Crispin Catricala
Composer / Guitarist, Crispin Catricala received a B.A. in Music Composition from SUNY at New Paltz (82) and a M.S. in Music Education from the College of Saint Rose (93). He began studying guitar at age 13 and performing at age 17 with numerous groups. Crispin co-founded the regional celebrated World Beat ensemble Pangaea (92-07). The 15-year-old ensemble, known for mixing equal parts Caribbean Funk, Afro/Cuban and Jazz Rock into a high- energy performance has shared the stage with such musical artists such as Hugh Masakela and Richie Havens. The band released a self -titled recording in 1998, which contains many of Crispin’s originally composed songs. Crispin also released a duet recording of mostly original compositions with mallet vibraphonist Dave Casner entitled “Geo Beat Duo” (2012). In addition Crispin taught at Ballston Spa Middle School as music instructor and jazz band director for over 25 years, where he often mentored and encouraged his students to form bands of their own. Crispin continues to teach privately in his home studio. He is currently performing solo as well with several projects including Geo Beat, The Stone House Trio and The Swing Docs.