Since its formation in 2014, jazz combo West of Staley has performed throughout their home state of Illinois, and also in Missouri, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. Characterized by a polished, high-energy style, West of Staley includes some of the nation's most accomplished young jazz musicians. The group's CD "You Gotta Start Somewhere" has received radio play in major markets such as Atlanta, San Francisco, Milwaukee, and Dublin, Ireland.
West of Staley co-founder Max Hubbard (alto sax) received the award for top alto performance at the 2017 Essentially Ellington festival in New York. This year, Max has been named a YoungArts winner, and he performed at the 2018 Grammy Awards after party as part of the Grammy in the Schools Jazz Band.
Chris Mondak (bass), also a co-founder of West of Staley, studies with jazz legends Cecil McBee and Dave Holland at the New England Conservatory. Chris's aggressive style is reminiscent of that of Charles Mingus. Chris is a past member of the Jazz Band of America, and a fellow at the Brubeck Institute.
John D’Amico has been playing guitar since he was five years old. After first honing his skills at the New England Conservatory Preparatory School, John enrolled in the Berklee College of Music. John has had the good fortune to study with several outstanding instructors, including Julian Lage, Eric Krasno, Peter Mazza, and Richie Hart.
A native of Rostov, Russia, drummer Ilya Blazh began his music studies at the Kim Nazaretov Jazz School. Ilya is continuing his studies at the Berklee College of Music. He is excited about visiting Florida and performing with West of Staley.