About Us
Meet the Band!!
The band was established in 2015, under leadership of Michael Carpenter, retired Music teacher and Veteran. Westbury Jazz Collective is a vibrant community band dedicated to celebrating the rich heritage of jazz music. Founded on a shared passion for improvisation, collaboration, and musical exploration, our collective brings together talented musicians from diverse backgrounds and skill levels. From classic standards to innovative compositions, we embrace the spirit of jazz in all its forms, captivating audiences with our dynamic performances and infectious energy. Committed to nurturing a supportive and inclusive musical community, we welcome musicians of all ages and experience levels to join us in our journey to keep the jazz tradition alive and thriving in Westbury and beyond.
How to Join the Band!!
-You must know how to read music.
-Have your own instrument and music stand!
-Most importantly, you must love music!
-We rehearse every Thursday 5:30pm-7:30pm Westbury High School, NY 11590.
We provide the music sheets!
Email-westburyjazzcollective@gmail.com more additional information.
Who we are
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
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
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
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
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.
Dianne Allen, Vocalist
Our vocalist, Dianne Allen has been referred to as "a siren of sound having a melodious voice yet brassy and live". Trained under the tutelage of Joseph Scott, Jr at the Ansonia Hotel in NYC honing my craft and embracing the essence of musical expression. Dianne captivated audiences at renowned venues such as The Broad Street Ballroom, The Water Club, Grand Central terminal, NE Balcony, Mark Twains Mansion, Jazz Gallery, Jazz 966,and several Libraries. Dianne is currently the Vocalist for the Westbury Jazz Collective Orchestra Directed by Michael Carpenter. Grateful for her many blessings she continues to stay true to her motto.Keep music alive.
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.
Roberto Hewitt, Percussion
Meet Roberto Hewett, a percussionist who embarked on his musical journey at the age of 13. He honed his skills in his high school band and furthered his education at the Brooklyn Music School. Roberto delved into the realm of percussion instruments while participating in an African dance troupe during his college years. He found another avenue for his passion in church worship services and spent a decade playing in a Christian band. Additionally, Roberto contributed to the creation of three Christian contemporary albums with the band.
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
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
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.
Tyrone Morris, Trumpet
Meet Tyrone Morris on Lead Trumpet and Flugelhorn. He has played Trumpet, Flugelhorn, French Horn, and Baritone Horn for over four decades and is leader of the jazz ensemble Perfect Pitch Project. He chose the trumpet as his primary instrument after hearing the incredible Phenix Horns of Earth, Wind and Fire. He says that that was the best decision ever! He joined the former Yes We Can Community Band in January 2016. Playing with the WJC under the tutelage of Michael Carpenter has been a very enriching experience. Tyrone looks forward to his continued personal growth and also development of the band under Michael’s leadership.
Elliot Walthrust,Trumpet
Meet Elliott Walthrust, a talented trumpeter who began his musical journey at age 8. By 13, he toured Irish cities like Limerick, Dublin, and Belfast with the St. Gerard Majella marching band. At 16, he recorded his debut album with the group Hi Fidelity. In his teens and 20s, he performed in renowned NYC clubs like Copacabana and Leviticus. Battling drug addiction in his mid-20s, Elliott found solace in faith, embracing Jesus Christ. Now, he leads the worship band at Westbury Gospel Tabernacle, mentoring youth and integrating them into Sunday services.
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.
Jim Tepe, Piano
Meet Jim Tepe, a talented musician with a profound love for music. In addition to his mastery of the keys, Jim showcases his musical versatility by playing the tenor saxophone. He is delighted to be a part of the Westbury Jazz Collective band, where his passion for music thrives.