Mini Apple!
The Minneapolis Marriott Mini Apple Sweepstakes was launched to show vacationers that Minneapolis is a first-class travel destination and entertainment hotspot. The sweepstakes winner will experience firsthand some of these best that the city has to offer. Whether it’s shopping, sporting events, fine dining or entertainment, the Mini Apple is the place and the Marriott City Center is at the heart of it all.
To promote the Mini Apple Sweepstakes, the Al / Capone Band recorded a new single entitled The Mini Apple, a musical tribute to the Minneapolis nightlife experience. The new song was performed live for the first time at the Marriott City Center.
Al / Capone is a multi-talented, high-energy, jazz band featuring eleven Twin Cities musicians lead by drummer, Gennaro “Jeep” Capone.
About Minneapolis Marriott City Center
Enjoy the revitalized atmosphere of this sophisticated Minneapolis, MN, hotel, offering newly renovated guestrooms expertly blending comfort with contemporary design, while boasting modern conveniences and stunning city views. Located in the heart of downtown, this delightful Minneapolis luxury hotel is connected to the vibrant shopping, entertainment, and business districts through the world famous skyway system. Easy access to the Twin Cities' top attractions, including the Target Field, Target Center, Minneapolis Convention Center, Metrodome, and the historic Theatre District, positions this luxurious hotel in downtown Minneapolis as the center of it all. For more information or to make a reservation, call 612-349-4000 or visit the Minneapolis Marriott City Center Website.
Gennaro, “Jeep” Capone, Band Leader, Drummer, Vocalist, Composer
Jeep started drumming as a young boy growing up in Rockford, IL. Influenced by Buddy Rich, he has performed with numerous Midwest acts as well as international artists like The Platters, El Coco and Basia.The Al / Capone band recently released a new smooth jazz CD, entitled, Mr. Smooth.
Allen Young, Trumpet and Composer
A native of Chicago and graduate of Northwestern University, Allen has a long and productive association with Jeep Capone. Together they recorded a great deal of original music and traveled extensively. Allen has performed with the Lena Horne Show and the Glenn Miller Orchestra and composed music for television and films.
Katie Gearty, Vocalist
Nominated for Female Vocalist of 2006 by the Minnesota Music Academy, Katie sings many styles of music including jazz, R&B, rock and blues. Some of her musical influences are Sarah Vaughn, Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, and Bonnie Raitt.
Andy Nelson, Baritone Sax
Andy comes from a musical family. He earned his music degree in jazz studies from DePaul University. As a freelance musician, he has worked in over 30 countries and 5 continents.
John Bertsch, Alto Sax
John puts 100% into every performance ― And there have been many with such well-know names in music as: Sam Moore, Frankie Vali and the 4 Seasons, Peter Noone, The Temptations, Davy Jones and The Shirrells.
Peter Vircks, Tenor Sax
Peter is a founding member of the modern jazz group, Moveable Feast, and has performed for more than 25 years with many international artists. He is credited as a sideman on dozens of recorded albums. Kristofer Kulsrud, Trombone
A University of Wisconsin graduate, Kristofer often performs locally, but has taken his music to over 30 countries on various tours. He also enjoyed touring the Midwest with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra.
Chris Bates, Bass
Classically trained, Chris has been playing bass for more than 25 years. He played with jazz luminaries including Lee Konitz, Joe Lovano and Ben Sidran.
Vincent Rose, Guitar
Vincent is an accomplished electric guitarist who graduated Cum Laude from UW, Eau Claire. His professional engagements range from performing with Little Anthony and the Imperials to local big bands, small jazz groups, rock bands and acoustic groups.
Jason Craft, Keyboards
Graduated from UW, Eau Claire with a music degree. Jason toured the world as music director and pianist for Sheila Raye Charles (daughter of Ray Charles).
Larry Foyer, Lead Trumpet
Larry appeared and toured with legends: Ray Charles, Maynard Ferguson, and Sam Butera. He is featured in numerous recordings and videos and even did a stint with Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus.