Wilfredo Rodriguez III, Artistic Director/Bassist/DJ, is an accomplished performer and music educator with a diverse background in various genres/styles of music, from classical and jazz to pop and hip-hop. Currently serving as the Instructor of Strings Methods and Jazz Pedagogy at The College of New Jersey, he brings a wealth of experience to his performances.
He has a Master of Music in Double Bass Performance from Temple University and a Bachelor of Music Education/Jazz Studies from Rowan University. He is pursuing a Ph.D. in the Philosophy of Music Education at Temple University.
His leadership role within this ensemble further demonstrates his dedication to the art of music. His performance skill set, passion for music, and unwavering commitment to the success of The First Call make him a pleasant person to work alongside.
Renee Parks, Singer, is a Direct Support Professional(DSP) teaching Adults with disabilities how to live independently. At night she is a Director/Dance Instructor for PCPAT where she’s been dancing since the age of 4. She has two adorable kitties and an amazing boyfriend who is currently serving in the Army. Other than that you can find her snuggled up in bed playing Animal Crossing.
Andrew Gavin, Singer, has worked with multiple ensembles across the tristate area. He is a graduate of Rowan University's music department. When he is not doing music he can be found watching movies, riding bikes, or playing or hosting trivia. He is honored to be a founding member of the First Call Band. More about Andrew and his music can be found on www.ajbgmusic.com
Juan Nicdao, Drummer, is also known as JC. He is a percussionist based in the South Jersey area. He has played and taught in the area for nearly 10 years and attended Rowan University from 2014-2019! JC currently performs for various theater programs and arranges for various marching band groups. Outside of music, JC works at the Hospital of UPenn in Finance and is very excited to be working with The First Call Band!
Paul Feldman, Trumpeter, started his musical journey in the North Penn School District, where he earned accolades like the Rick Kerber Award for Best Trumpet Solo at the 2008 Cavalcade of Jazz Championships. A graduate of West Chester University with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and Performance (Jazz Studies Minor) and Magna Cum Laude honors, Paul studied under esteemed trumpet instructors including Dr. Jean Christophe Dobrzelewski, Rob Skoniczin, and John Swana.
During his collegiate career, Paul performed with legends such as Bobby Shew, Guillermo Klein, and Randy Brecker as a member of the Criterions Jazz Ensemble. He also achieved recognition as a semi-finalist in the National Trumpet Competition, recipient of the Michael Falcone Jazz Scholarship, and prizewinner in the West Chester University Trumpet Competition.
Post-graduation, Paul has balanced teaching and performing, with roles in Baltimore County Public Schools and active participation in ensembles like the Academy Orchestra, Verdi Band of Norristown, and West Chester University alumni groups. He is also a music adjudicator with US Bands, evaluating high school performances across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and West Virginia.
Leah Rodriguez (PharmD, BCIDP), Keyboard, is an infectious diseases pharmacy expert with an extensive musical background in piano and flute. Classically trained, Leah has shared her musical knowledge and background by providing music students with accompaniment, performing in musical theatre and performing her own solos. She enjoys playing music with others and is always willing to hear feedback on how to alter her sound to the preference of the audience. Aside from her full-time job and performance experience, Leah enjoys spending time with her newborn son, husband and lazy dog. You can always find her searching for the next dream vacation spot.
Brandon Perez, Singer, hailing from Norristown, PA, graduated from Kutztown University with a degree in Commercial Music studies and a minor in Spanish. Outside of the band he is still a performer, singing classically with The Bach Choir of Bethlehem, Violinist with the Lehigh Valley Chamber Orchestra and recording music in and around southeastern PA in both English and Spanish. Brandon is also a Music Teacher at a Private Alternative school called Buxmont Academy, a school with programs to help troubled and at-risk youth in Eastern Pennsylvania. His range of taste goes from the classical world to the new and popular music of today.
Jason Blythe, Saxophonist, is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He began playing as a student in Delaware and went on to pursue degrees in music. At the University of Delaware, Jason studied with Todd Groves and Tom Palmer. Later, he attended Temple University where he studied with jazz icons Terell Stafford and Tim Warfield and earned his master’s degree.
Jason has played alongside his mentors in a variety of settings, as well as alongside Dick Oatts, Bruce Barth, Mike Boone, and Justin Faulkner among others in venues like Rose Hall and Dizzy’s Club in New York, as well as having toured internationally. Jason currently plays with his own band in the Philadelphia area and makes appearance with other groups in the area. He is also an active composer and educator.
