David Wertman began his study of music in his early teens, and immediately after finishing school embarked on a career in music which has spanned over 40 years of continuous performing, composing, recording and study of the bass.
Mr. Wertman quickly gained recognition among Jazz and New Music fans and innovators. His approach to the bass combines the pure resonant tone of the classicist with the swinging rhythms, innovative technique and emotional power of an experienced Jazz player. In his playing one can hear echoes of such legendary bassists as Jimmy Garrison, Charles Mingus, Paul Chambers, and Ray Brown.
Beginning in the 1970’s David became a major contributor on the New Music Scene in New York . He has recorded with his group The Sun Ensemble and has performed with many well known jazz artists such as Billy Bang, Arthur Blythe, Marion Brown, Steve Reid, Dave Pike, William Parker, Archie Shepp, Dr. Lonnie Smith, Ira Sullivan, Eddie Higgins, Charles Tyler, Perry Robinson, Burton Greene, Sheila Jordon, Karrin Allyson, Lou Grassi, Jay Corre, Abbey Rader.
David is also an established Big Band bassist, touring with Ray Anthony, Erskine Hawkins, Les Elgart, Sy Zentner, Duffy Jackson, Melton Mustafa, Buddy Morrow, and the tribute bands of Benny Goodman, Stan Kenton, Cab Calloway, and Gene Krupa.
Performing in shows David has toured with Buddy Greco, The Four Freshmen, Joey Heatherton, Barbara McNair, Donald O’Conner, The Ink Spots, The Shirelles, The Drifters, Patti Page, Toni Tennille, Fran Warren, Julie Wilson, The Crystals, The Tokens, Wayne Newton, Patty Page, Al Martino.
David passed away in 2013 after a difficult, but bravely fought, battle with cancer. Donations in the name of David Wertman can be made to the Cancer Connection in Northampton, Massachusetts: http://www.cancer-connection.org/