The Miles Donahue Quintet

Miles Donahue’s jazz career did not begin in earnest until the age of 45. Although in the 60’s he performed at many venues with his own group that featured Harvey Swartz, Jerry Bergonzi. Charlie Banacos, Nick Goumas and Jack Diefendorf. One of these concerts in 1972 performed with Charlie Banacos and Jerry Bergonzi became known as the famous Arlington Church Concert.

In the 80s Miles did two albums for which he wrote all the original material with New York Philharmonic flutist Paige Brook. These two albums were released on Tioch records.

In 1992 Miles first major recording as a jazz leader was released on Timeless Records." Double Dribble" featured Kenny Werner, Bruce Gertz and George Schuller. A review of this recording in Saxophone Journal reads," Very few musicians today have the diversity and hidden talents Miles Donahue possesses. His phrasing of tenor and trumpet, the harmonic sophistication he plays with and his ability to swing with incredible beauty, all lead to a master musician. This is one of the best CDs I’ve heard in years."

Jazziz ‘magazine reviewer said of Miles next recording "The Good Listener" on Ram Records shows that like Benny Carter and Ira Sullivan Miles Donahue is a rare example of someone whose strong personality asserts itself without hesitation whether he’s picking up trumpet or saxophone. "Simple Pleasures" also on Ram Records was Miles next recording released in 1998. This recording featured Kenny Werner, George Garzone, Mick Goodrick, Billy Hart and Bruce Gertz.

With the instability of the record industry Miles has formed his own label Amerigo Records and the first release called "In The Pocket" features Fred Hersch, Jerry Bergonzi, Jamey Haddad, Kurt Rosenwinkle and Jay Anderson. It was released in September 2001.