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The Mel-tones |
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From left to right around Gerri: Melvin Butts, saxophone; Vincent Khoe, piano; Alexander Smith, bass; and Glen Iwaoka, drums.
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Gerri
Harris on Vocals: From the choir to R&B to Jazz, Gerri has always
been a singer. Originally from the East Coast, she made California
her home almost 20 years ago. She has performed with numerous musicians
throughout the Bay Area including the late Jazz great, Merrill Hoover.
She trained vocally with the late Judy Davis and was selected one
year ago as the Mel-tones' vocalist.
Melvin
Butts on Saxophone: Veteran Saxophonist, arranger and teacher.
Known for his incredible arrangements and style, Melvin has toured
with such jazz greats as Ray Charles, Johnny Otis and Barbara Morrisen,
to name a few. Formed a unit of young Bay Area musicians whom he
continues to coach. As founder and Music Director of the Mel-tones,
he has carefully selected each member of the group and is 
Vincent
Khoe on Piano: Discovered his ability to compose music over
7 years ago in NYC and has continued playing original music & Jazz
ever since. Vincent is originally from Hong Kong, and now resides
in the Bay area playing piano professionally for the past 4 years.
Alexander
Smith on Bass: Comes from a professional R&B background as an
Electric Bassist during the 80’s/90’s. Discovered Jazz and embarked
on Stand-up Bass over 5 years ago. Alex currently plays throughout
the Northern & Southern California with the Mel-tones as well as
various other bands and artists.
Glen
Iwaoka on Drums: Native of San Mateo is one of the great craftsmen
on drums. He is often referred as the “Quiet Storm”. In much demand
because of his light touch and solid rhythm, Glen has been featured
and toured with various theatre companies on percussions.
