Van Manakas - guitar

Van Manakas has toured five continents and all 50 US states with jazz legends like the Gil Evans Orchestra, Paul Bley, and Miroslav Vitous. Known for his versatility in indigenous guitar styles, he has released five solo albums, including a Billboard No. 2 jazz recording, and scored award-winning films for Woody Allen.

In Nashville, Van worked as a session player with artists like Patty Lovelace and Doug Jernigan. He studied guitar with Pat Metheny and holds a BA in music composition from Berklee College of Music.

“Van Manakas has something new and different to offer, unusually gripping instrumentals performed with exceptional grace and power by a very talented guitarist.” – The New York Daily News

Wayne Lopes - guitar

Wayne Lopes, a long-standing figure in the NY music scene, is a guitarist and composer known for his contributions to art performances, dance pieces, and plays. He has performed with The Human Arts Ensemble, Judith Malina and Hanon Reznikov of The Living Theater, Nico, Ken Little Hawk, Andy 3 Raven of Brothers of the Wind, and Perry Robinson. Wayne is a founding member of the Gift of Eagle Orchestra with Van Manakas and Sylvie Degiez.

"Wayne is a brilliant finger picker, with a 'down home' quality to his work. While his playing seems free and abstract, it reveals familiar melodies and patterns on closer listening, often surprising the listener with unexpected elements." – American Primitive Guitar

Marc Wagnon - drums

Marc Wagnon, a Swiss-born musician, studied classical percussion at the Geneva Conservatory and later at Berklee School of Music. He moved to New York City, where he explored Latin American and West African rhythms, and formed the progressive jazz group Shadowlines. Marc has released several solo albums featuring notable jazz musicians and was key in forming avant-rock band Dr. Nerve.

Marc co-founded the group Tunnels, collaborated with Brand X, and worked with Mike Clark and Paul Jackson on the album Conjunction. He founded Buckyball Music, Inc., and is a pioneer in electronic vibraphone performance. Marc is an experienced educator, teaching percussion and music technology.

His fascination with science, especially astronomy, led to projects like the transmedia Perpetual Motion, which integrates music, narration, and visuals about scientific discoveries. He volunteers for NASA as a Solar System Ambassador.

Marc's latest work includes the album “Interesting Times,” commissioned music for the play "11 septembre 2001," and new releases and collaborations in theater and jazz. He continues to innovate by combining jazz with astronomy shows and jazz and Medieval music.