Funk Filharmonik is a long-running a funk and soul outfit from Astoria, New York which has been together since the mid-1980s. The group contains former Tower of Power members. Individually and collectively the group has performed and recorded with major artists.

History

The group was formed in Huntington in 1985.^[1] The original name for the group was Funk Philharmonia. Their first show was on November 21, 1985. They are one of the longest-running groups from Long Island.^[2] In the late 1990s, there were two former Tower of Power members in its lineup.^[3] Two of the founding members were drummer Lee Finkelstein and trombonist and singer, Ozzie Melendez.^[4][5] Melendez has recorded with Celine Dion, Billy Joel, Jennifer Lopez and Lita Ford.^[6] Finkelstein has worked with Ben E. King, Donna Summer, Blood, Sweat & Tears, and the Tower of Power.^[7] Members of the group have worked with and recorded with artists such as Tito Puente, Willie Colon, Freddie Hubbard, Jonathan Butler, Marc Anthony, Lionel Hampton, and the Brecker Brothers.^[8]

In 2008, they released their album Everybody Get Down.^[9] Guest musicians on the album included Barry Danielian, Carl Fischer, Jillian Armsbury, Tim Lawless and Ted Kumpel.^[10]

In April 2015, the group was appearing with Troy Ramey at K.J. Farrells in Nassau County.^[11] In late November 2015, the group was appearing at The Rockville Centre in New York.^[12]

Members

• Tom Bowes – Lead Vocals
• Ozzie Melendez – Musical Director, Trombone & Vocals
• Lee Finkelstein – Drums, Band Leader
• Brent Carter – Lead Vocals
• Ron Fox – Trumpet
• Vinnie Cinquemani – Trumpet
• John Scarpulla – Tenor Sax
• Dave Lavender – Guitar
• Chris Karlic – Baritone Sax
• Jack Knight – Bass
• Greg Schleich – Keyboards
• Steve Finkelstein – Percussion^[13]

References