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Meet the Band!!
Westbury Jazz Collective is a professional jazz ensemble founded in 2015 under the leadership of Michael Carpenter, a retired music educator and U.S. military veteran. While we began as a community-based band, we have grown into a polished, high-performing collective made up of seasoned musicians, educators, and artists who are passionate about preserving and pushing the boundaries of music.
We are dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage of music—from timeless standards to modern compositions—captivating audiences with dynamic performances, tight arrangements, and infectious energy. Our members come from diverse musical backgrounds and bring a wide range of experience and expertise to every performance.
Though we no longer operate as a traditional community band, we remain deeply connected to our roots. We give back through educational outreach, benefit performances, and collaborations with local schools and organizations, keeping the spirit of live music alive and thriving in Westbury and beyond.
Who we are
Our ensemble is a diverse collection of musicians—veterans, educators, seasoned pros—united by a love for music and a dedication to excellence. Each member of the band brings a unique style and sound to the group. We volunteer our time every week to give back to the community through music. We come from all walks of life, different ages, groups and backgrounds. One thing is for sure… We are bonded with our passionate and love of MUSIC!
Michael Carpenter, Conductor
Michael Carpenter, Conductor
Meet Michael Carpenter, a distinguished music conductor whose career spans military service and education. With the alto saxophone as his primary instrument since age 12, Michael has enjoyed a multifaceted musical journey. After retiring from the Westbury School District, Michael followed his passion for community service by founding the Yes We Can Community Band in 2015, which later evolved into The Westbury Jazz Collective. Additionally, he spearheaded the formation of the Majestic Winds quartet, further enhancing the local music scene. Michael attributes his success to gratitude, acknowledging the support of God, his wife Kaye, and all involved in these musical endeavors.
Dr. Pless M. Dickerson, Alto Saxophone
Dr. Pless M. Dickerson, Alto Saxophone
Meet Dr. Pless M Dickerson, a retired educator and accomplished musician known for his mastery of the clarinet, which he embraced at the age of 12. While his primary instrument is the clarinet, Dr. Dickerson has also skillfully honed his talent on the alto saxophone for the past 5 years.
Emma Desulme, Tenor Saxophone
Emma Desulme, Tenor Saxophone
On 1st Tenor Saxophone, meet Emma Desulme , the musical virtuoso who has been with the band since its inception, skillfully orchestrating her passion across nine instruments with the clarinet and Tenor Saxophone at the forefront. A self-taught maestro, Emma's creative repertoire extends beyond music, as she weaves captivating stories and poetic verses as an author and poet. Adding another layer to her dynamic composition, Emma serves as a CPR instructor, harmonizing the art of saving lives with her enduring dedication to the band's journey from its very beginning.
Paula Ebron, Baritone Saxophone
Paula Ebron, Baritone Saxophone
Introducing Paula Ebron, a versatile musician whose mastery extends across the baritone saxophone, bass clarinet, and clarinet. A proud alumna of Westbury High School (class of '79) and Buffalo State College, Paula furthered her musical journey at Nassau Community College. Her deep connection to music was ignited by her twin brother, Paul Ebron, who sadly passed away in 2019. Introduced to the band by her brother over four decades ago, Paula has since made music an integral part of her life, honoring his legacy through her passion for the saxophone and clarinet family.
Derek Buchanan, Bass Guitar
Derek Buchanan, Bass Guitar
On Bass meet Derek Buchanan. He is from Queens, New York. At age 63, he has been a learned musician since the of 11. His musical styles are Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Soul, Funk and Gospel. He primarily plays 4 5 and 6 string electric bass as well as the acoustic double bass. Mr. Buchanan also plays the guitar and uses the piano as a composing tool. He decided on bass guitar as a result of hearing the instrument in a live band many years ago. Mr. Buchanan still formally studies both upright and electric bass with master musicians/bassist Charley Sabatino and has passed been an active member of Russ Nolan’s JazzLab New York, Michael Fleming and Charles Persia at the jazz mobile and perform with the P-Funk Allstars, Rhonda Denet and . the Bad Cats as well as recording sessions with The Called and Chosen, The RCA Singers and his own D. Scott. Buchanan Project. Derek has been a member of the Yes We Can Community band since April 2022, and enjoys the camaraderie and musical fellowship within the group.
Nicole Lawerence, Vocalist, Alto Sax
Nicole Lawerence, Vocalist, Alto Sax
Nicole Lawrence is a powerhouse performer with over 40 years of experience in R&B, jazz, and gospel music. A professionally trained vocalist and accomplished alto saxophonist, Nicole began her journey as a DJ and rapper before finding her voice in R&B at age 11. She’s performed with local bands, co-founded the duet Dual Sensation, and played for dignitaries like former NYC Mayor David Dinkins. Nicole has recorded original music, studied jazz at Tritone Jazz Camp, and brought her talents to churches, care facilities, and community stages across New York. Whether on vocals or sax, Nicole brings soul, skill, and spirit to every performance.
Joseph Jolly, Trumpet
Joseph Jolly, Trumpet
Meet Joseph Jolly, a versatile musician skilled in both trumpet and flugelhorn, who recently joined the Westbury Jazz Collective. Joseph's musical journey began with piano lessons in grade school, followed by exploration of the baritone horn and trombone before settling on trumpet in high school. He honed his craft at Westbury High School and furthered his education at Virginia State University, where he studied music and gained experience in arranging for college marching bands. During his time in Virginia, Joseph collaborated with local funk and soul groups and participated in recording sessions. Joining the Westbury Jazz Collective under the guidance of Mike Carpenter is a dream come true for Joseph, and he eagerly anticipates a bright future with the group.
Rick King, Trombone
Rick King, Trombone
On 1st Trombone, meet Rick King. He is a retired lab tech at Good Samaritan Hospital. He is also a retired educator in the Brentwood School District. Music has been a major part of his life from Junior High school. He presently plays and performs with the Boroughwide Band, Coast Guard Band and various other bands. Always ready to play.
Jeannine Lewis-Glasgow, Flutist
On Flute, meet Jeannine Lewis-Glasgow. She is a music lover. She started playing the flute in high school 46 years ago. Jeannine first heard Michael Carpenter, music conductor and band members at Westbury Devine Church of God Christmas concert December 2022. She asked if she can join the band. Mike gladly said yes, and she joined the band in March 2023. With practice and dedication, Jeannine the music lover is now reading and playing the flute again. She feels and sounds more confident. If she can do it anyone can. We welcome you to join us.
Noel McClean, Alto Saxophone
Noel McClean, Alto Saxophone
On 2nd Alto Saxophone meet Noel McClean. He think the saxophone is the instrument that comes closest to imitating the human voice. Upon hearing his grandson play this instrument, he decided that this is an instrument that he must learn. Noel have been playing periodically for approximately seven years. He joined the band in 2018, and now plays alongside his other grandson in this band.
Darryl Kendrick, Alto Saxophone
Darryl Kendrick, Alto Saxophone
Meet Darryl Kendrick is a passionate musician whose love for music began early when he picked up the alto saxophone in fourth grade. Over the years, he expanded his skills to master the tenor, soprano, and bari saxophones, showcasing his versatility. During his school years, he performed in the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA), and his passion for music only grew after graduation. Together with his wife, Joyce, he co-founded the band Sugar and Spice, dedicated to performing Motown and R&B hits since 2005. For Darryl, music is not just a craft but a means to give back to his community, and he finds immense fulfillment in performing and sharing his art. Now, as a proud member of the Westbury Jazz Collective, Darryl is excited to continue expanding his musical knowledge, driven by his commitment to lifelong learning and growth.
Wayne Weiner,Trumpet
Wayne Weiner,Trumpet
Meet Wayne Weiner is a dedicated trumpet player with a unique musical journey that almost didn’t happen. In grade school, he started with the piano and trumpet but set both aside by seventh grade, wanting to avoid the “band geek” label. Life brought him back to music around age 40 when his daughter began learning the flute, inspiring him to pick up the trumpet once more. Since then, Wayne has immersed himself in music, adding vocal training to his repertoire and experimenting with drums and keyboard. He’s now an enthusiastic member of multiple bands—primarily big bands, jazz, and rock groups—and proudly embraces his “band geek” status, committed to playing for as long as he can.
Cyre Holder, Trombone
Cyre Holder, Trombone
Meet Cyre Holder on trombone. With 16 years of experience playing the trombone, Cyre appreciates its simplicity yet complexity. In August 2022, she became a member of the Westbury Jazz Collective, believing in its potential to become a successful professional ensemble through dedication and commitment.
Frank Barbuzza, Percussion
Frank Barbuzza, Percussion
Frank is an accomplished drummer and percussionist with a rich performance history across a diverse range of musical ensembles on Long Island. He has been the set drummer for several notable big bands, including The Ralph Herz 17-piece Band (since 2023), The Westbury Jazz Collective, a 13-piece ensemble (since 2025), and The Buddah Big Swing Band. His dynamic style and steady rhythm have made him a sought-after musician in the big band jazz scene. In addition to his work with jazz ensembles, Frank has been a long-time set drummer for The Freeport Community Band, a 30-piece group with which he has performed since 2010. Expanding beyond the drum set, he also showcases his versatility as a percussionist with The Band of Long Island, a 50-piece concert band (since 2021), and The Symphonic Pops Orchestra of Long Island, a 60-piece symphonic group (since 2023).
Carmine Campo, Guitar
Carmine Campo, Guitar
Meet Carmine Campo is a seasoned guitarist and Air Force veteran whose musical journey began at the age of 13. Originally drawn to the saxophone, fate had other plans when his father discovered an old guitar and passed it on to him. Carmine instantly fell in love with the instrument and began a lifelong passion for music. After a 40-year hiatus from playing, he picked up the guitar again post-retirement, reigniting his love for performing. Today, Carmine plays with several bands, including Second Chance and the Big Buddha Band, where he specializes in the lively sounds of swing music.
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