Sonic Crusaders bios
Charlie Torres: bass player
Charlie's rock resume is off the charts. He has played with Joe Bonamassa, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bo Diddley, Rick Deringer, Lighting Hopkins, John Lee Hooker, Albert King, Buddy Miles, Michael Bolton, Meatloaf, Flavor Flav, Dave Bromberg, Grover Washington Jr., Dick Dale, Dr. John, Ivan Neville, Pine Top Perkins, Aretha Franklin, John and Yoko, Pheobe Snow, and Les Paul. You'd never know it because he never brags, but he has also been on several infamous TV shows like David Letterman and Arsenio Hall.
Vanessa Pare: singer
Mezzo-Soprano Vanessa Paré is originally from Glocester, Rhode Island, but has been based in the Hartford/West Hartford area for about seven years. Vanessa has mastered a diverse range of vocal genres, including classical, pop, R&B, jazz, and musical theater. Her most popular musical performances include opening the Broadway production of the Radio City Rockettes in New York City; singing back-up for the winner of the inaugural season of The Voice, Javier Colon; backing a Connecticut production of the Broadway show Rocktopia; and performing in the “Rock The Audition” Masterclass with famed New York “Rock musical guru,” Sheri Sanders. Vanessa has also starred in the debut of Opera Kardashian, playing the role of Kim Kardashian. As an active local church musician, she has been the alto section leader for Westminster Presbyterian Church in West Hartford for over six years and cantors at a variety of local churches. A summa cum laude graduate of the University of Hartford’s Hartt School of Music, Vanessa is passionate about working with students of all ages. She is the owner and creator of VP Vocal Studio, where she teaches singers of all ages and stages of musicianship how to find their most powerful and true singing voice using a holistic teaching approach.
Dave Tarzian: keyboardist/singer
Dave Tarzian, a dedicated musician, brings his profound love for music to a global audience as the appointed Musical Director for the World Radio Conference. Rooted in a solid foundation with a Bachelor of Arts degree from William Paterson University, Dave's musical exploration spans various genres, drawing inspiration from jazz, rock, and fusion.
Originally from the tri-state area, Dave has had the pleasure of collaborating with different musical groups on many stages, contributing his talent to various corporate events. His performances reflect a commitment to musical diversity, seamlessly weaving together different genres to create a memorable experience for audiences.
In addition to his musical pursuits, for the last 13 years, Dave is the owner of a successful plumbing and heating company, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and versatility.
With over 30 years of performance experience, Dave's journey is characterized by a genuine passion for music and a dedication to creating meaningful connections through his craft. The intangible force of music has always held a special place in his heart, and he remains humbled by its power as an international language.
As the Musical Director for the World Radio Conference, Dave eagerly looks forward to contributing his skills to this esteemed event. His story is one of humble beginnings, a deep love for music, and a commitment to sharing that love with the world—a continuation of a lifelong journey in the realm of music.