THE TOBY TOBIAS ENSEMBLE is a Long Island-based band, under the direction of South African-born guitarist and composer, Toby Tobias.
The music of THE TOBY TOBIAS ENSEMBLE can best be described as Modern Folk/Jazz, influenced by Funk & World Rhythms. This description, however, does not do justice to the fantastic arrangements and joyful exhilarating sounds of the band. Toby also performs solo as well as in duet and trio configurations with members of the band, as well as with other well-known New York musicians.
The core of the Ensemble is comprised of Toby Tobias and Mike Nugent, a Huntington, New York guitar player and musician and founder of popular Long Island band Cadillac Moon. Together they have strung together an impressive and eclectic array of original and popular tunes which they have performed at numerous venues throughout Long Island & NYC over the past several years. From a simple duo to a 7-piece larger Ensemble, they have found the right mix of songs, orchestration and performance ability to delight and enthrall crowds wherever they have the opportunity to perform. They are joined by some of Long Island’s premier musicians, including Mario Staiano, drummer for The Kerry Kearney Band, Ray Hauck, perucussionist for numerous Long Island bands including The Mark Newman Band, Tony Barca, on background vocals and bandleader of The Bucket List , Steve Blatt on bass and Valerie Rose Gianotti, also on background vocals.
