May 30, 2024
7:00-8:30pm
TONY SAUNDERS
Bay Area Music – From Johnny Mathis to the Grateful Dead
Guest Speaker: MAX GAIL
The Many Faces of Max Gail: A Career Spanning Decades
Tony Saunders
Tony Saunders is a luminous figure in the world of music, celebrated for his exceptional talent as a two-time Emmy Award-winning bassist, composer, and producer. His musical versatility is unparalleled, seamlessly spanning genres from jazz, gospel, and R&B to pop, rock, and world music. The son of legendary Bay Area keyboardist Merl Saunders, Tony embarked on his musical journey early, securing his first Emmy at age 14 for his contribution to the PBS documentary Soul Is, and collaborating with his father and Jerry Garcia by age 17. His acclaim continued to grow with a second Emmy for his work on the TV show Digital Journey.
Educated at the prestigious Conservatory of Music in San Francisco, Saunders initially trained as a piano player before making a significant mark as a bassist, drawing inspiration from giants like James Jamerson and Stanley Clarke. His illustrious career boasts collaborations with music legends such as Eric Clapton, David Crosby, and Chaka Khan, as well as significant contributions as a producer, musical director, and composer, including for the stage musical Rock Justice.
Launching into a solo career, Saunders has solidified his reputation in contemporary jazz with acclaimed albums like Romancing the Bass and Uptown Jazz. The latter is a tribute to his enriching experiences in Harlem, NYC, encapsulating his memories of the vibrant sounds and rhythms that have significantly influenced his work. Despite his deep roots in the Bay Area, Saunders cherishes his time performing in Manhattan, notably opening for Grover Washington Jr. with Randy Crawford at Lincoln Center. Uptown Jazz celebrates the evolution of smooth jazz, deeply connected to the legacies of icons like George Duke and Cannonball Adderley.
Saunders’ approach to the bass is passionate and evocative, reminiscent of B.B. King’s iconic relationship with Lucille, prioritizing emotional depth over technical prowess. A regular performer at prestigious venues such as the Blue Note in Napa, Saunders’ warm, inviting style and unique flair have endeared him to fans nationwide. His music not only pays homage to the greats but also promises an unforgettable experience that leaves audiences deeply moved and grateful. Through his work with the Rainforest Band and his support for causes like The Jerry Garcia Foundation and Rainforest Action Network, Saunders demonstrates a profound commitment to music and meaningful social impact.
Guest Speaker: MAX GAIL
May 30, 2024
The Many Faces of Max Gail: A Career Spanning Decades
Max Gail
Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Novato Speaker Series as we welcome the multi-talented Max Gail, an acclaimed actor, director, and documentary filmmaker. Best known for his iconic role as Detective Stan “Wojo” Wojciehowicz on the classic sitcom “Barney Miller,” Max has left an indelible mark on television history. His notable work doesn’t stop there; he’s captivated audiences in feature films like “D.C. Cab,” as Harold, and on the Broadway stage in “The Babe.” Max’s diverse career spans guest appearances on numerous TV shows, including “NCIS” and “Mad Men,” and his remarkable portrayal of Brooklyn Dodgers manager Burt Shotton in the film “42.” Off-screen, Max runs Full Circle, a production company focused on meaningful documentaries. His dedication to his craft earned him two Daytime Emmy Awards for his role on “General Hospital.” Don’t miss the chance to hear from this extraordinary artist and storyteller.
Visit www.novatospeakerseries.com for more information, and to purchase tickets.
The Novato Speakers Series is held at the Bill & Adele Jonas Center, 1800 Ignacio Blvd, Building 19, Novato.
Sponsored by the Novato Rotary Clubs and the Novato Historical Guild
www.novatospeakerseries.com
Past Speakers
April 25, 2024
7:00-8:30pm
LAURIE REEMSYNDER and LAUREN VUONG
Journey of Hope: Southwest Asian Immigration Chronicles at Hamilton AFB (1980-84)
March 28, 2024
7:00-8:30pm
CHRIS WAUGH
Designing a Life: Unveiling 7 Insights from Within Health and Wellness Innovation
February 22, 2024
7:00-8:30pm
FELECIA GASTON
Unveiling Marin City’s Rich History
January 25, 2024
7:00-8:30pm
DR. MICHAEL PRITCHARD & MARK DALE
The Opioid Epidemic – The Silence Has Been Killing Us
December 21, 2023
7:00-8:30pm
HEIDI KUHN
Heidi Kuhn’s social justice story replaces land mines with grapevines
Opening Music by Don Forbes
October 26, 2023
7:00-8:30pm
CHRIS GARGANO, Host & Leadership Coach &
BUDDY BIANCALANA, World Series Hero
Opening Music by James M Harman
September 28, 2023
7:00-8:30pm
DR. MICHAEL BLODGETT, PH.D
Pathways to peace in the Middle East
Opening Music by Scott Van Wagner