His playing can also be heard on more movie soundtracks, television commercials, and jingles than can be listed.  Jay has toured and recorded with artists such as Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson, Prince, Henry Mancini, Herbie Hancock, Frank Zappa, Billy Preston, Lionel Richie, Diana Ross, Chaka Khan, and Barbra Streisand just to name a few.

 

Jay began playing his first professional gigs at the age of six with his father’s dance band.  His accomplishments as a young virtuoso landed him several television appearances including Tennessee Ernie Ford, Ray Bolger Show, The Dinah Shore Chevy Show, and Make Room for Daddy all before he completed middle school.

 

Prior to his career as a studio musician, Jay held the solo trumpet chair for the 6th Army Band at the Presidio of San Francisco.  After his time in the 6th Army Band, Jay spent several years touring with many artists including playing the jazz chair in the Stan Kenton Orchestra from 1966-68.  His exquisite ability to craft melodies along with his talents as a gifted improviser prompted Downbeat Magazine to name him as the “Most Promising New Jazz Artist” in 1968.

 

Today, Jay maintains an active performing and recording schedule on trumpet and keyboards.  Mr. Daversa also spends much of his time working as a musical director and producer for artists of every genera across the country and around the world.

 

Jay is also the father of world renown trumpeter, composer, educator, and three time Grammy winner, John Daversa.