
Gary Sinise was born in Blue Island, Illinois, to a family who supported his artistic endeavors, and encouraged his drive to create. At the age of 10 his parents bought him his first guitar and he played actively in bands into his 20s. Gary began acting during his sophomore year in high school in Highland Park. After graduating, at the age of 18, he co-founded Steppenwolf Theatre Company of Chicago along with friends Terry Kinney and Jeff Perry. He served as the company's Artistic Director for seven years.

He has since starred in over a dozen productions at the renowned theatre including the role of Tom Joad in The Grapes Of Wrath, for which he earned a Tony Award nomination and a Drama Desk Award; True West, Balm In Gilead, Streamers and The Caretaker. He received a Joseph Jefferson Award for Marsha Norman’s Getting Out at Chicago’s Wisdom Bridge Theatre. He starred as Stanley Kowalski in A Streetcar Named Desire, and Randle Patrick McMurphy in One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest at Steppenwolf, the Barbican Theatre in London, and then on Broadway, earning him another Tony nomination for Best Actor.

Sinise Directed and co-starred with John Malkovich in the landmark production of Sam Shepard’s True West at Steppenwolf and off Broadway, where he received an Obie Award for Best Director. He also directed Sam Shepard’s Buried Child which kicked off Steppenwolf’s 20th Anniversary and continued with a successful run on Broadway where it was nominated for five Tony Awards, including one for Sinise for Best Director. His other Stage Directing credits include Tracers, Frank’s Wild Years, The Miss Firecracker Contest, Waiting for Parade, Action, Road To Nirvana and Landscape Of The Body. He received a Joseph Jefferson Award for his direction of Lyle Kessler’s Orphans, which also played off-Broadway and in London with Albert Finney.

In 1994, Sinise's portrayal of Lt. Dan, in the Academy Award winning film Forrest Gump, brought him mainstream attention and earned him nominations for an Oscar, a Golden Globe and the Screen Actors Guild Award. He received the Best Supporting Actor Award from the National Board of Review, and the Commander’s Award from the Disabled American Veterans for the role as well. He then went on to take starring roles in the acclaimed Apollo 13 opposite Tom Hanks; the thriller Ransom with Mel Gibson and Rene Russo; and Brian DePalma’s psychological thriller Snake Eyes with Nicholas Cage.

He was last seen on the big screen in Columbia Pictures’ The Forgotten with Julianne Moore, and The Human Stain opposite Anthony Hopkins, Nicole Kidman and Ed Harris. He also provided the voice of Shaw in Sony’s animated feature Open Season.

Sinise also made his mark as a feature film Director with Of Mice And Men, which he co-produced and co-starred in with John Malkovich, as well as Miles From Home starring Richard Gere and Kevin Anderson. Both were screened in competition at the Cannes Film Festival.

His other film credits include A Midnight Clear, Jack The Bear, The Quick And The Dead, It's The Rage, The Big Bounce, Gary Fleder’s sci-fi thriller Imposter, John Frankenheimer’s Reindeer Games, Brian DePalma’s Mission To Mars, Frank Darabont’s The Green Mile and Kevin Spacey’s Directorial debut Albino Alligator.

Gary also executive produced the documentary film Brothers At War, a rare look at the bonds and service of our soldiers on the frontlines, and the profound effects their service has on the loved ones they leave behind.

A four-time SAG Award nominee, on television, he acted in Path To War Directed by John Frankenheimer on HBO, Showtime’s adaptation of Jason Miller’s Pulitzer Prize winning play That Championship Season Directed by Paul Sorvino and gave award-winning performances in Truman (Golden Globe, CableACE and Screen Actors Guild) and John Frankenheimer’s George Wallace (Screen Actors Guild, Emmy and CableACE). He also starred in My Name Is Bill W with James Woods, in Stephen King’s The Stand, and in CBS/Hallmark’s Fallen Angel. Gary recently completed a nine season run as Detective Mac Taylor in the hit CBS series CSI NY.

He was the subject of the Fox News documentary, On The Road In Iraq With Our Troops And Gary Sinise, which highlighted his 4th USO tour to Kuwait and Iraq. He is also the subject of the feature length documentary, Lt. Dan Band For The Common Good, a film that follows Gary and his band and is dedicated to remembering those who serve, those who are willing to lay down their lives for others, and those who are left behind. Sinise has also narrated several documentaries for television including When We Left Earth, World War 2 in HD, Game of Honor and Missions That Changed The War.

Beginning in 2003, he has traveled the world performing for the men and women of the Armed Forces with his band, Gary Sinise and The LT Dan Band.


Gary Sinise

James Stuckmann


Jeff Vezain is a singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist/actor/dancer, originally from Chicago, now residing in Los Angeles. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Northern Illinois University where he also performedwith the university chorus, vocal jazz group, jazz combo program, and university big band. Over the past 20 years he’s performed with numerous bands from Chicago and Los Angeles. He has studied songwriting, written and recorded original material and showcased it with live shows ranging from solo-acoustic gigs to full-band performances. For seven years he worked as a dancer with an entertainment company that performed nationwide. Jeff has also studied acting at Chicago’s “Act One Studio,” “The Audition Studio,” and has received on-camera training in Los Angeles. He has appeared in national television commercials, print ads, and has lent his voice to radio spots. He played electric guitar in the four-piece, on-stage band in a rock-opera-style adaptation of the Greek tragedy, “Antigone,” by Sophocles, entitled “God and Country,\" which ran at Victory Gardens Theater in Chicago. A solid drummer as well as guitarist, Jeff was a finalist in his audition for the part of \"Blue Man\" in the hit theatrical show, “Blue Man Group” and workshopped for two days in NYC with members of the New York production. He has also acted in short films, performed in showcases and played the role of Gaveston in a contemporary adaptation of Christopher Marlowe’s classic, “King Edward the II” at the Bailiwick Theater in Chicago. Web Links: [facebook.com/jeffvezain](http://facebook.com/jeffvezain) | [jeffvezain.com](http://jeffvezain.com)


Jeff Vezain


Ernie Denov has been playing guitar professionally for almost 30 years. Being the son of a professional symphony orchestra musician, he was exposed to music from an early age, and after starting out on piano for two years, decided that he wanted to play guitar and grow up to be a rock star. Somewhere along the way, reality set in and Ernie focused his efforts on being able to play convincingly within multiple musical genres. This endeavor proved to be fruitful, as he ended up becoming a member of various working rock, funk, jazz, blues, fusion, latin and pop bands, often finding himself playing a different style of music with a different band every night of the week.

In 1986, Ernie, yearning to write and perform his own original material, founded and led a progressive rock/jazz fusion quartet called Bad Dog U. The group quickly developed a cult following of loyal fans in the Chicago area, many of whom were fellow professional musicians. After 18 years of performing in clubs and making demo recordings, Bad Dog U finally released it's self titled debut in 2004.

In the span of his career, Ernie has recorded or played live with Richard Marx, Dennis DeYoung, Sheila Jordan, Von Freeman, Terry Callier, Dave Valentin, Bobby Hart, Airto Moreira, Howard Levy, Darryl Jones, Liquid Soul, Ira Sullivan, Paul Wertico, Victor Bailey and many other musical artists.

Ernie is proud to be one of the original members of The Lt. Dan Band, with whom he has performed for some of the largest and most receptive audiences and seen more of the world than he ever had in his lengthy career.


Ernie Denov

Tristan Beache


Pianist Ben Lewis, “one of the best kept secrets in Chicago” (Mark Ruffin – Listen Here! Radio), is a nineteen year veteran of the Chicago music scene. His professional experience has run the gamut, from performing with such local luminaries as vocalist Grazyna Auguscik and trumpeter Tito Carillo to being a founding member and current Musical Director of the Lt. Dan Band.

Ben brings to his playing a unique sense of power, humor and grace. From "shimmering pianism" to "go-for-broke energy" (Howard Reich - Chicago Tribune), his music takes the listener for a wild ride.

A graduate of Indiana University, Ben has toured through East Asia and West Africa as a Jazz Ambassador for the U.S. State Department, and was a featured solo artist at the 2006 Chicago Jazz Festival. While not traveling with the Lt. Dan Band, Ben continues to work as a full-time musician in the Chicago area with bands such as Rico and Psycles.

Web Links : [benmusic.net](http://benmusic.net) | [facebook.com/psycles](http://facebook.com/psycles) | [ricojams.com](http://ricojams.com)


Ben Lewis


Karl Montzka is a freelance pianist/keyboardist in Chicago. He
has performed with his own group at the '98 and ‘08 Chicago
Jazz Festival, '98 Iowa City Jazz Festival, as well as many
venues across the country. In November of ’09, Karl had the
honor of playing a USO tour of Afghanistan with Gary Sinise
and the Lt Dan Band, and worked with them most recently in
Hawaii for the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Montzka has
also played for numerous Broadway in Chicago productions,
including Lion King, Wicked, Billy Elliot, The Book of Mormon,
and national tours of Motown and The Last Ship. Most recently,
he has been a substitute conductor and keyboardist for the
Hamilton Chicago, as well as two national tours.


Karl Montzka

Kim Wheeler

Scott Steiner


A singer/actor originally from St. Paul, MN, Molly Callinan started performing at an early age by knocking on her neighbors' doors and asking for candy/loose change in exchange for a song. Molly has since made Chicago her home, and has lead Chicago bands Catfight, Black Betty, and can currently be seen singing with Rock Candy. Molly's passion for musical theater landed her memorable roles in shows such as Gypsy (with Patti Lupone), Rocky Horror Picture Show (Magenta), Hair, A Funny Thing Happened...Forum (Gymnasia), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (Esmeralda), and the National Tour of Dirty Dancing (Vivian Pressman).

Molly is a fan of yoga, her family, red meat, and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and is truly excited and honored to entertain alongside such talents as Gary Sinise and The Lt. Dan Band.

[mollycallinan.com](http://mollycallinan.com)


Molly Callinan


Danny Gottlieb is one of the most popular drummers in jazz and contemporary music. While best known as a founding member of the original Pat Metheny Group, Danny, during the past 40 years, has recorded or performed with Chick Corea, Bobby McFerrin, Gil Evans, Sting, John Mclaughlin, Gary Burton, Al Di Meola, Larry Coryell, David Byrne, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, The Manhattan Transfer, Stan Getz, Gerry Mulligan, Clark Terry, The Blues Brothers Band featuring Steve Cropper and Eddie Floyd, Booker T and The MG’s, Bobby Rydell, Michael Franks, Maria Schneider, Dr. John, Bernie Williams, Jeff Berlin, Mark Egan, Muriel Anderson, and many more.  Danny has been featured on over 400 recordings to date, including 4 Grammy Award Winners. Danny met Gary while performing with his wife, Beth, at the EPCOT Candlelight Orchestra at Walt Disney World, and has been a member of the LTDB since 2004.

In addition to his performing and recording career, Danny is a tenured Associate Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of North Florida, in Jacksonville. An avid music collector and researcher, Danny recently received a UNF Foundation grant to partner with the Carpenter Library in creating a UNF jazz archive. The archive will feature the collections of founder Rich Matteson, Professor Emertis Bunky Green, and more than 315 live New York Jazz concerts produced by Jack Kleinsinger ([digitalcommons.unf.edu](http://digitalcommons.unf.edu))

In 2011, Danny released his bestselling “Evolution of Jazz Drumming” workbook (Hudson Music/ Hal Leonard) which has received world wide acclaim and is one of Amazon’s top selling percussion books. Danny is also featured in an educational dvd produced by True Fire (Jazz Drumming Masterclass), 10 instructional drum DVD’s for the Mel Bay Company, including 3 with his teacher, jazz legend Joe Morello (Dave Brubeck). He has also co-authored two drumming texts with Nashville based drummer Michael Green (Mel Bay).

Danny explains: “From both a musical and personal standpoint, playing with the Lt. Dan Band has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. Gary is one of the most talented and amazing people on the planet, and the experience of playing music to help people in need, raising money and supporting great causes-it’s changed the way I look at everything! When you see a community coming together in support of a local hero, it feels like you are part of something that is really making a difference. And I love and admire everyone in this band. We’re a great bunch of friends, and what a talented group of musicians! And Gary, as a bass player, is a great rhythm section partner who, as with his acting, has a great sense of artistry, organization and orchestration.

From a drumming standpoint, I have always loved playing every style of music, and playing in the LTDB is very challenging. We play well over two hours, all classic songs by some of the word’s greatest popular musicians, and each song must be played with the correct stylistic approach and intensity of the original band. When we play an “Earth Wind and Fire” tune, I am trying to play with the intensity and feel of Sonny Emory. When we play Baba O’Riley, I am trying to have the intensity of Keith Moon. It’s not such an easy task, being that my forte is playing jazz and trying to sound different each time I play! And to play and share it all, with my wife, Beth, is the greatest gift of all. We are great partners, musically and in life, and we get to add our collective intensity to the mix”.

Danny and Beth also perform many concerts and clinics around the world as the "Gottlieb duo". They have performed in Norway, The UK, Denmark, Latvia and Switzerland. In June of 2013, they were featured in workshops and concerts in the Italian Music Conservatory of Pescara. They also continue to perform seasonally with the Epcot Candlelight Orchestra at Walt Disney World.   
Danny holds a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Miami, and has studied with Joe Morello, Gary Chester, Mel Lewis, Bob Moses, Ed Soph, and Jack DeJohnette. Danny plays Zildjian Cymbals, Remo Drum Heads, Hot Sticks, Eames Drum Shells,  Mark Electronic Drums, Regal Tip Brushes, Hammerax Percussion,  DW Drums and Hardware, Alternate Mode (Kat) Products, Shure Microphones and LP Percussion.

Danny has been on the covers of Modern Drummer, Downbeat, and Rhythm magazines, and in 2012, the covers of Strumenti Musicali (Italy), Electronic Drummer, Bergish Gladbach Magazine (Germany), and in 2013, an entertainment journal in Finland.  He currently writes a monthly "Jazz Practice Pad" article for DRUM! magazine, and contributed an interview CD in the recent edition of Gary Chester’s classic drum book, “The New Breed”. He also contributed an article for the re-release of one of the great drum methods of all time, George Lawrence Stone’s “Accents and Rebounds” ([stonepercussionbooks.com](http://stonepercussionbooks.com))

Web Links : [dannygottlieb.org](http://dannygottlieb.org)


Danny Gottlieb


Gina Gonzalez (guitar, vocals) has acquired quite a musical resume. She has traveled all over the world and the U.S. enchanting and entertaining the hearts of many. Gina has performed for some of the highest ranking military personnel to famous actors and respected fellow artists. She has earned awards
for recognition including honors from the U.S. Congress and the Congressional Medal of Honor Foundation.

Born into a big family, Gina is the youngest of nine children and from a very early age they knew she had a musical gift. As little as 4 years old, Gina was placed on top of the piano at family gatherings to perform songs while a family member would accompany her on piano. As she grew older, her voice took shape and people began to take notice. She caught the ear of actor Gary Sinise and from that moment her life would change.

Gina began touring with the Lt. Dan Band featuring actor Gary Sinise in 2004, performing shows for the United States military. During her time with the band she composed a song, “A Letter Home” that was written specifically for the men and women who serve. This song has been featured in a full length documentary and continues to gain recognition for its honest and emotional portrayal of being part of the military.

As a singer/songwriter, Gina has just released her 3rd self titled EP incorporating rock, blues and folk influences all surrounding her silky rich voice. Gina plays anything from Etta James to Alice in Chains and will deliver a performance that will leave you wanting more!

[ginagonzalez.com](http://www.ginagonzalez.com/)


Gina Gonzalez


Master Sergeant (retired) Harry Watters served for 22 years with The United States Army Band (Pershing’s Own) in Washington, DC. He currently has multiple solo CD releases, along with three critically acclaimed Brothers discs with trumpeter Ken Watters.

After graduation from the University of North Texas, Harry spent four years touring and recording with the renowned Dukes of Dixieland. While working at night on Bourbon Street sleep-deprived Watters attended the University of New Orleans by day, serving as the graduate assistant to Professor Ellis Marsalis.

Watters has performed with Doc Severinsen, Al Hirt, Pete Fountain, Erich Kunzel, Kevin Mahogany, Wycliffe Gordon, Lou Rawls, Maureen McGovern, Bill Watrous, Carl Fontana, Jiggs Whiggam, James Moody, Peter Erskine, Conrad Herwig, John Fedchock and the Boston Brass. In addition, Harry has appeared as a featured soloist with the Syracuse Symphony, the Baton Rouge Symphony, the Louisiana Philharmonic, the Tulsa Pops, the West Virginia Symphony, the University of North Texas One O'Clock Lab Band, the Janacek Philharmonic, the Moldovan Festival Orchestra and the U.S. Army Orchestra.

As a clinician, Harry has presented his “Power Practicing” seminars at the Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic, the American Band College, the Jazz Education Network National Conference, the Association of Concert Bands' National Convention, and at universities and conservatories across the nation and overseas.

Harry is married to violist and keyboardist Master Sergeant (retired) Holly Watters, formerly of the U.S. Army Strings. They now reside in Florida with their three children Harry V, Katherine the 1st & Lady Caroline. Watters is honored to perform with The Lt. Dan Band.


Harry Watters


Kirk Garrison has been a member of the Lt. Dan Band since 2005. A veteran of the
Chicago jazz scene, trumpeter/arranger he attended college in his home state of
Minnesota before serving in the United States Air Force Band. After leaving the Air
Force in 1992, he completed his masters degree in Jazz Studies at DePaul University.
For the next 25 years, he served as an adjunct faculty member at several universities in
the Chicago for before recently accepting a position as Director of the Jazz Studies at
Elmhurst University, Elmhurst Illinois. He is in high demand as a performer, composer,
teacher and arranger and has received commissions from DePaul University, the
Chicago String Ensemble, and the Millar Brass Ensemble at Northwestern University,
and for internationally renowned jazz artists saxophonist Phil Woods and drummer Jeff
Hamilton.

Kirk has appeared with Louie Bellson, Tony Bennett, Kenny Burrell, Dave Brubeck, Ron
Carter, Bill Champlin, Brett Eldridge, Peter Erskine, Lady Gaga, Jon Faddis, Aretha
Franklin, Marvin Hamlisch, Herbie Hancock, Bob Hope, Kevin Mahogany, Tom “Bones”
Malone, Frank Mantooth, “Blue Lou” Marini, Johnny Mathis, Rita Moreno, Don Rickles,
Dianne Schuur, Danny Seraphine, Ed Shaughnessy, Frank Sinatra, Jr., Clark Terry,
Frank Wess, Joe Williams, Nancy Wilson and Phil Woods. Other performance credits
include the International Music Festival in Hue, Vietnam, the Ravinia Music Festival, the
Chicago Blues Festival, Chicago Jazz Festival and numerous other venues throughout
the country

Kirk also performs as a guest soloist and clinician/adjudicator at middle schools, high
schools and colleges throughout the country. He is a Schilke artist and plays their B5
trumpet and flugelhorn. Kirk uses Denis Wick precision mutes and mouthpieces and is a
Denis Wick performing artist. Products and sponsorship provided by DANSR, Inc. the
North American importer for Denis Wick. He also endorses AMT microphones and uses
the AMT P800W.

Kirk Garrison is an active performer, educator and composer in the Chicago area. A veteran of the Chicago jazz scene, Kirk attended Mankato State University in his home state of Minnesota from 1978-1982 before honing his skills in the United States Air Force Band. After leaving the Air Force in 1992, he completed his masters degree in Jazz Studies at DePaul University where he is now a member of the jazz faculty. He is also on faculty at Concordia University, Chicago.

Kirk has appeared with Clay Aiken, Louie Bellson, Michael Bolton, Kenny Burrell, Dave Brubeck, Nell Carter, Ron Carter, Pete Christlieb, Vinnie Colaiutta, Larry Combs, Joey DeFrancesco, Kurt Elling, Jon Faddis, Aretha Franklin, Steve and Eydie Gorme, Danny Gottlieb, Marvin Hamlisch, Herbie Hancock, Bob Hope, Rodney Jones, Pat LaBarbera, Russell Malone, Kevin Mahogany, Johnny Mathis, Brother Jack McDuff, Jim McNeeley, Bob Mintzer, Rita Moreno, Danilo Perez, Don Rickles, Dianne Schuur, Ed Shaughnessy, Bobby Shew, Bobby Short, Frank Sinatra, Jr., Michael W. Smith, Byron Stripling, Clark Terry, Frank Wess, Barry White, Joe Williams, Vanessa Williams, Nancy Wilson, Phil Wilson, Phil Woods, Stevie Wonder, The Four Freshman, The Temptations, and The Ravinia Orchestra.

Kirk is in high demand as a composer and arranger. He was recently commissioned to write arrangements for internationally renowned jazz saxophonist Phil Woods with big band and an arrangement of Nature Boy for orchestra and choir which premiered in 2010. He has written commissioned arrangements for DePaul University, Rob Parton's Jazz Tech Big Band, the Chicago String Ensemble, the Heritage Chorale of Oak Park Il, and the Millar Brass Ensemble at Northwestern University.

Howard Reich, jazz critic for the Chicago Tribune wrote, "The spectacular trumpet solo that Kirk Garrison offered ... reminded listeners why the Jazz Members Big Band stands among the best repertory units in the country."

Cadence Magazine's jazz critic Jack Bowers wrote "Kirk Garrison's marvelous trumpet work ... so moving it brought tears to my eyes."

His trumpet artistry was described as "cool work" by John Von Rhein, music critic of the Chicago Tribune.

John Killoch of Mainly Big Bands (UK) wrote in a review, "This guy nails the section with a big, accurate lead sound and when he flexes his chops ... the sound is again right down the middle, in tune, big and so high. Musical is a good way to put it. An object lesson to anyone who aspires to be a top lead trumpeter."

Kirk currently performs as a guest soloist and clinician/adjudicator at middle schools, high schools and colleges throughout the country. He uses Denis Wick precision mutes and mouthpieces and is a Denis Wick performing artist. Products and sponsorship provided by DANSR, Inc. the North American importer for Denis Wick. He also endorses AMT microphones and uses the AMT P800W.

Web Links : [schilkemusic.com/](http://www.schilkemusic.com/) | [dansr.com/deniswick/artists/artists](http://www.dansr.com/deniswick/artists/artists.php) | [appliedmicrophone.com](http://appliedmicrophone.com)


Kirk Garrison


Beth Gottlieb, percussion, is an internationally recognized performer, teacher, clinician, and soloist, whose experience covers the entire musical spectrum. Residing in Nashville, TN, Beth is a freelance percussionist in “Music City”. She has taught at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL, Rollins College in Winter Park, FL, and the Interlochen Arts Camp in Interlochen, MI. She is Principal Percussionist with the Walt Disney World Candlelight Orchestra and percussionist with many touring artists, shows, and recording projects. She has performed and/or recorded with the Disney Company, Chick Corea, Steven Curtis Chapman, Andy Williams, Henry Mancini, Peabo Byrson, Celine Dion, Sammy Davis Jr., Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme, Natalie Cole, Shirley Jones, Milton Berle, Gil Evans Orchestra, Eddy Arnold, Donny Osmond, Pat Boone, Petula Clark, Chuck Owen’s Jazz Surge, Carol Channing, Joe Beck, Jeff Berlin, Lennon Sisters, Mitzi Gaynor, Rita Moreno, Marvin Hamlisch, Tony Bennett, Sandi Patty, Roger Williams, Kansas, Henny Youngman, Bobby McFerrin, Victor Wooten, Muriel Anderson, Johnny Mathis, the Irish Tenors, Regis Philbin, and many more.

Having a long performance  history with the Disney Company (Future Corps, Future World Brass, World Dancers Show Band, movie and theme park soundtracks, conventions and more), Beth met Gary Sinise while performing with the EPCOT Candlelight Orchestra and has been a member of the Lt. Dan Band since 2004.

Beth plays all styles of percussion, including hand percussion, classical percussion, show percussion, jazz/rock, and rudimental snare drum. She was a member of Tom Float's award winning Spirit of Atlanta Drum and Bugle Corps. Beth and husband Danny, "The Gottlieb Duo," perform many concerts and clinics around the world including Germany, Latvia, England, Italy, The Netherlands, Spain, France, Austria, Switzerland, Czeck Republic, Belgium and Denmark. They also love performing for children with their educational program, "The Rhythms of Music and Life".  
Active in music education, Beth has held many offices in the Percussive Arts Society, MENC, MTNA, and the Florida Bandmasters organizations, and hosted the PASIC 98 convention in Orlando. Beth has also authored a highly acclaimed book, “Masterworks for Mallets” (Row-Loff Productions). She holds a Master of Music degree from the Eastman School of Music where she studied with John Beck, and a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of Alabama, where she studied with Larry Mathis. She is a clinician/endorser for Ludwig/Musser, Zildjian cymbals, Innovative Percussion, Grover Pro Percussion and the Remo Corporation. Beth is an avid runner, having been featured in Runner's World, Glamour, and Woman's Day magazines. She is married to Danny Gottlieb and has two sons who are percussionists, Brian and Scotty Radock.

Beth is extremely passionate about playing in the Lt. Dan Band.  Her family has a very strong deep-rooted background in the military.  Her grandfather was a Colonel under General MacArthur in WWII and father was in the CIC during the Korean War.  She states: “Playing for the troops is one of the most moving experiences a musician can have, and I am so proud to perform for all those in need. Gary is the most passionate, giving, caring, talented man I know and it is an honor to perform and work with him”.


Beth Gottlieb


Saxophonist/composer Mitch Paliga is originally from the small town of Libby Montana but has made the Chicago area his home since 1990. He attended Rocky Mountain College in Billings Montana (1980-81), received a bachelors of music degree from Eastern New Mexico University (1985) and a masters of music degree in jazz pedagogy from Northwestern University (1999). In 1993 he was awarded a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Study Grant to study with David Liebman and in 2001 received a City of Chicago Community Arts Assistance Program Grant. Mitch is an adjunct music professor at Lake Forest College in Lake Forest Illinois and a member of the jazz faculty at North Central College in Naperville Illinois.

Mitch has performed with Randy Brecker, Vinnie Colaiuta, Kimotion, the Nelson Riddle Orchestra, the Temptations, Marie Osmond, Danny Seraphine, Bob Newhart, and Victor Kraus and is honored to be a member of the Lt. Dan Band. He has also been active on the local Chicago music scene and is known for his unique and individual voice on the soprano saxophone. Lorelai Clarke of Jazzreview.com wrote "If you're not a fan of soprano sax playing, this album (Blithe Moments) may change some of your perceptions. The high level of musicianship, and Paliga's skill at composing, make the album worth listening to in any case". Jerome Wilson of Cadence Magazine also wrote "Paliga is an interesting composer but he also may be the next great voice on soprano saxophone". Mitch has also recorded with Chicago artists and ensembles Kimotion, Ryan Cohan, Jo Ann Daugherty, Damon Short, Hard Art Groop as well as Texas singer/song writer Mike Dawson and is also a member of the Chicago Jazz Composers Collective. In 2006 Mitch released his first jazz recording of his original compositions "Blithe Moments" under his own name. Released in 2008 was "Fall Night" on the Origin label.

Press Quotes:  
"Relatively few jazz musicians take up soprano sax compared to the rest of the reed family, but Mitch Paliga is one who has mastered his instrument." - Ken Dryden, All Music Guide, Billboard.com review

"Paliga's adventurous spirit as a soloist is evident throughout the session with firm displays of solid technique and patient playfulness." -John Barron, All About Jazz

"The melodies here are often like whispers. One must pay attention so as not to miss some of the beautiful subtleties being offered up here in abundance (case in point might be Track 2, “QP Doll”)." -Ronald Jackson, [Jazzreview.com](http://Jazzreview.com)

"Mitch has a beautiful sound on the soprano and some very compelling compositions that I enjoyed a lot. A stellar band as well." -David Liebman

Endorsements:  
Mitch endorses AMT Microphones.

Mitch is also a D'Addario Woodwind Artist.

Web Links : [mitchpaliga.com](http://mitchpaliga.com)


Mitch Paliga


Julie had her first taste of the stage at age five, singing with mother's band around the Chicagoland area. At age fifteen, after touring and recording professionally, she performed on Star Searchhosted by the late Ed McMahon. After high school, she attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in New York city. She then toured Europe in the musical HAIR and traveled the world as a singer/dancer with Royal Caribbean International. You can see or hear Julie on many national commercials and jingles, and hear her as a guest on many Chicago musician's albums. She also lends her voice to Chicago-based band Hey Jimmy, and plays guitar and sings her material solo in clubs, festivals, and at corporate events. Julie is thrilled to be a part of the Lt. Dan Band, and excited to bring her spirit and positivity to shows at home and abroad.

[facebook.com/julieanndutchak](https://facebook.com/julieanndutchak)


Julie Dutchak


Singer, violinist and multi-Instrumentalist Dan Myers hails from the north woods of Stevens Point, Wisconsin. He is a graduate of Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan with a degree in Jazz Studies and a Masters in Film Scoring from Columbia College Chicago. His former original band, Down The Line, toured the country with legendary acts such as Peter Frampton, America, Colin Hay (of Men At Work), Lifehouse, Ben Folds, Marshall Crenshaw, Pat Benatar, and The Gin Blossoms to name a few. He now tours with his indie-folk duo, Stolen Silver, which opens for the Lt. Dan Band on many shows and can be found on spotify, apple music, etc.

Dan composes songs and music for film, television and the stage. His voice and instruments can be heard in many commercials and jingles. His current day gig is teaching the next generation of rockstars and composers as Professor of Commercial Music at Tiffin University, Tiffin OH.

Web Links : [stolensilver.com](http://stolensilver.com) \- [thedanmyers.com](http://thedanmyers.com)


Dan Myers


Mari (pronounced "Marie") has been with the Band since 2004, although her performing career began as a child in Somerset, Kentucky, where she and her older sisters would give living room concerts for friends and family at her parents' house.

She took piano lessons from kindergarten through high school, then went on to study vocal pedagogy and choral arts, graduating with a Bachelor of Science from Western Michigan University and a Master of Music in Jazz Studies & Vocal Performance from Roosevelt University.

While living in Florida in the early 1990s, Mari Anne sang with jazz groups, funk bands, and Disney's Voices of Liberty. She also worked as a youth choir accompanist, church pianist, and voice teacher.

After moving to Chicago in 1998, she sang in jazz, pop, rock, and R&B groups, original contemporary and experimental genres, and as a recording artist with Hard Art Groop, Kelly Brand Trio, Scottinho, Band of Joes, and akalibrio.  From 2001-05 she taught Vocal Jazz Ensemble and Applied Voice at Columbia College Chicago, and accompanied the award-winning ensemble of actors and educators of Wavelength Inc.  Mari is a former Music Director at Bodhi Spiritual Center in Chicago.

She was awarded a residency in 2004 by The Kennedy Center's Betty Carter Jazz Ahead Program for Young Jazz Composers. That same year she was selected as a semifinalist in the Thelonious Monk Institute's International Jazz Vocals Competition.  As a jazz singer, Mari has performed with George Duke, Carl Allen, Steve Rodby, Kenny Werner, Bunky Green, Steve Million, Maureen McGovern, Cleo Laine, the lates Sir John Dankworth , Joe Williams and Mel Torme.

Mari moved to Lexington, Kentucky in 2011 and  is currently a practicing Licensed Massage Therapist.  Also licensed in personal coaching, she facilitates courses in self-growth and practical spirituality at Ahava Center for Spiritual Living.

Entering her first decade with the Band, she gratefully continues to enjoy honoring all who serve and have served. She is equally grateful to be a member of Lt. Dan Band, and most definitely appreciates any sleep she can get while on the road.

[www.voiceofmaj.com](http://www.voiceofmaj.com/)


Tour Schedule

Latest News

20th Anniversary of Gary Sinise's First Lt. Dan Band Concert at Great Lakes Naval Base

Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band - 4th of July Show In Highland Park

Gary Sinise Welcomes Our Vietnam Veterans Home

Invincible Spirit Festival 2023: Naval Medical Center San Diego

Merchandise

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Meet The Band

Gary Sinise

Jeff Vezain

Ernie Denov

Ben Lewis

Karl Montzka

Molly Callinan

Danny Gottlieb

Gina Gonzalez

Harry Watters

Kirk Garrison

Beth Gottlieb

Mitch Paliga

Julie Dutchak

Dan Myers

Mari Anne Jayme

The Crew

James Stuckmann

Tristan Beache

Kim Wheeler

Scott Steiner

20th Anniversary of Gary Sinise's First Lt. Dan Band Concert at Great Lakes Naval Base

Gary Sinise & the Lt. Dan Band - 4th of July Show In Highland Park

Gary Sinise Welcomes Our Vietnam Veterans Home

Invincible Spirit Festival 2023: Naval Medical Center San Diego

Dog Tags Logo T-Shirt

Patch Logo T-Shirt

Musicians

Gary Sinise

Jeff Vezain

Ernie Denov

Ben Lewis

Karl Montzka

Molly Callinan

Danny Gottlieb

Gina Gonzalez

Harry Watters

Kirk Garrison

Beth Gottlieb

Mitch Paliga

Julie Dutchak

Dan Myers

Mari Anne Jayme

The Crew

James Stuckmann

Tristan Beache

Kim Wheeler

Scott Steiner