Today we’d like to introduce you to Dave Cerelli. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Dave is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and arranger based in Toledo, Ohio. He began music lessons at the age of five years old. He received his undergraduate degree in instrumental jazz from the University of Toledo in 2017 with a focus on jazz bass; followed by a Master’s degree in instrumental jazz from the University of Toledo in 2019.
Dave has toured across the country performing with a variety of musicians and bands spanning many different genres of music. He has performed in major cities such as NYC, Philadelphia, Nashville, Chicago, and many more.
He has shared the stage with distinguished artists including Jon Hendricks, Vic Juris, Alex Harding, and Billy Childs. He has performed in direct support of artists such as Gwen Stefani, Foreigner, Styx, Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Dio), Marbin, and more. Dave has held residencies across the region with top-caliber musicians and continues to diversify as his music expands nationally.
In 2017, David received an endorsement from Moniker Guitars LLC. In 2019 he received endorsement from Reverend Guitars. David is also an avid music educator. He actively teaches multiple instruments, recording techniques, and sound engineering. He also lectured the History of Jazz classes for the University of Toledo and worked at the institution as an adjunct professor.
As an active musician, David regularly performs across the region with top-notch jazz ensembles, award-winning cover bands, driving rock combos, experimental progressive groups, musical pit orchestras, traditional jazz collectives, and house band jam sessions.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The music industry presents new and unique challenges every day.
The simple fact of doing what you love for a living means you’re never truly off the clock. This is a double-edged sword. It inspires you to grow and expand, but it can be a challenge to factor in time for relaxation with friends and family. As a musician grows, we find ourselves traveling more, performing for larger and more diverse audiences, and meeting new exciting people along the way.
Although I live in Toledo, I’m often traveling to work in amazing cities such as Nashville! I love the fact that I can bring music with me everywhere I go.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a freelance musician. My primary instrument is the bass (electric & upright), but I also play guitar and keys. I sometimes perform with my secondary instruments, but usually, they are tools for composition, arranging, and studio work.
I play anything from musical theater to collective improvisation and the diversity keeps me in a constant state of growth. Whether it’s a 4-hour gig downtown or a session with top-caliber musicians in Detroit, I always give every performance my all.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Do what you love, you won’t regret it. But don’t mistake passion for complacency. Put in the work every day and you will see your efforts rewarded in ways you couldn’t imagine.
Pricing:
- Music lessons (virtual or in-person): $45/hr
- Contact me for session work.
- Contact for performance pricing.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://davecerellimusic.com/home
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/davecerellimusic
- Facebook: http://facebook.com/davecerellimusic
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/davecerelli
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8TSwx2oCoyoa61KpkYHoLw
