In the Rembrandt Spotlight for December...

Anthony Bernasconi

Anthony Bernasconi is the newest member of the band, recruited in June of 2010 for his uncanny ability to mimic a variety of different artists, and for his unbridled stage charisma.  Having Anthony onstage is a guarantee that the party is in good hands as he is definitely "hands-on" when it comes to performing.  Anthony has been known to come down off the stage, to dance with and sing to guests of all ages.  Anthony has never met an audience he didn't love.  

For over a decade, Anthony has been a prominent figure in the DJ, Karaoke and Casino Entertainment world of the Inland Empire.  Now, fortunately for us, he lends his energy and expertise to the Ultimate Party Band: Rembrandt!

Check out Anthony's Photo Montage and you'll see...

He stands out in a crowd, but is never alone.

In the Rembrandt Spotlight for November....

Scott Hughes

Scotty Hughes has been the Rembrandt Trombonist since 1993.  He is a master of his instrument and has played with the likes of Bobby Caldwell, Aretha Franklin, and Bo Bice, just to name a few.  With an incredible tone and diverse range, Scotty can warm up the room with a ballad solo or light it on fire with a hot salsa lick.  But musicianship is just the tip of the iceberg with Scotty.  He is also one of the most affable and life-affirming people you will ever meet.  An avid golfer and culinary connoisseur, Scotty is a lover of all the finer things in life.  His taste in everything from music to wine, from pancake houses to steakhouses is impeccable.  If you ever want to know the best golf course in Arizona,  the tastiest Clam Chowder in Monterey or the most romantic Bed and Breakfast in Santa Barbara, Scotty's your man!   Known to the band as "The Admiral", Scotty is also an "admirable" husband and father to his true pride and joy, Dougie, age 4.  So here's to the admirable "Admiral", and to many more years at the helm.

Scotty is also an excellent vocalist. 
Listen to him "Tell It Like It Is" in this Video Montage.

In the Rembrandt Spotlight for October...

Megan Bennett

Megan Bennett (Megan Bushell until exactly one year ago) completes the Rembrandt trio of lovely ladies with class, elegance and amazing talent.  Megan has an incredibly versatile voice that can be both soothing and powerful.  From Country Rock to Light Opera, from Barbra to Benatar, this chick rocks!  An honest to goodness Beauty Queen, Megan was Miss Kansas of 2004 and came very close to being Miss America.  Her beauty and talent are surpassed only by her sweetness as she is truly a country girl at heart.   Megan's brain is pretty awesome too, as she graduated Magna Cum Laude from Wichita State University and earned a Master's Degree in Marketing at Malibu's prestigious Pepperdine University.  So let's hear it for our Country Girl turned California Girl, the many multitudes of Megan!

In the Rembrandt Spotlight for September.......

Joerg Stoeffel

Joerg Stoeffel is in his fifth year as the Rembrandt Guitarist and no one has ever been more Rock Solid.  A graduate of the renowned Berklee School of Music in Boston, Joerg has been a prominent  Session Musician in LA since 1999 and now owns and operates his own state-of-the-art recording studio where he has Produced, Engineered and Programmed alongside many A list recording artists including Dru Hill and Limp Biskit. 

In the Summer, you can find Joerg up in the San Bernardino Mountains at Running Springs Directing "Rock Star Camp" where he helps 10-16 year olds  realize their Rock N Roll dreams.  Originally from Bavaria, in Europe, Joerg keeps fit as a Cycling enthusiast and has competed in and won many major marathons.   Two weeks ago,  Joerg entered a different kind of Marathon.  He took the plunge by marrying his long-time sweetheart Vanessa.  Congratulations you two!

Check out Rembrandt's Genuine Rock Star:

      Ladies & Gentlemen........

 Mr. Joerg Stoeffel on Guitar! 

In the Rembrandt Spotlight for August...

Jerry Moore

Racking up his 22nd season with Rembrandt, Jerry is the senior member of the band.   An extremely accomplished musician, Jerry has performed at the Grammys, the CMAs, and with big name artists such as Mick Jagger and Rikki Lee Jones, and that's just this year!  He is an incredible sax soloist and is equally accomplished on tenor, alto, soprano and barry saxes.  A graduate of Cal State Northridge, Jerry is now also a devoted family man with a lovely wife, a beautiful daughter and a managerial position in the Symantec Corporation.   Jerry is a solid pillar in the foundation of Rembrandt,  a virtuoso musician,  and the musical inspiration for the rest of the Rembrandt players.   Here's to twenty-two more years of great sax!

July 29-30, 2011 Wood/Pohlad WeddingRoche Harbor Resort-San Juan Island, Washington

Roche Harbor is on San Juan Island, off the coast of Seattle, WA, just south of Vancouver Canada.  One part Cape Cod and two parts Blue Ridge Mountains, this remote island gem was the site of Rembrandt's most recent conquest, the Wood, Pohlad Wedding.  From the breathtaking Pohlad Estate on the West side of Friday Harbor to the quaint 18th Century Chapel at the Roche Harbor Resort, this Rembrandt road trip had a little of everything.  The Jazz Quintet set the tone on Friday night with Smooth Jazz for the exclusive Groom's Dinner.  On Saturday, Megan gave the crowd shivers with her rendition of Ave Maria at the Ceremony.  Then, the horn section "Pied Pipered" the guests down the road to the reception with a Dixieland sound.   The crowning touch was in the radiant tent, aglow with the fire and energy of the Rembrandt twelve, playing just about everything they know for six non-stop hours.  The guests' enthusiasm reigned supreme as did the curiosity of the island "locals" who came out of hiding in droves to witness the rockin' reception.  Many have since "friended" the band on Facebook. You can too!  www.facebook.com/rembrandtband   

In the Rembrandt Spotlight for July...

Nic Jackson

Nic Jackson is the soulful center of the Rembrandt front line.  Providing stellar lead vocals on everything from Michael to Stevie, from Luther to Usher, Nic provides the cool and can bring the heat.  A former jock from the Bay area, Nic has a strength of character and an integrity that is truly rare these days.  His numerous accomplishments include TV commercials, appearances in the Montreaux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, sharing the stage with Stevie Wonder and he's only 26!  Hailing from a musical family that includes his aunt, Janice Marie Johnson of the Grammy Award Winning Group "A Taste of Honey", Nic is a prolific songwriter and proficient pianist.  You can see him weekly performing his original songs with his own group at night clubs and hot spots throughout LA.  On weekends, we are lucky to call him our "Man in the Middle", adding his unique brand of passion, energy and charisma to the Rembrandt lineup.  Check Nic out in the video clip below.

June 10, 2011 Chicca/Zaninovich WeddingStockdale Country Club-Bakersfield

Briana + Dominic | Wedding Highlights from HDM on Vimeo.



Who would have thought that Bakersfield would be the place for a wedding of such outstanding class, quality and spirit.  From the moment we arrived at the Stockdale Country Club, we knew we were in the midst of something special.  Everyone we encountered from the venue staff, to the coordinator, to the videographer was just top-notch professional and yet down to earth and ultra friendly.   Hats off to Betty Chicca (the MOB) for finding all the best vendors in Southern California.  As the above video shows, everything about this event just clicked.  Congratulations Briana & Dominic!  You both have wonderful, special families.  We are proud to have participated in your "Night to Remember!"
Betty:  I'm ready to start referring you out as a Wedding Coordinator!



May 29, 2011 Katzir/Orgel WeddingFigueroa Mountain Farmhouse-Los Olivos

                                                              
                                                                            Travel on Hwy 54 about 30 miles east from Santa Barbara. Take a backwoods mountain road for about ten more miles into the winding hills, past Neverland Ranch, and you will find yourself at Heaven's Door.  No, it's not the Ponderosa, or Butte, Montana, but the good ol' Mountain Figueroa Farmhouse in Los Olivos.    

Azure skies and clean, crisp air are abundant and traces of civilization are not to be found.  An unlikely, yet magical spot for a wedding,  Rembrandt braved the wind and the chilly weather to deliver an amazing performance in a rustic setting.  On a night where the guests really needed to keep moving for warmth, Rembrandt gave them a work out, with one R&B classic after another, peppered with just enough Horas to keep the purists huddled and happy.  The Katzir and Orgel families had many guests fly in from the east coast.  It was hard convincing them that this was actually California.

Take a look at Minh's photo montage, set to the music of Rembrandt, as always, taken from the actual performance.  And look for Minh.  He's the one with his head in the clouds.    

In the Rembrandt Spotlight for June....

Albe Bonacci

Albe Bonacci has been the Rembrandt drummer for two years.  In fact, this Saturday, June 4, marks his two year anniversary.  Albe is a perfectionist in every sense of the word.  Dependable and rock solid, with meticulous attention to detail;  exactly what you want from the rhythmic center of your band.  Albe has performed live and in studio with top name artists like Diane Warren,  Michael James and Pop/Christian artist Michelle Tumes, and is a spokesman and clinician for many quality drum manufacturers such as Paiste and DW.   Now a dedicated family man, he spends his weekends with us, laying down a vicious groove and being a great friend and colleague. 

Hats off to our quiet, smiling friend in the black beret! 



May 7, 2011 Spencer/Byers WeddingLangham Hotel-Pasadena

 

The Historic Langham Hotel in Pasadena was the site of Rembrandt's latest conquest.  This time it was the for Spencer/Byers Wedding in the opulent Viennese Ballroom. 

An luxurious, yet intimate setting for a 12 pc. band.  But this couple really put a priority on the music.  It's great when you can combine exquisite taste with a crowd and a band that really knows how to party!

April 30, 2011 Vance/Lavin WeddingBeverly Hills Hotel

Ah...Beverly Hills,

Swimming Pools...Movie Stars. 

And that wonderful Pink Palace called "The Beverly Hills Hotel".  This gorgeous piece of Southern California history was the site Rembrandt's second wedding for the Vance family last Saturday.

In the historic Rodeo Room, the 250+ guests were treated to Champagne, a four course banquet and a heapin' helpin' of hospitality led by the Rembrandt 12 and their extensive repertoire of party classics.   An affair that was scheduled to end at 11pm, lingered on and on due to the sheer enthusiasm of the guests (and the generosity of their gracious host.)  Congratulations to the Vance and Lavin families and thank you for a wonderful evening in the most prestigious of settings!



A Magical Evening with Rembrandt!



In the Rembrandt Spotlight for May....

Vanessa Bryan

Vanessa is truly the spirit and energy behind Rembrandt.  Her stamina and enthusiasm for creating fun for our guests is surpassed only by her sheer joy in doing so.  An amazing and versatile vocalist, Vanessa can go from Operatic Diva, to Pop Icon, to Torch Singer, to 80s "Rocker Chick", without missing a beat.  If she's not on stage you can usually find her in the middle of the dance floor surrounded by a scrum of rabid partiers, joining her in a chorus of "Don't Stop Believin'", "Poker Face" or "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun".

Somewhat of a Pop Culture phenomenon herself, Vanessa can be found on Ford Commercials singing her "jam" in her new Focus, or as a contestant on "Don't Forget the Lyrics".  She is a natural for TV and the stage as she simply radiates a love of life, people and music that is both alluring and infectious.

Originally from Alaska, Vanessa is anything but cold.  In fact, she is one of the warmest people you'll ever meet, always quick with a hug, a caring smile and a kind word.  Where Vanessa goes, good times are always sure to follow.

   So "Raise Your Glass" to our sweet Vanessa, the one with the big voice and the even bigger heart.

April 16, 2011 Katz/Milkovich WeddingSherwood Country Club-Westlake Village

Rembrandt performed at one of the most opulent and picturesque venues in Southern California, the Sherwood Country Club in beautiful Westlake Village.  Doug performed on the keyboard at both the Ceremony and the Cocktail Hour.  Afterward, Rembrandt entertained everyone with music from the 80s, 90s and all the hot dance hits of the modern era.  The members of the Katz and Milkovich families really know how to party!  Their spontaneous line dance to Sir Mix-a-Lot's "Jump On It" was worthy of a YouTube Flash-Mob Moment.   

April 2, 2011 Kaiser-Permanente Physician's Dinner-Dance Four Seasons Hotel-Westlake Village

For the 11th straight year Rembrandt performed for the Doctors of Kaiser-Permanente at their Annual Physician's Dinner Dance.  The event was held in the Grand Ballroom of the beautiful Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village.  The Doctors boogied to Old School Motown, Funk, and Soul as well as the Hot Hits of the day.  Rembrandt was more than happy to showcase all or their new material.

 

Each month we feature one of our members in a special post called "In the Rembrandt Spotlight", in hopes that everyone can get a glimpse into the special people behind the spirit of Rembrandt.

In the Rembrandt Spotlight for April....

Kyle Newmaster

Kyle Newmaster has been the Rembandt Trumpet Player for nearly seven years.  Besides being one of the premiere brass musicians in Southern California, Kyle is also a successful composer and arranger and has written scores for many top-selling video games and critically acclaimed motion pictures.  Originally from Minneapolis MN, Kyle has found success here in the L.A. Music Scene and has performed and collaborated with several A-list Jazz Artists.  And, fortunately for us, on weekends you can find him on stage with Rembrandt, soloing on Trumpet and Flugelhorn and providing the punch for our all-star horn section. We are very honored and proud to have Kyle on the Rembrandt team.

Hear the sounds of Kyle Newmaster in this video montage:

Kyle Newmaster

March 26, 2011 The Valley Hunt Club in PasadenaCaddyshack-80s Party

The Valley Hunt Club in Pasadena was transformed into the Bushwood Country Club for a nostalgic Cadyshack-themed 80s dance party.  Rembrandt was up to the task with four hours of nonstop 80s classics. Is that really Rembrandt or a trio of foursomes coming in from the 18th hole?  The dress code was Golf Club Casual and the evening was simply a rave.  Don't miss Nic and Vanessa's duet on Endless Love, which was so passion-filled it inspired one guest to ask "Are you two really in love?"   Answer:  yes they are.......with music.

March 12, 2011 The Country School Fund RaiserThe Castaway-Burbank

Phillip Palmer

James Marsden

Last Saturday, Rembrandt performed for the Celebrity studded Country School Fund Raiser.  The Starlight Ballroom at the renowned Castaway Restaurant in Burbank was transformed into Old Hollywood with decor worthy of an Oscar Party.  ABC News anchor Phillip Palmer emceed the event and actor James Marsden (Enchanted, Hairspray, Hop) crooned Sinatra tunes with the band.  A great deal of money was raised for the distinguished Studio City elementary school, as Philip Palmer was superb as the auctioneer.  Afterward, the band was able to kick it up a notch and filled the dance floor with party music from all eras.  Check out the audio/video montage that ends with James Marsden's guest performance.  

In the Rembrandt Spotlight for March....

Larry Splichal

Larry has been the bass player in Rembrandt for 19 years (This month actually marks his 19th Anniversary.)  Affectionately known to his bandmates as "Lars", Larry is the very embodiment of the Rembrandt persona.  Always a charismatic presence on stage, Larry's witty repartee and infectiously positive attitude has made him a beloved figure with Rembrandt members and audiences alike.  Larry is an accomplished musician and can also sing lead and back up.  Originally from Wisconsin, Larry is a huge Green Bay Packers fan.  When he's not on stage laying down the harmonic foundation with Rembrandt, he enjoys jazz, antiques, his cats and traveling around the globe with his lady companion, Toni.

Larry also has an amazing voice.  Check out his lead vocal in this video.

February 20, 2011 Eastman/Rofe WeddingCalamigos Equestrian Center-Burbank

Rembrandt played for another great wedding on Sunday, February 20 at the Calamigos Equestrian Center.  It was the Wedding of Mike Rofe and Suzanne Eastman, two very cool people and long time Rembrandt fans.  At one point it became all about the ladies as Vanessa, Dasha and Megan did their thing on the dance floor.  The horns were on fire (as usual) as the band went past midnight.  Thanks again to the Eastman and Rofe families!

February 19, 2011 Young/Brown WeddingPasadena Convention Center

Rembrandt played for 300+ in the Grand Ballroom of the spacious Pasadena Convention Center.  The crowd was lively as encores and overtime prevailed.  Check out our own Mr. Nic Jackson on "Crazy".  A big congratulations to the Young and Brown Families.  This is our fourth wedding from this group and they're always so appreciative and just a blast to play for!

February 12, 2011 Santa Margarita Catholic High Valentasia Westin South Coast Plaza Hotel

For the 9th time in 12 years, Rembrandt performed for the S.M.C.H. Fund Raising Event.  Always a lively group to play for and this year was no exception. Once again thousands of dollars were raised in support of the prestigious school and their deserving students.  We are very honored to be part of that tradition.

In the Rembrandt Spotlight

Each month I'd like to feature one of our members in a special post called "In the Rembrandt Spotlight", in hopes that everyone can get a glimpse into the special people behind the spirit of Rembrandt.

In the Rembrandt Spotlight for February...

Dasha Chadwick

Dasha is the heart and soul of the Rembrandt front line evoking the spirit of Aretha, Chaka, Tina, Beyonce, Rihanna and all the one-named soul divas of the past and present.  She is the "Mistress of Attitude" and the "Queen of Style" and she is always a favorite among our audiences.  But aside from her on-stage energy and charisma, Dasha is a smart, caring, responsible and generous human being.  She hails from Oakland, CA, and has a degree in Ethnomusicology from UCLA.

And today is her Birthday....
So Happy Birthday Dasha! 
You're Awesome!

Rembrandt 31st Annual Year-End Celebration Saturday, January 22, 2011

The love was flowing Saturday as Rembrandt had it's traditional Year-End Party at the Waitman Home.  Old friends had some laughs and good times as we reflected on a great year full of milestone birthdays, weddings and special anniversaries, not just for our clients, but within the Rembrandt Family as well.   We spend the whole year celebrating the special moments of others, it was great to be able to to celebrate some of our own.  Another great year in the books.  Another greater year ahead.

New Year's Eve Gala-Balboa Bay Club: December 31, 2010



Happy New Year!

 


Happy Anniversary,  Megan!

  For the fifth time in six years, Rembrandt performed the New Year's Eve Gala at the Balboa Bay Club in Newport Beach. The dance floor rocked all night to everything from Sinatra to the Black Eyed Peas. Megan celebrated her one year Anniversary with the band. The Balboa Bay Club remains one of the classiest venues in Orange County and their NYE event is by far the best bargain in town. Rembrandt is looking forward to another great BBC event on NYE 2011.

December 11, 2010 Provide Commerce-Corporate Event Fluxx Night Club-San Diego

Rembrandt had a blast on the high-tech, multi level stage at Fluxx in San Diego.  Things were a bit treacherous at times with Megan, Dasha and Vanessa balancing on a 6x4 platform high above the dance floor IN HIGH HEELS!!!  That didn't stop them from dazzling the 500+ audience who partied until 2am.  The Nightlife in Downtown San Diego on a Saturday Night is INSANE!!