Top 40 etc.. Lots of band along the way. (Some still tight with, others citing musical differences). "I was musical, they were different". Amplicfication: Hartke cabs, Ameg Svt-3Pro, various sundries. Basses: 38 & counting, Fender, Gibson, Ibanez, Rickenbacker, Yamaha, Washburn, and my baby Panacea. Musical influences: Gary Thain of Uriah Heep...
Ken DiNino
Sax (bari and tenor)
A washed up old airplane mechanic. I played baritone and tenor sax since high school, back in the mid nineteen hundreds. I am a member of the Butler County musicians and have played with Doc Rock and the Interns and Big Fat Jazz Band before joining Brass Impact.
Ed Skirtich
Trumpet
I received a Bachelor's of Music Degree from West Virginia University in 1994. While at WVU, I earned the Sudler trophy (just as honorable as the Heismann)!! Presently, I am Artistic Director of Jazz Workshop Inc. It includes conducting brass classes, jazz ensembles, oversee and recruit faculty, organize Outreach Programs, and lead small and large ensembles for Familiy Night Concerts. I've played with Puttin' On the Ritz Band, Brass Impact, Special Company and St. Paul's Cathedral Music Ministry.