Ed Cherry Quartet

Born in New Haven,Conn., Ed Cherry played guitar with Dizzy Gillespie from 1978 to 1992, performing in Gillespie's quartet, big band and with The United Nation Orchestra.

In 2001, Cherry toured Europe for the first time with his own group. He also released his latest CD, The Spirit Speaks on the Canadian Justin Time label, inspired by the great jazz organist Jimmy Smith with whom he had also recently worked. Ed was asked to perform at the 'Vodaphone Madarao Jazz festival' in 2002 in Madarao Japan with his quartet featuring trumpeter Jon Faddis.

In 2003 Ed performed with his quartet at Detroit Jazz Festival.Right now,Ed is a member of vocalist Paula West quartet as well as leading his own trio. In addition to his stellar work as a sideman and as a critically acclaimed leader, Ed Cherry also has impressive credentials as a music educator. He taught guitar at Essex Community College in Newark, NJ from 1995 to 1996, and at the Henry Street Settlement in New York City from 1996 to 1997.

He was also a faculty member at Montclair State University, School of Fine and Performing Arts for J.O.Y. (Jazz Opportunity for Youth).Ed is currently on staff at 'jazzmobile'