About Forte
“When it comes to festive events, Forte’s high-energy show takes it up a few notches.” The Desert Sun.
Forte is one of the most musically diverse dance bands in the Los Angeles and Southern California area. Forte is like having several bands in one. They tend to transport the audiences through the decades with timeless classics. Starting with jazz standards, 70′s classic rock to disco, 80′s pop & funk, 90′s R&B, hip-hop & alternative, and the most up-to-date hits for younger listeners. This gives Forte the diversity of a DJ but with the energy only possible with a dynamic live band that knows how to tailor its show for each event.
In addition to the hottest nightspots in town, Forte regularly performs at regional concerts, festivals, “celebrity” & corporate parties, and casino/ resorts. In addition, they are available for all commercial and private functions. Leading the pack is lead male vocalist Gino JaVierre (lead vocals, guitar, keyboards) MCs with the authority and charisma to loosen any crowd. Lead female vocalist, the beautiful Julie Nugent, has been trained vocally and theatrically, and possessed the sound and energy to be one of the top female vocalists around. This dynamic duo is backed by Roger Bueno (bass guitar, vocals), Keith Janes (drums, percussion) and for certain events, horns and dancers.
However impressive the individual credits and experience, it is Forte’s vibrant and audience-winning style of entertainment that has resulted in much favorable response and repeat engagements. Their growing mailing list keeps their fans informed of their appearances on a monthly basis.
Meet the Band
Gino JaVierre, male vocalist and leader of Forte, is also and accomplished guitarist in his own right. He has played and recorded with various major artists from Tom Petty to Dizzy Gillespie, as well as producing and arranging. Along with his original signature sound, Gino is known for incredible authenticity when covering classic guitar-oriented songs. Learning the classics on the violin at an early age and receiving awards and scholarships won him a seat with the Los Angeles Junior Philharmonic Orchestra.
Julie Nugent supplies Forte its distinct sound with her tremendous vocal range. Once you’ve heard her go beyond stylistic boundaries, her years of vocal and dance training become evident. Just as important her intense energy and rapport with the audience. With Forte, she has built up a fan base that makes their presence known at their shows.
Roger Bueno is a master of the electric bass. This consummate musician creates pulsating bass tones that propel the band’s rhythmic intensity. This world-class bassist is fun to watch even when laying down a serious groove. He graduated from the University of Miami. While there Roger has immersed himself in playing and recording with various artists for Capitol Records, Blue Note, and Universal Records.
Keith Jones is the heartbeat of the band. He comes with 15 years of professional experience playing with notable artists such as the Temptations, Dwight Yoakum, the Neville Brothers, and members of Lynard Skynard. He is a graduate from the Percussion Institute of Technology in Hollywood. Keith also stays busy doing drum clinics and seminars in Southern California. On and off stage, this is one drummer who possesses an energetic and outgoing personality that’s infectious to audiences.