History
The Gator Creek Band was founded and established in Venice on July 4th, 2003 by Michael Frank in Venice, Florida. Since then, the Gator Creek Band has been reformed to better accomodate the areas finest venues. Currently, the band offers a 3 and 4 piece conbination. The 3 piece combo feature award-winning vocals by Curtis Eastes (who also plays acoustic guitar) and award-winning female vocalist Heather Eastes, but also maintains the electrifying guitar works of Michael Frank. This version uses professional backing tracks (drums, bass and keybord) to provide quality entertainment at a reasonable price where venue space is a concern. The 4 piece combo features all the above, plus our newest addition to the band, John Saputo. John brings a wide range of percussion experience to the stage, adding a rich display of flavor and originality to our music. You have found the Hottest Southwest Florida's Country Band serving Sarasota, Venice, Tampa, Englewood, Ft. Myers, Port Charlotte, and Bradenton.
Biographies
Curtis Eastes Music has always been a positive force in my life. Performing for people seems to have come natural for me from an early age. In my early teens, the theater and performing arts gave me a chance to "show off" my vocal talents. While attending Venice High School in the late 70’s, early 80s’, I became student director of the choral department and was conductor of the award winning Blenders Show Choir specializing in a variety of harmonies and choral techniques. I received scholarships from the Shiners, Rotary club, and Venice High School to attend the Fred Waring School of Music located at Penn State University. After graduation, I continued to enjoy playing guitar and singing as a hobby while supoporting my family in the Medical field of Ophthalmology. I am a low handicap golfer, avid fisherman, and play a mean game of basketball. Singing with my sister and my brother-in law seems so natural and fun. I think that is why our harmonies blend so well together. I am also thrilled to be able to "show off’ for people again and hope everyone enjoys this as much as I do. |
Heather Eastes I have lived in the Venice Florida area for over 25 years. As a member of school chorus since the age of 10, I have come to enjoy singing and the joy it brings to others. Country music has been an inspiration for me since The Judds began their career. Listening to their harmony has intrigued and inspired me to develop my own voice and style. Perfoming with Gator Creek gives me the opportunity to share with others the music that I have come to love so much. I look forward to sharing it with you at our next show. |
Michael Frank When I started playing guitar at age twelve, I remember proclaiming, “When I grow up I either want to be a musician or an artist.” As it turns out, I have become both. Music has always been an important part of my life. My father enjoyed the Big Band sound, my mother listened to the oldies, and my brothers and sisters liked everything from Edgar Winter to Simon & Garfunkel, all of whom influenced my playing. Soon I began to play rock and contemporary Christian music as well as to experiment with jazz. I later became intrigued with Country music as it began to incorporate elements of rock and blues while still retaining the unique elements that make it a special musical form. I believe that Country music talks to everyone at some level or at some point. It speaks of real life issues from the heart – sometimes humorous, sometimes serious and sometimes sad. I'm proud to be a part of today’s Country music and am very fortunate to be able to perform with Curtis and Heather in the Gator Creek Band. See you soon! |
John Saputo There isn’t much music out there that I don’t enjoy listening to. I can listen to Metallica and Godsmack one day and Beethoven and Pavorotti the next. That is what I love about music in general; there is always something out there that can fit whatever mood you are in, or want to be in. If I had to pick one major influence regarding music it would have to be Billy Joel. I have never been formally trained to play drums. It’s something that just came natural to me. I must confess, though, prior to actually owning a set of drums, I played “air drums” for years. I truly enjoy playing the drums, and now I’ve been given an opportunity to play along side these fine folks. It is truly an honor to play with such professionals. I have lived in Venice for the past 15 years and Sarasota 10 years before that. I am originally from Connecticut and moved here in 1981. I am currently working as a Construction Administrator for Sarasota County and enjoy both the indoor and outdoor work it provides. Besides banging on the drums, I love to golf, jetski and dabble in other musical instruments. I am technically single, but my heart belongs to Tammy, my much better half. |
Special Guests
Carrie Ballew Singing has always been a passion for me; it’s my get-away. Put a microphone in my hand, and I can become anything through music. I can’t think of a better way to express myself. I have been singing Rock ‘n Roll since joining my first band in 1991. I am very excited to have an opportunity to sing with The Gator Creek Band and explore the development of original music. After so many years studying the techniques of other singers, I am looking forward to finding my own voice. Performing with a band after they have played together for so long is not always an easy transition. Mike, Curtis, Heather, John and Mark have made me feel right at home. Great people, fantastic musicians, making beautiful music together.. Awesome! Special thanks to my husband of 15 years and our two daughters for their love and support. |
Sarasota Country BandsLooking for a great country band to perform at your next private event, public event, or concert? Look no further! The Gator Creek Band is a country music band composed of local country musicians. Florida country music at its best! Looking for a band for your wedding in Sarasota County? Hire the Gator Creek Band at an affordable price. Contact us for details. We are willing to travel within reason. We serve Sarasota County, Manatee County, and Charlotte County in Florida. They include Bradenton, Venice, Englewood, Port Charlotte, Fort Myers, and North Port,to name a few. We are a professional country band. Our performances are conducted with integrity. At the same time, we love to have fun with country music fans alike! Contact us and let us help with your entertainment needs at your next function. |
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