Originally published in
Earshot Jazz April 2011
Imagine playing saxophone with Charlie Parker’s trumpet player. Todd DelGiudice (rhymes with Judas) doesn’t have to imagine, it’s part of history. Red Rodney hired him in 1993 for several gigs when he was only a junior at the University of Miami. Todd played so well he was invited join the band after graduation. “It was awesome,” says Todd. “Red sounded beautiful. I was living the dream.” Unfortunately, his degree came after Rodney’s death and the hopeful plans evaporated.
Career disappointments, personal setbacks, and spiritual trials fed Todd’s humility and perseverance. Just as he began subbing in Maria Schneider’s New York band, a personal crisis brought him home to Fort Lauderdale. The difference of religion with his girlfriend created an obstacle in their relationship, so he came to terms with his faith, converted to Mormonism, and they wed. “Ultimately, I have no regrets because I was led towards my wife and my faith which are the most important things in my life.”
