Saxophonist, Shelley Carrol hails from family of gospel singers and musicians in Houston, Texas. It was there that the music bug bit him at an early age and landed him in the famed Boys Choir of Houston. After picking up the saxophone, he was able to study with the legendary Texas Tenor greats Arnett Cobb and Don Wilkerson. At the time he didn't know how revered these gentlemen were around the globe. They simply lived in his neighborhood. Shelley attended the city's High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and was a standout in the city's Summer Jazz Workshop Program. This is where he developed a true flair for the stage. While attending the University of North Texas, Shelley earned a spot in the Grammy Nominated One O'clock Lab Band. There he recorded two critically acclaimed CD's in 1990 - 91. During the same period, Mr. Carrol was invited to join the Duke Ellington Orchestra by trumpeter Barry Lee Hall. This would prove to be an enormous musical opportunity with worldwide exposure. Since joining the band, he has toured the U.S. and over 30 foreign countries. He has also recorded and or performed with Maureen McGovern, Tony Bennet, Nancy Wilson, Joe Williams and a host of others. Shelley evolved to record as a leader in 1997. He was able to feature members of the Duke Ellington Orchestra on his debut CD for Leaning House Records. His second CD, A Distant Star was released in the fall of 2001. The new disc features pianist Bernard Wright, bassist Curtis Lundy, and drummer Sebastian Whittaker. This sophomore effort is sure to get the critics and fans excited. It has been featured on several area shows including FOX 4 Good Day Dallas and WFAA Channel 8 Metro. A Distant Star continues to get radio airplay in Dallas, Houston, Memphis, San Antonio as well as several prominent internet stations. Dallas Morning News critic Thor Christensen writes, "...one of Texas' finest Tenor Players." Shelley can also be heard on recordings from Curtis Lundy, Sebastian Whittaker, Don Sikler, Sandra Kaye, and many others. Shelley also feels a need to share his musical gift with today's youth. He currently teaches part-time at Booker T. Washington H. S. (Dallas Arts Magnet) and gives clinics whenever he can. He even has plans to develop a Summer Jazz Workshop in Dallas. He says"...music has to be shared to truly be enjoyed." Anyone who listens to his Tenor saxophone would have to agree. Shelley Carrol is available for performances, clinics and master classes. Call or visit our website for more information.