Jeff's Bio (in a million words or less)

Born in Washington, D.C., Jeff Ganz relocated with his family to New York City at the age of 13 . Subsequently, at 14, he commenced his professional music career as a guitarist and vocalist, drawing inspiration from the styles of Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton.

At the age of 20, Jeff Ganz made the decision to focus on mastering the bass guitar, recognizing its unique ability to combine harmonic and rhythmic elements, bridging the gap between guitar and drums. His musical education included piano lessons with Bob Weiner, his mentor, and upright bass instruction from esteemed bassists Bill Pemberton, Clyde Lombardi, Homer Mensch, and Derek Jones, a renowned performer on both acoustic and electric bass. To further develop his skills on the electric bass, he sought guidance from the celebrated guitarist and film composer Ira Newborn and the influential jazz musician, Jeff Andrews. Additionally, Jeff Ganz studied drums under the tutelage of Gene Morvay, Ben Gramm, Tony Tedesco, Frank Bellucci, and Don Guinta.

Jeff's objective was to become a sought-after musician across diverse genres. Demonstrating his versatility, he excelled not only on the traditional upright bass but also on various electric and acoustic bass instruments, including fretted and fretless versions in 4, 5, and 8-string configurations, as well as the piccolo bass.

Driven by a desire to exceed expectations, Jeff has cultivated a unique musical identity. His signature style offers dynamic accompaniment on both bass and drums.

His musical influences encompass a wide range of artists, including bassists Willie Dixon, Lee Dorman, Tommy Shannon, Mel Schacher, and George Mraz; vocalists Jack Bruce, Todd Rundgren, Felix Pappalardi, and Bobby "Blue" Bland; and drummers Jo Jones, Carmine Appice, Mickey Sheen, and John Bonham.

Jeff has performed and recorded with a diverse array of esteemed musicians, such as Johnny Winter, Roy Buchanan, John Lee Hooker, Gerry Mulligan, Laurie Anderson, Lou Reed, Tito Puente, Chuck Berry, Joe Morello, Eddie Fisher, The Fifth Dimension, Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes, Eddie Money, The Mamas And The Papas, Buck Dharma (Blue Oyster Cult), Jim Dawson, Christine Lavin, Mark Farner (Grand Funk Railroad), Edgar Winter, Marilyn Michaels, Vanilla Fudge, Sammy Cahn, and Blood, Sweat & Tears, among others.

On Being A Sideman

"As a sideman, it is essential to maintain awareness of the artist whose name appears on the ticket. Regardless of the specific circumstances, one must always perform in a manner that is suitable for the given situation. I have been fortunate to accumulate a rich tapestry of diverse musical experiences, which has undoubtedly enhanced my proficiency across various aspects of music. When confronted with more spontaneous musical settings, I allow the music itself to guide my actions and inform my decisions. Regardless of my performance, I am always striving to match the quality of the music and to contribute to its presentation in the most effective manner possible."

Touring And Recording With Johnny Winter

The opportunity to play with Johnny Winter stemmed from my two-year association with Roy Buchanan. Although Johnny was initially friendly but reserved, we soon developed a strong musical connection. He was particularly interested in my eight-string bass. Johnny once stated that he considered himself more of an entertainer than a musician. While such a comment could be seen as self-deprecating from such a renowned guitarist, it actually facilitated my immediate establishment within his band. He sought an accompanist, not a competitor. I played various basses, contributed featured vocals, and was pleased that Johnny trusted my musical input. I recorded two Grammy-nominated CDs with Johnny, "Let Me In," and "Hey, Where's Your Brother?". Furthermore, I was extensively interviewed and featured in the book "Raisin' Cain, The Wild And Raucous Story Of Johnny Winter."

Recording with John Lee Hooker: 

Recording with a legend is an exceptionally rewarding experience. His embodiment of the blues was unparalleled. Although our single session was brief, lasting only forty-five minutes, it remains a source of great pride. The resulting CD, 'Mr. Lucky,' was also honored with a Grammy nomination.

Playing with Chuck Berry:

"I secured this engagement through Charlie Frazer, a guitarist and friend who assembled backing bands. At the rehearsal, Charlie provided the following instructions: 'When I raise my foot, you play. When I place my foot down, you stop. See you tonight!'"

Touring with Roy Buchanan:

"When Roy and I met, he did not have his own band. I received a call to perform with him, opening for Robin Trower at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, N.J. This marked the commencement of my two-year association with Roy, a guitarist's guitarist. Roy was always eager to perform, regardless of time or location. I felt the same, as Roy's music provided me with a unique opportunity to express myself. It was a powerful blues experience, yet full of unexpected elements. During our time on the road, I got to know Roy quite well. We discovered a shared appreciation for the Bowery Boys films. Roy's generosity was especially meaningful; he gifted me a Bowery Boys anthology. I requested an autograph, and while flattered, he declined. For those interested in learning more about him, "Roy Buchanan: American Axe" by Phil Carson is highly recommended.

In Concert with Ben Vereen:

"One of my earliest and most memorable experiences in the music industry was performing at the Concord Hotel in the Catskills with Ben Vereen. It was incredibly inspiring to play electric bass with a 26-piece orchestra, supporting such a remarkable talent. I have always been an admirer of his work, and accompanying him was truly special. Ben is a consummate performer with outstanding orchestrations, and he is a warm and gracious individual. I had the opportunity to play bass on his Christmas CD 25 years later!"

Working on Broadway:

"The experience of attending musicals with my parents instilled in me a profound appreciation for the art form. My mother took me to 'The Music Man,' while my father introduced me to 'Annie Get Your Gun,' starring Ginger Rogers. Driven by a desire to recreate that unique feeling, I pursued a career performing in Broadway orchestras, both onstage and in the pit. I have had the privilege of working in close collaboration with renowned composers and conductors, including Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephen Schwartz, Jim Steinman, Roger Miller, Galt McDermott, and James Radio. In certain instances, musical input was encouraged, and I found immense satisfaction when my suggestions ended up in the final score."

On Playing Drums:

"My interest in drumming began in my youth, predating my guitar and bass playing. I maintain a strong enthusiasm for the drums, as they significantly enhance my bass playing and fortify my rhythmic abilities. I have performed with various ensembles, including the Ed Palermo Big Band, Kid Kyle, Bob Malone, Kami Lyle, The Hudson River Rats, Milt Milton, The Peter Duchin Orchestra, Lipbone Redding, Red Grammer, and Denny Leroux, in both concert venues and clubs. My drumming has been featured on CDs by The House Of Pernod and Tim Cain, as well as in a Coca-Cola television commercial. I often play live drums on my own musical projects."