Dan Orlando

When people think of West Grove, many things may come to mind: mushroom farms, Avon Grove High School football games and local businesses, but music may not usually be top of mind.

For local musician and recording artist Dan Orlando, however, it always is. Although he began playing piano at the age of six, he credits his time and connections in West Grove for nurturing his early passion for music.

“I met my most important piano teacher and mentor, Stuart Armstrong, while I was living here, so that’s number one,” said Orlando, 36, who lived in West Grove from the age of 11 to his graduation from Avon Grove High School in 2007. “Number two, I had a great music program while I was in the Avon Grove School District, filled with great music teachers and a lot of talented students who were my friends.”

After high school, Orlando attended the prestigious University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in jazz piano. It was at the Conservatory where he drew inspiration from artists like Keane and Coldplay, admiring their ability to feature piano prominently in a way that resonated with everyday listeners. Additionally, he idolized Freddie Mercury of Queen for his dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess, while the soulful sounds of Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye shaped his musical style.

In 2016, Dan stepped into the national spotlight, performing at the “Power of Love” 20th Anniversary Gala that celebrated Tony Bennett’s 90th birthday at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, where he performed with “American Idol” Season 6 winner Jordin Sparks. In the past several years, he has also supported headliners like Andrea Bocelli, Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Robin Thicke, and the Blues Brothers.

Orlando currently has one studio album, Heritage Trail, which he recorded in Nashville and released in February of this year. He describes the album as a “pop record for the heartland,” a combination of his east coast identity with Nashville influence and production. He is also currently working on his new album, Tunnel Vision, for a 2025 release, and has performed across the country both independently and with the Lords of 52nd Street, Billy Joel’s original band.

Orlando recognizes the importance of home in his career and wants to nurture musical artistry in his community as others previously did for him.

“West Grove is due for a renaissance in the arts,” said Orlando, who now lives in Delaware County. “There’s a great culture in West Grove that supports the arts and supports music and there’s a lot of talent in our area that’s hiding in the woods.”

Orlando is “tapping in” to the musical potential he sees in the area by hosting monthly open mic nights at Blondes and Brewnettes in West Grove. He has also established his band which features local musicians Rob Swanson of West Grove on bass and Larry Scotton Jr. of Wilmington on drums and plays frequently at Gallucio’s in Wilmington and Wayvine Vineyards in Nottingham. Orlando shared that he feels especially grateful to the local crowds these venues foster.

“I feel a very special energy, because it’s like a high school reunion or family reunion, and it’s very personal and I appreciate that a lot,” he said. “Every time I play in West Grove or Nottingham, or anywhere in Chester County, but particularly our neighborhood, it just gives me a boost.”

This “boost” can be momentous for anyone’s motivation in pursuing their dreams, especially a young creative in a small-town. Orlando shared advice for the next generation of local musicians.

“Go explore major markets if you want like New York, Los Angeles, or Nashville but don’t be afraid to come home either,” he said. “You can build an audience in your hometown, and you can utilize that audience and make big steps in major markets. That’s what I’m doing.

“Because I’m a performer I think of an album like a set list and I imagine that I’m playing that album for people and that helps me get into the right space creatively.”

Orlando shared that his performances have taken him all over the East Coast, Los Angeles, and the southwest. He looks forward to continuing tours nationwide and expanding internationally in the future as well. Though working in the music industry and having such large ambitions for oneself is not always easy, he offered advice on how he keeps the dream alive.

“Draw strength from every victory large and small and keep stock of those victories so you recognize your progress,” he said. “That’s what keeps me motivated the most.”

Orlando shared credit for those victories with his support system including his managerial and artistic teams both here and in Nashville, as well as his wife, Sara, for their contributions to his career.

While Orlando’s musical career has taken him all over the country, West Grove will always remain home for him.

“I am proud to come from where I come from and how much I appreciate the people of West Grove and southern Chester County for how supportive they’ve been,” he said. “I’ve seen it in our results but more importantly, I’ve felt it in person, and it just makes me feel unstoppable.”

Dan Orlando will perform with Five For Fighting at the Ardmore Musical Hall in Ardmore, Pa. on Aug. 6, and will give a solo performance at Blondes & Brewnettes in West Grove on Aug. 17. To learn more about Orlando, visit www.danorlandojr.com. - Chester County Press

By MACKENZIE WITT THE NEWS-ITEM

SHAMOKIN — When Dan Orlando was a child, he raided his parents’ vinyl record collection. He immediately gravitated towards Elton John’s “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” and Billy Joel’s “Turnstiles.”

It was anyone’s guess that years later, Orlando would be singing in Billy Joel’s original band, The Lords of 52nd Street, and singing music from “Turnstiles,” among other tunes, with the band.

Orlando, 36, played piano comfortably long before he spoke comfortably as a child.

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He was born in Upper Darby but spent the second half of his childhood in West Grove, a borough near the state’s southeastern corner. However, he and his family often traveled back to the area to visit his maternal relatives in Centralia.


Many of his family members on his mother’s side, including his parents, were performers and musicians.

“They had singers, performers and a traveling troupe at one point,” Orlando said. “It was almost unusual for one of the children not to be able to carry a tune with ease.”

On the other hand, his father wasn’t as much of a performer as he was a lover of the meaning and core of songs.

“He loved to know more about the artists and what the songs were talking about. He always liked to seek out the more stripped-down versions of hits because he wanted to connect more with the song,” Orlando said.

He credits his love of music and affinity for performance to genetics, his parents and his upbringing.

“I don’t remember a time where I wasn’t compelled (to perform),” he said, adding that he felt a deep “need” to perform and sing. He would often hurry through other activities or hobbies to play the piano sooner.

Orlando started taking his talent as a singer and pianist seriously when he turned 15. After graduating from high school, he studied jazz piano at the University of Cincinnati.

He worked in New York in wedding bands and studio sessions with other musicians and artists. Meanwhile, he busied himself writing his own songs and trying to kickstart his career as a solo artist.

He signed with an indie label in Florida, but many of the songs he wrote, performed and recorded never “went to market,” he said. He cut ties with the label and returned to New York, where he met former New York Yankees baseball player and jazz guitarist Bernie Williams.

He simultaneously met and got to know Richie Cannata, a saxophonist and original member of Billy Joel’s band, the Lords of 52nd Street, since 1975. Orlando performed with Cannata during a jam in November 2016 at the Bitter End, a music venue in the East Village in New York.

Orlando auditioned for a role in the Lords of 52nd Street years later. He’s been the band’s lead vocalist and pianist for the last five years. He plays alongside drummer Liberty DeVitto and guitarist Russell Javors.

Orlando recorded his first studio album, Heritage Trail, in Nashville, Tennessee, and released the full album last year.

He said the album’s tone is “mostly reflective” because it discusses themes of personal redemption and finding his purpose.

He draws inspiration from Billy Joel’s early works, Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Steve Charles, as well as Green Day and Coldplay.

Orlando is working on his next studio album, Tunnel Vision, focusing more on “the now.” He discusses falling in love and chasing his dreams in his songs.

He’s hoping to release the new album next year.

Orlando described his continued membership and performances with the Lords of 52nd Street as “one of the crowning achievements of his career, to date.”

He described Billy Joel’s music as accessible and complex.

“It really pushes you to have full control over your domain and make a lot of choices in real time as to how you’re doing it live,” Orlando said.

The “Turnstiles” album made him want to play rock and roll music and the piano, both of which he can do with the Lords of 52nd Street while also playing select songs from that album.

Having that full-circle moment of falling in love with the album and playing that music with the band was “so clarifying,” Orlando said.

He continued, “These guys organize themselves in a way to earn off of their hard-earned legacy. I get to support those guys and that legacy and play that music. It’s been an incredible audience builder and a way to network with and meet people.”

Orlando met his wife, Sarah, through the band.

Last year, they got married at Mother Cabrini Church in Shamokin. Friar James Fukes, pastor of Mother Cabrini Church, officiated the wedding ceremony in English and Spanish. Many of Orlando’s aunts and uncles also got married in that church, and he’s also attended funerals there as well.

“There are highs and lows there. Our wedding was a very special day,” he said.

Orlando is slated to perform a solo concert at Brady Fire Co. Banquet Hall in Ranshaw from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, to benefit Mother Cabrini Church.

He said he’s looking forward to performing in front of the local audience. He plans to perform his own songs and other famous tunes.

“I’m a big believer in bringing the music to the people. This concert validates a larger part of my mission in bringing my music directly to the people,” Orlando said.

Doors for the concert open at 1 p.m. A cash bar and light refreshments will be available throughout the event.

Tickets can be purchased for $25 at Mother Cabrini Parish Office, 214 N. Shamokin St., Shamokin, or by calling the office at 570-648-4512, or at Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School on Clinton Avenue in Coal Township, or by calling 570-644-0375. The deadline to purchase tickets is Tuesday morning. A limited amount of tickets also will be available at the door.

Mark Gilger, a longtime active member of Mother Cabrini Church who is helping organize and promote the concert, expressed his deep appreciation to Orlando for playing the benefit concert for the church. “On behalf of the friars and parishioners of our church, I want to thank Dan for taking time out of his extremely busy schedule to play for us. He is an outstanding entertainer, singer, songwriter and pianist and a fantastic person. I urge everyone to come out and listen to his fabulous music while supporting a great cause.”

More information about Orlando can be found online at www.danorlandojr.com, or on his social media pages. - The News-Item

While my bailiwick is classical music, I enjoy multiple music styles: jazz, blues, and even pop music. Last Saturday the Millbrook Winery hosted a fundraiser for the NAMM Foundation which supports music programs in schools across the country. After retirement from his legendary career with the New York Yankees, Bernie (five times an All-star with a .297 batting average with a Golden Glove award) was one of the most effective lobbyists in our nation’s capital who pushed to get federal funding for the NAMM Foundation. All profits from the well-attended concert went to the NAMM Foundation which supports music education in schools in Dutchess County.

Born Bernabé Williams Figueroa, Jr. in Puerto Rico, Williams played classical guitar at the age of seven and thought he might have a career as a musician, yet the money-making rhythm of his life was his batting and fielding with the Yankees (1991-2006). He now enjoys a second career with his band, which plays a varied assortment of pop music.

Bernie and his band play several times a year at the Millbrook Winery, and he has created a new series of wines with the winery: Cabernet, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay, which have had national success.

The band opened with “African Blues,” a composition by Williams where Williams on electric guitar and Erik Piza on percussion excelled. With “El Rimo de Otono” (The Return of Autumn”) a massive fog blew through the winery as lightning flashes appeared to echo Williams’ guitar. “Layla” brought singer-keyboardist Dan Orlando to the fore with expert backing by drummer Joe Piteo. “Red, Red Wine,” a traditional folk favorite, allowed Dan Orlando’s voice to shine with bass guitar backing from Kip Sophos.

“La Salsa en Mi,’” another Williams composition, delivered strong salsa rhythm with acid rock solos on Williams’ guitar that set up exciting contrasts.

To slow the pace Orlando sang and played keyboard with “In Your Eyes” by Peter Gabriel who said the song lyrics can either “refer to a romantic relationship or a divine one between the listener and God.” After this elevation, all players were unified in “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy,” (1966), a noted jazz piece composed for Cannonball Adderley; here William’s guitar appropriated the role of Adderly’s alto-sax. “I Wish” (1976) was a big hit for Stevie Wonder and brought the focus to childhood where the love of music first begins, an appropriate end to the set.

After Intermission Mary Leuhrsen, who worked closely with Williams to create the NAMM Foundation spoke of their struggle to bring music to local schools. (Donald Trump says he wants to end such educational programs.) Local pianist Larry Ham led a quartet with Williams on guitar, high-school students Gionna Amodeo on drums and Michael Schiavulli on tenor sax, thrilling the audience with “Watermelon Man.” Each of the four players performed a solo. I was especially impressed with the tone and nuance of Michael’s horn playing and I expect to hear him somewhere again….

The band played five more numbers, my favorite being “You Can Call Me Al.” The Finale encore was, of course, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” as a singalong.

I was impressed by Dan Orlando (who began playing piano at 6). After the concert, I spoke to him. He has a pleasant voice that can carry deep emotion. He told me his favorite pianist was Oscar Peterson, followed by Herbie Hancock, and, of course, Bill Evans. I hope to hear more of Orlando, who sometimes plays piano at Manhattan venues. Orlando will be playing at the 350 Bistro in Springfield, MA, on August 23rd.

The Millbrook Winery on Wing Road has a wine club and is open Monday-Thursday from noon to 5 pm; Friday from noon to 8 pm; Saturday and Sunday, noon to 6 pm. Concerts are usually on Saturday nights. Check out their website: millbrookwinery@millwine.com. - The Millbrook Indenpendent

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Dan Orlando, a rising star in Philadelphia's music scene, is set to open for Five for Fighting at Ardmore Music Hall on August 6, 2024. Fans will have the opportunity to experience original music from his recently released LP, "Heritage Trail."

Dan's journey is one of passion, talent, and unwavering dedication. Known for his emotionally charged rock and roll melodies, his music leaves a lasting impression.

Dan Orlando
Dan Orlando
"This event will be an unforgettable blend of music for everyone," Orlando remarked. "I've long admired Five for Fighting and am honored to share the stage with them in Philadelphia."

In addition to his solo career, Dan is the lead singer of The Lords of 52nd Street, a band featuring original members of the Billy Joel band, which tours across the Northeast. His exceptional talent led him to the prestigious University of Cincinnati's College-Conservatory of Music, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in jazz piano. Here, he drew inspiration from artists like Keane and Coldplay, admiring their ability to prominently feature piano in a way that resonates with everyday listeners.

Described as "unstoppable," Dan's unique blend of pop, rock, R&B, and balladry connects with fans across genres and generations.

"My goal is to create music with a timeless quality," Dan explained. "I want to craft songs that people of my generation can't wait to show their grandkids someday."

Growing up in West Grove, Pennsylvania, Dan's musical journey began early. He knew Mozart before he knew his ABCs and cherished his afternoon piano lessons. A pivotal moment came when he discovered Elton John's Goodbye Yellow Brick Road in his father's CD collection. He didn't know piano could rock.

"My passion is performing the piano live and delivering a performance that is both unique and memorable," Orlando continued. "I hope this performance at Ardmore Music Hall will open more doors for me to do what I love."

Dan is currently in the studio working on his second album, set for release in 2025. His hit song, "Music in My Head," is available on all music streaming platforms. Tickets for the event are still available.

To interview Dan Orlando, contact Joshua Baca at jb@resilientpartners.us or 571.438.5816.
Listen to "Heritage Trail" here.
Learn more about Dan Orlando here.
Contact: Joshua Baca, jb@resilientpartners.us - PR Newswire

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Rising music sensation Dan Orlando has joined forces with New York Yankees legend and Latin Grammy nominated guitarist and composer Bernie Williams to release a new single, " Perpetual Motion." The track, a captivating blend of their individual musical styles, is a celebration of their shared passion for creating timeless music that resonates across generations.

Bernie Williams, widely known for his Hall of Fame-worthy baseball career, has successfully carved out a second chapter as a respected musician, often blending his love for jazz, Latin, and classical influences. Williams has also become a powerful advocate for charitable causes through his music, further solidifying his role as a leader both on and off the field.

Dan Orlando, a fast-emerging talent in the music world, recently made waves with the release of his debut LP "Heritage Trail," available on all major streaming platforms. His powerful vocals and masterful piano work are quickly establishing him as a notable presence in the contemporary music scene.

"This collaboration with Bernie has been nothing short of inspiring," said Dan Orlando. "We connected so naturally, and 'Perpetual Motion' reflects that synergy. It's a song that not only speaks to our shared musical roots but also our desire to create music that stands the test of time."

Bernie Williams echoed that sentiment, saying, "Music has been a huge part of my life since I left baseball, and working with Dan on 'Perpetual Motion' has been a true highlight. He put so much heart and soul into this project, and I can't wait for our fans—both old and new—to experience it."

The collaboration between Orlando and Williams is already generating buzz in the music world, as the duo expertly weaves together their distinct influences to create a track that is both fresh and deeply evocative. "Perpetual Motion" is now available on all streaming platforms.

For media inquiries, please contact Joshua Baca at jb@resilientpartners.us or Steve Fortunato at steve@bw51productions.com. - The Facts

PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Dan Orlando, a rising powerhouse in pop, rock, and R&B, has released the highly anticipated music video for his hit single, "Music In My Head." Now available across all major platforms and social media channels, the video marks a bold step in Orlando's artistic journey and his commitment to creating music that transcends genres and generations.

"The release of 'Music In My Head' is more than just a milestone—it's a celebration of everyone who has believed in my music for over two decades," said Dan Orlando. "This video is a visual journey capturing the energy and emotion I pour into my music. It's just the beginning of my future—filled with songs that resonate across different styles and audiences."

Dan Orlando's musical path is a story of relentless passion and remarkable talent. A child piano prodigy, his early years were marked by a love for music that defined his life's purpose. Known for his powerful and emotionally charged melodies, Dan's ability to blend rock, pop, and R&B has set him apart as an artist.

His debut studio LP, Heritage Trail, solidified his reputation as one of the most versatile and compelling voices in today's music scene. The album's standout track, "Music in My Head," has captured the hearts of fans and is now brought to life through this new video—a visual narrative reflecting the creative struggles and triumphs every musician faces.

"'Music in My Head' came from a very personal place but speaks to the universal experience of every artist who chases inspiration," Orlando shared. "I wanted this video to tell the story of the creative process—the highs, the lows, and the beauty of finally bringing an idea to life."

This summer, Dan opened for Five for Fighting, showcasing his growing influence in the music industry. As the lead singer of The Lord's of 52nd Street, alongside the original members of Billy Joel's band, Dan continues to build a legacy while carving his unique path. With his second album already in the works and set for release in 2025, he is poised to take his artistry to new heights.

For media inquiries, please contact Joshua Baca at jb@resilientpartners.us.

Listen to "Heritage Trail".
Learn more about Dan Orlando. - Cision PR Newswire