When I first set foot on Las Olas Boulevard (I think it was in 1985) I was amazed at how lively it was with music venues. And of course, it still is. We have seen some great performers on the boulevard (check the history section for more) and it seems that even experienced, well-respected and well-traveled musicians love to play Las Olas. Take The New Connection.
Their management was in touch with me recently and told me that now that they are settled in Fort Lauderdale the guys would love a gig on Las Olas. Who wouldn’t?
Want to listen? Sure! Click the links below then use your browser’s back button to return here and learn more about the boys.
I’m Beginning to See The Light
Doug Carter is a professional pianist / entertainer / piano tuner / choir director and piano instructor. Besides functioning in all these capacities, Doug is really excited to be marketing his piano / vocalist performance business with his extremely talented, friend, vocalist, Tony Vento, Jr. The entrepreneurial spirit that exists in Doug has led him to performances for all types of special events, private parties, clubs & lounges including numerous events at the Governor’s residence in Indiana. Doug has been in a leading role as a choral director for 19 years, both in Indiana and now at Cason United Methodist Church in Delray Beach, FL. However, it is truly his passion and desire to play standard hits from all eras, contemporary, Broadway show tunes and classical music, along with his musical partner, Tony Vento, Jr., this is what you will hear. Following his passion in piano performance that Doug has championed throughout his career, he now brings his extraordinary talents along with Tony Vento as vocalist in The New Connection to venues from independent living / retirement communities, to restaurants & country clubs, lounges and night spots besides being available for small to large parties and conventions.
Tony Vento Jr., was born into a family of musicians and singers. He practically grew up in night clubs where his father and uncles were big band musicians in the fabulous forties. His mother and aunt were vocalists working with his father, Tony Vento Sr., in his orchestra, when supper clubs were all the rage. Boston-born Tony Jr. moved to New York City to pursue a career in music. At the right time he moved to Los Angeles where all his New York training came to life. In short, for twenty years he worked the club and lounge scene in Los Angeles singing with many different bands. Eventually, this led to his original songwriting with then partner Bill Schneider at the piano. In addition to Bill’s piano playing, he was the head vocal arranger for Bette Midler, and Tony and Bill worked together for ten years. Their original songs won notoriety on radio stations both locally and nationwide. A visit to Las Vegas led to several years of living there and where he worked the strip. His first engagement was at the Vegas World Hotel where he entertained the entertainers from many of the major hotels where Sammy Davis Jr. was the host for one of the evenings and meeting Sammy for Tony was a keepsake memory. Tony and his band were featured at many of the hotels and his favorite and most memorable engagements was the contract they had to perform 28 shows at Caesar’s Palace, opening for headliners and working the lounges.
Currently Doug & Tony have combined their talents with years of experience. Together they bring a well rounded array of music to audiences wherever they play. If you favor the “Great American Song Book” their individuality will certainly put a smile on your face or tug at the strings of your heart. If you favor the contemporary style from the 60s thru today they will easily entertain those who listen. If you favor classical music their repertoire consists of well known pieces you will enjoy. So, from Live in Las Vegas, Los Angeles & from Coast To Coast, The New Connection has made beautiful South Florida home now!
Clubs / Lounges / Receptions / Hotels / Resorts / Private Parties / Special Events
Doug Carter, Pianist 954-592-7750
pianospecialties@yahoo.com
pianospecialties@yahoo.com
Tony Vento, Vocalist 954-565-2608
thenewconnection@yahoo.com








