About Sonic Crusaders
We are a dynamic rock band that excels at parties, weddings, and special events. We have a collection of original songs but also enjoy performing tracks from the likes of Alicia Keys, Pink Floyd, Fleetwood Mac, Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Buffet, Bob Marley, Blondie, Taylor Swift, and Pat Benatar. Our repertoire primarily includes hard rock, pop, dance music, reggae, and island music, though we are also are known for exploring other genres, including opera, hip-hop, and lounge. For more relaxed events, we offer a substantial selection of lounge music. We have performed at United Nations events globally, showcasing and introducing innovative audio technology for one of the leading names in audio equipment. One of our vocalists provides professional singing lessons, a few even specialize in opera, and one is involved in play production. Our musicians are exceptionally skilled at delivering powerful performances. Our bass player has collaborated with several renowned artists, including John Lennon and Little Richard. Most importantly, Joe Ciaudelli, who united us all, attracts wonderful crowds and people and genuinely seeks peace, love, and understanding in life and during our performances. He is also an outstanding songwriter. Our band is known for being easy to collaborate with and highly dependable. One of our tracks features a musician from Bruce Springsteen's band, and several of our albums were produced by Karl Richardson, who has worked with notable artists such as Eric Clapton, Derek and the Dominoes, Barbara Streisand, and the Bee Gees. He was also the producer of the Grease album.
Charlie Torres: Bass player
Charlie's rock resume is off the charts. He has played bass in performances with Joe Bonamassa, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, Bo Diddley, Rick Derringer, 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, Les Paul, and Rick Derringer. He has also been on several late night television shows including 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.
Rachel Menconi: Singer
Rachel Menconi has been able to share her voice, acting, & performing arts expertise for more than three decades. She started singing before she could speak & has been performing all of her life.
Rachel is a member of SAG-AFTRA, a recording artist (original album “Just Meant To Be”, original singles “You Will Love On”, “Don’t Even Try”, & “Bond of Love”), writer, director, and international singing/acting teacher. As a performer, Rachel is a proud member of The Recording Academy, NSAI, MAC, & BMI.
Rachel has performed in one-woman shows throughout NYC, has been seen on TV, in Regional/NYC/Off-Broadway theatre, films, has years experience as a session singer, lead/backup vocalist, & vocal producer. She tours nationally and internationally with the band “Sonic Crusaders.” She is also the lead female singer/co-front person of the ‘80s cover band “Say 80Thing” & is hired to sub vocals for many bands throughout NJ/NY
Rachel owns The Menconi Performance Studio (2005) & Sunshine Face Productions (2007). She has been teaching technique (singing/acting), vocal directing, and directing since 2001. As a teacher, Rachel is a member of NATS, VASTA, NAfME, NJMEA, and Educational Theatre Association.
Rachel has trained at some of NYC/NJ’s most respected schools including NYU where she received her Certificate in Arts Management &
continues to train in the arts with master teachers in between projects.
Susan Andaloro: Singer
​Susan Andaloro is a singer-songwriter, pianist, and self-taught guitarist hailing from Connecticut. She began composing songs at a very young age and creates songs with multiple layers of harmonies, such as 8-part harmonies.
She received vocal training in California and twelve years of private piano instruction from a concert pianist. The genres included classical and jazz. Additionally, she was part of an a cappella group and studied hula and Hawaiian music during her years living there.
Susan resided in Los Angeles for 12 years, where she was involved in the music and television industries (CBS), including appearances on Mad Men, CSI, and The Office. Furthermore, she has contributed to projects in Bollywood. Susan has managed several bands. She managed two music stores- Modern Music in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (focused on reggae) and Telluride Music in Telluride, Colorado (centered on bluegrass).
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Ryan Moutenot: Drummer
“Ryan Moutenot, a New Jersey-based percussionist and producer, lays down beats that cut through the noise. In the studio or on stage, Ryan’s dedication lies in the music. No frills, just killer grooves.”
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​​​​​Jason Banta: Sound Engineer
​"Jason Banta is a professional audio engineer from Connecticut who has worked in live sound and studios for 16 years. He tours regularly with national musical acts such as Amos Lee, Better Than Ezra, Tonic and has toured with legacy acts such as Bonnie Raitt, Joe Cocker and Johnny Clegg. With a passion for creativity and meaning, he puts everything into making sure the experience of the art or music is as close to the artist's intention as possible. "
Joe Ciaudelli: Guitarist, Singer, Songwriter for the band, Founder of the band
Joe Ciaudelli is a talented guitarist who has even had a lesson from Rick Derringer. He is known for his dynamic presence in the band as its founder. With a passion for music he also owns Ciaudelli Productions, which expertly manages and puts on our shows. His dedication to performance and production ensures an unforgettable experience for our audience.
Rhiannon Elliot: Singer
Jules Malunda Lozada: Percussionist, Singer
Michael Surless: guitarist and singer
