As an instrumentalist, vocalist, bandleader, Master of Ceremonies, producer, and talent manager, David has been providing quality entertainment in the Washington area for over 25 years. In 2003 David received the Jazz History Appreciation Month Award from the Department of the Interior for his “musical achievements, accomplishments, and dedication…” Congress created the Jazz History Appreciation Month Award in 1987, and Presidents Clinton and G.W. Bush ordered that awards be given to recognize outstanding contributors to the art of jazz.
He retired as a member of “The President’s Own,” The United States Marine Band, with more than 20 years of service. During that time, he served 6 presidents. He was principal bassoonist in the White House Chamber Orchestra and Concert Band. David performed as solo saxophonist and vocalist with the 8 member White House Dance Band.
He earned his Bachelor of Music degree, Magna cum Laude, from Shenandoah Conservatory of Music (’73). Next came acceptance to The Juilliard School of Music and studies with the world-renowned bassoonist, William Polisi. David received his Master of Music degree in Performance from The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC. (’74). While still attending conservatory he took the summer and toured with Stax Records, accompanying such artists as Isaac Hayes and Luther Ingram. Both artists had number 1 song hits that year (1972). David also appeared in the movie, Watts/Stax ’72, and in Rob Reiner’s film, A Few Good Men (1992). His longest association with television production was performing with numerous artists during the 14 years of the popular, “In Performance at the White House” (1980-1994), as well as many other PBS Television Specials and Soundtracks.
A partial list of Mr. Wright’s Performance & Production Credits include: (Both as a freelance musician and contractor, and as a member of the Marine Band):
Performed with: Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Tony Bennett, Mel Torme, Cab Calloway, Nancy Wilson, American Jazz Philharmonic (Arturo Sandoval, Grady Tate, Antonio Hart), Pete Fountain, Al Hirt, Quincy Jones, Bob Hope, Neil Diamond, Marvin Hamlish, Mary Martin, Robert Goulet, Pearl Bailey, The 5th Dimension, Bobby Rydell, Little Anthony & The Imperials, Temptations, Captain & Tenelle, Tony Orlando & Dawn, Clint Holmes, The Judds, Lee Greenwood, Eddie Rabbit, Gary Morris, Jesse Norman, The New York City Ballet, Beverly Sills, Washington Opera (on stage performance, Don Giovanni), Jim Henson & The Muppets.
As a Producer/Assistant Producer: Marilyn Horne, James Earl Jones, Cab Calloway, Rita Moreno, Karen Akers, Angela Landsbury, Garrison Keillor, Delta Burke, Lynda Carter, Tramaine Hawkins & Richard Smallwood (Gospel).
