Phil Mershon is Philmonious. Philmonious is a combination of the words phil+harmonious, as well as a tribute to jazz great, Thelonius Monk.
Phil grew up in Wichita, getting his first jazz gig playing at Lawrence Dumont Stadium with Andy Clark in the 8th grade. He has studied under Wichita jazz instructors Tom Fowler and Lisa Hittle. Because his work has moved him all over the country, Phil has played with jazz greats in Orlando, Atlanta, New York City, Chicago, San Diego and Denver.
Philmonious infuses a blend of jazz, rock and pop to old standards and new hits. When playing solo Phil is accompanied by tracks created by jazz greats Dave Curtis and Paul Langford as well as some originals. When playing duos, trios or quartets, he has a variety of local musicians he involves. Phil’s wife, Audrey, also provides sultry vocals when the situation merits.
Phil plays tenor and soprano sax as well as the EWI (Electric Wind Instrument). He can play for sacred or secular concerts, parties, clubs or corporate events.
Phil’s musical influences are: John Coltrane, Stan Getz, Michael Brecker, Kirk Whalum, The Yellowjackets, Joshua Redman, Gerald Albright, Justo Almario, Greg Vail, Sam Levine, Euge Groove, David Sanborn, Joel Frahm, Eric Marienthal, Spyrogyra.
Phil’s songlist includes songs like: Misty, Georgia On My Mind, It Don’t Mean a Thing, Blue Bossa, Mercy, Mercy, Mercy, Just the Way You Are, Comin’ Home Baby, Smoke Gets In Your Eyes, My Favorite Things, Summertime, All of Me, Alice in Wonderland and many other songs from the 40s all the way up to today.
If you hire Phil for a party or corporate event, Phil can also write an original song to commemorate your anniversary, birthday, wedding, retirement or corporate function. For some samples of Phil’s songwriting (sacred and secular) go to: www.myspace.com/philmonious. Ask about pricing.