Meet the Band!
Leader of the Band, Alto Saxophone
Mike James
When Mike James steps onto the stage, saxophone in hand and a grin that could light up the night, you know you’re in for something special. As the heart and soul of The Savoys Show Band, Mike doesn’t just lead a band—he creates a joyful celebration of music, friendship, and pure energy that leaves audiences cheering. From his smooth saxophone riffs to his heartfelt rendition of “God Bless the USA,” Mike’s performances are unforgettable, and his story is just as captivating. Mike’s love for music began in sixth grade in Dayton, Ohio, where the clarinet and saxophone first captured his heart. Growing up, he honed his craft in school bands, church choirs, and orchestras, building a foundation that would define his life. After graduating from Vandalia Butler High School, Mike pursued a Performance Arts degree at Otterbein University in Westerville, Ohio, setting the stage for a lifelong passion for music.
While studying at Otterbein, Mike worked part-time at Sears, a job that would unexpectedly shape his career. After graduation, he joined the Sears store at Northland Mall in Columbus, Ohio, and in 1978, he relocated to South Florida to work at the new Broward Mall Sears in Plantation. Over the next 38 years, Mike climbed the ranks, managing Sears stores in Ft. Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Hialeah, and Coral Gables. But even as he thrived in retail, music remained his true calling. In South Florida, Mike immersed himself in the vibrant music community, particularly in Christian music.
For several years, he served as Minister of Music at a Ft. Lauderdale church, where he and his wife, Linda, a talented pianist and organist, performed at weddings, private parties, and church events. Together, they produced Passion Plays, Christmas pageants, and Christian Musician Concerts, and even formed a Christian band called “Resurrection,” delighting audiences across South Florida.In The Villages, Mike’s saxophone found a home with the Hometown Band, The Jazz Workshop, The Ambassadors, The Villages All Star Band, and the LC Swing Big Band. Today, he’s a proud member of Shades of Blue and leads both The Savoys Show Band and The Savoys Party Express Band, bringing his signature energy to every performance.
Since taking the helm of The Savoys in May 2018, Mike has transformed the band into a dynamic force. Behind the scenes, he’s a whirlwind of creativity—selecting music, writing or sourcing charts, and ensuring every note is ready for his talented musicians. No two setlists are ever the same, as Mike tailors each show to the audience, guaranteeing a fresh and unforgettable experience. He even creates dazzling stage elements, like a glowing Savoys sign, a giant heart for Sweetheart dances, and a massive Shamrock for St. Patrick’s Day shows. To Mike, The Savoys are more than a band—they’re family. His positivity and work ethic are infectious, inspiring his musicians to bring their best to every rehearsal and performance. “Mike treats us like family because to him, we are,” says one band member. That sense of camaraderie shines through in every note, making The Savoys a beloved fixture in The Villages and beyond.
Offstage, Mike is a devoted family man. He and Linda, his partner in life and music, share a home in The Villages with their Whoodle dog, Jazzy. They’re proud parents to their son, Michael, twin daughters, Kristin and Kelly, and doting grandparents to five grandchildren. Mike’s deep values and faith guide everything he does, from his music to his relationships. As one friend puts it, “Nobody has a bad word to say about Mike James.” From his Ohio roots to the sunny stages of Florida, Mike has lived a life steeped in music, family, and faith. With The Savoys, he’s created something truly special—a band that doesn’t just perform but brings people together in celebration. Whether he’s belting out a soulful tune or crafting a show that lights up the room, Mike plays every note with a smile.
Want to experience the magic of Mike James and The Savoys Show Band? Visit www.thesavoysdanceband.com to learn more about upcoming performances and join the party!
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Alto Saxophone
​Dave Flanigan
Multi-instrumentalist Dave Flanigan brings a wealth of musical expertise and a storied career to his new role as alto saxophonist with the Savoys. Originally from Indiana, Dave spent much of his professional life in the vibrant Detroit music scene before relocating to The Villages, Florida, in 2007. His virtuosity spans saxophone (alto, tenor, and soprano), clarinet, flute, piano, and organ, showcasing a remarkable versatility that has enriched countless ensembles and performances.​
In Detroit, Dave was a prominent figure in the jazz and big band community, performing with esteemed groups such as the Austin-Moro Orchestra, Johnny Trudell Orchestra, Brookside Jazz Ensemble, New McKinney's Cotton Pickers, Phil Ogilvie's Rhythm Kings, and Tommy Saunders's Dixieland Band. His talent also led to collaborations with legendary artists, including Tex Beneke, Ray McKinley, Warren Covington, Sammy Kaye, Vic Damone, Nancy Wilson, and Aretha Franklin. A highlight of his career was touring with Marcus Belgrave's Louis Armstrong tribute band, a testament to his ability to honor jazz traditions while captivating audiences. Beyond the stage, Dave contributed to Detroit's cultural fabric as an organist and choir member in several local churches.
​Since settling in The Villages, Dave has remained a dynamic force in the local music scene. As a solo pianist, he has enchanted audiences with his nuanced performances, while his involvement in ensembles such as the LC Swing Big Band, Lake Saxophone Quartet, Perseverance Jazz Band, Red Garter Jazz Band, Southland Dixie Stompers, Part Time Jazz Ensemble, and now the Savoys reflects his enduring passion for collaboration. His contributions extend to sacred music, serving as an organist for area churches and as the piano accompanist for the Brothers in Song men's chorus. Additionally, Dave lends his voice to the Villages Voices Chorus, further showcasing his multifaceted artistry.​With a touch of humor, Dave notes that his "retirement" in The Villages mirrors the vibrant musical life he led in Detroit, a testament to his unwavering dedication to music. The Savoys are thrilled to welcome Dave Flanigan, whose extraordinary talent and rich legacy promise to elevate every performance.
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Musical Director, Tenor Saxophone
Jim Cassara
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Jim Cassara, a Villager since 2015, is a native Long Islander with music degrees from Adelphi University (BA), Queens College (MS), and Long Island University (PD). A former public school instrumental music teacher and band director, Jim taught at every level (elementary, junior high, and high school). He retired as Director of Music for the Northport-East Northport School District, one of the top 100 school districts for music education in the United States. Jim was a music education/adjunct professor at Long Island University for 20 years. Jim was elected into the Brentwood High School Hall of Fame at its inaugural opening.
As a musician, he performed as solo alto saxophonist with The Atlantic Wind Symphony Ensemble that performed at Carnegie Hall in 1998. Jim is past president of the New York State School Music Association and has performed in pit orchestras for over 70 musicals, giving over 500 performances as a wood doubler (Saxophones, flutes, and clarinets). He performs with the Shades of Blue Jazz Octet, The Villages Symphonic Winds, The Villages Swing Band, the Part-Time Big Band, and The Savoys Show Band and Party Express.
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Tenor Saxophone
Bill Jeczalik
Bill Jeczalik began his musical journey at age seven with private saxophone lessons. Demonstrating early talent, he was invited to join the high school band in seventh grade. After graduating high school, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army, completing the Warrant Officer Rotary Wing Aviator Course in 1967. He served as a CH-47 Chinook pilot in Vietnam, earning 24 Air Medals and a Silver Star for Gallantry. Throughout his military service, Bill continued to nurture his passion for music, bringing his saxophone to Vietnam.​
Upon returning, Bill married his wife, Beverly, and settled in New Jersey, where he performed with the Gloria Concert Band for 12 years. In 1983, the couple relocated to Boynton Beach, Florida, where Bill joined the Boynton Beach Concert Band and the Symphonic Band of the Palm Beaches. During this period, he also played with The Saxophonics, a local saxophone ensemble, and served as a substitute musician for various regional swing bands.​
In 2019, Bill and Beverly moved to The Villages, Florida, where he remains an active and versatile musician. He performs with The Savoys, The Moonlighters, The Ambassadors, The Saxations, The Villages Concert Band, The M&M's Dance Band, and The Villages Swing Band, contributing his exceptional talent to the vibrant local music scene.
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Baritone Saxophone
Dan Southworth
Dan Southworth plays the baritone saxophone. Dan has been playing Saxophone and Clarinet since 6th grade. Auditioning to be an Army Bandsman during his senior year at Vanguard High School in Ocala, Florida, Dan enlisted in the Army in 1975 and left for Basic one week after his high school graduation. After attending the U.S. Army School of Music in Norfolk, Virginia, Dan served in the 80th Army Band, Ft. Stewart/Hunter AAF in Savannah, GA, from 1976-1978.
Deciding to pursue a career as a professional musician, Dan left the Army in 1978 and played with several groups in Central Florida and as a seasonal musician at Disney World, primarily playing Bari Sax and Bass Clarinet. During this time, Dan had the privilege to play in backup bands for John Davidson, Petula Clark, and Mel Torme. Unfortunately, the life of a professional musician is hard, and finding it increasingly difficult to maintain a steady income, Dan re-auditioned for the Army Band program in 1982 and looked forward to assignment to the 8th Army Band in Seoul, Korea. However, fate intervened, and he could not re-enlist in the band. Approached to try out for a Signals Intelligence specialty, Dan tested successfully and trained as a Chinese Language Analyst. After attending the Defense Language Institute, where he met his future wife, Vickie, who was also training to be a Chinese Linguist, followed by several other schools, Dan embarked on a 36-year career in Signals Intelligence. During his career as a Signals Intelligence Analyst and Technical Advisor, Dan had postings in Hawaii, Maryland, and Florida and a 17-year stint in Germany. Dan finished his Federal Career as the Senior Cryptologic Advisor to U.S. Army Europe, retiring in 2017.
The Demands of his career and family left little time for pursuing his musical interests. So, when Dan retired in 2017 and moved to The Villages to be closer to his parents, he made getting back into playing the Sax a priority. Thanks to Jean Butler, Conductor of the Villages Concert Band, Dan quickly got introduced to the Bands of The Villages. He is currently a member of the Symphonic Winds, The Villages Swing Band, The Jazz Workshop, and The Savoys Show Band.
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Trumpet
Joe Cappellini
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Joe Cappellini is an accomplished musician and educator with a distinguished career in both music and public service. Beginning his musical journey in second grade with the accordion, he transitioned to the trumpet in sixth grade and later mastered the keyboards. From 6th grade through 2004, Joe performed in various ensembles, including rock and jazz bands, as well as marching bands, concert orchestras, and other musical groups. He earned a Bachelor of Music degree and a Master of Music Education degree, leveraging his expertise to teach middle and high school bands for 20 years.
In 1998, Joe transitioned to a career in corrections, serving over 16 years with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections. His roles included Food Service Instructor, Police Firearms Instructor, and Hostage Negotiator, with experience in both a Level 2 prison and a maximum-security facility.
After retiring in 2014, Joe relocated to the Village of Gilchrist, where he rekindled his passion for music. Since joining the Jazz Workshop in September 2014, he has performed as a trumpeter with several churches, the Village Pop Orchestra as an occasional substitute, and the Village All Star Big Band.In addition to his musical pursuits, Joe is an avid martial artist and a member of The Villages Karate for Life Club. He resides in The Villages with his wife, Kim, and is the proud father of his son, Dr. Christopher Cappellini.
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Trumpet
Chuck Mander
Chuck Mander is a retired Navy musician whose credentials include performances with jazz trombonist Bill Watrous, comedian Bob Hope, television personality Bob Keeshan (Captain Kangaroo) and local celebrity Fernando Varela. He plays Eb soprano cornet with the Celebration Brass Band, trumpet with the Villages Dixieland Band, the Shades of Blue Octet and The Savoys Show Band. In addition to these ensembles, he does free-lance playing in and around The Villages.
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Trumpet
Mark Ely
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Trombone
Jim Fish
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Jim Fish graduated from Portland High School in 1962 and pursued higher education at Michigan State University on a music scholarship, where he studied for three years. During his time at MSU, he performed in the prestigious MSU Marching Band under the direction of Bill Moffitt and the MSU Concert Band led by Leonard Falcone. In September 1965, Jim was drafted into the U.S. Army and, following a successful audition, served two years in the 113th USATC Band.Upon his honorable discharge, Jim transitioned to a career in the electrical trade to support his wife and child, completing an apprenticeship to become a journeyman inside wireman in 1968. He later earned the designation of master electrician, a role he held until his retirement in 2005. A dedicated alumnus, he joined the Michigan State Alumni Band, performing annually at a football game, and was a charter member of the "Strolling Spartans" from 1983, entertaining fans at tailgating events.
In retirement, Jim and his wife relocated to The Villages, Florida, where he rekindled his passion for music. A lifelong musician, he co-founded The Savoys in 1957 during junior high and has since participated in various musical ensembles. He resides in The Villages with his wife, Rosie.
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Trombone
Ed Stromski
Ed Stromski is hands-down the most positive person you’ll ever meet, radiating kindness and an incredible work ethic. A talented trombone player, he not only shines on stage but also jumps in to set up the sound system and load it into the vans with a smile. Always cheerful and dependable, Ed’s great attitude and dedication make him a true standout in our community!
Ed graduated from Ithaca College where he was a music major. Following graduation, he joined the USAF band, and he joined the Air Force's pilot training program and became a pilot. He then pursued a career with American Airlines, and recently retired as a B-767 International Captain for American Airlines. He maintained a passion for trombone, playing an 18-year run with the Air National Guard Band, a 20-year run with the Merrimack Valley Philharmonic Orchestra, numerous show pit orchestras, big bands, and freelance gigs with AF of M Local 173. He currently plays with several bands in The Villages, including The Savoys, Savoys Party Express Band, The Village All Star Band, and The Ambassadors. Ed lives with his wife, Linda, in The Villages.
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Trombone
Paul Holtzman
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Paul Holtzman was born in PA and has lived in Alabama, Florida, California, and New Jersey before moving to The Villages in 2016. He received a Bachelor of Music degree from the U of Miami, after which he served in the US Navy as lead trombone in the San Diego band. Following his discharge from service, he was active playing shows in several of the Miami Beach Hotels like the Fontainebleau and Eden Roc. Some of the star acts he backed up in the show bands include Jerry Lewis, Sammy Davis, Jr., and Judy Garland. He also played in the Miami area under name band leaders such as Ralph Flanagan, Art Mooney, Claude Thornhill, Ray Eberle, and Sam Donohue when they would travel south and use local musicians rather than travel with a complete band. He eventually was called to join the Charlie Spivak Big Band and traveled the country for several years. During that time he had the good fortune to meet and back up Eydie Gorme and other singing celebrities. When the Spivak band broke up, Paul returned to the U of Miami and earned a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering degree and took a job with RCA in NJ designing electronics for various satellite programs. He continued playing trombone with various bands, including a 16-piece big band which he directed and wrote arrangements for. He retired from RCA in 1989 and began to spend more time with big band music. From 2000 until moving back to FL he was featured soloist on trombone with the Jump City Jazz Orchestra, based in Philadelphia. Since moving to The Villages with his wife, Marge, Paul started a jazz octet called the "Shades of Blue," and has directed a 17-piece swing band which has performed for some charitable shows attended by large crowds. He also plays with the Villages Concert Band, The All Star Band, and The Savoys.
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Guitar
Tommy Rocco
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Tommy Rocco is a jazz guitarist from Long Island, New York. When he was twelve, Tommy was given his first guitar and he's been playing ever since. While living in the New York metropolitan area, he performed in a variety of musical venues from Jazz Trio to Pop Music. Tommy studied music in college and privately. He has toured and performed in the US, Europe, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and South American. When Tommy and his wife Roxanne decided to retire, The Villages was the perfect choice. "I had no idea there was this much great music in The Villages. It continues to be a wonderful journey." His family includes his wife, Roxanne, as well as his two sons, Thomas and Nicholas. Tommy and Roxanne live in the Village of Osceola Hills. Together, they've made many new and lasting friendships.
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Guitar
Gary Davis
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Keyboard and Piano
John Parris Frantz
John Parris Frantz is from Chicago and earned a Music Education/communications degree from Eastern Illinois University (BA) and a composition/arranging for film degree at Southern Illinois University (MA in Music/Cinema) where he studied jazz piano and film composition. John founded the firm, CinemaSonics and wrote and arranged music for PBS programs and local Chicago TV and radio commercials in the 1980s. His arrangements have been performed by the Chicago Jazz Members Big Band as well as other Midwest recording artists. John played piano in Chicago for weddings, private parties, and club work. He was first chair oboist for the D.L. Moody Church Orchestra and the Chicago Wind Quintet. Later he formed JPF Associates Communications, a public relations agency that he still heads today 30 years after its founding. He's also a former part-time adjunct music instructor for 25 years at Chicago's Francis W. Parker School, where he founded the school's symphonic winds and jazz band programs. John has lived in The Villages for 14 years where he performs with Top Shelf Jazz, The Moonlighters, The Ambassadors, and The Jam Factory. John is lead keyboardist at The Villages' Fairway Christian Church.
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Percussion
Rod Jacobs
Rod first appeared on stage at 8 years old, dancing the Charleston with his siblings, becoming top winners in Michigan's 4H contests. Four years later he repeated, drumming in a family Dixieland band. After 4 years as a U.S. Navy musician and a B.S. degree, he toured coast to coast with lounge acts performing rock operas, including "Jesus Christ Superstar." Road weary, he returned to the high seas with Holland America's "Round the World" tour, playing with the Guy Lombardo Band, followed by time with the Russ Morgan Orchestra. Since 2018, Rod's been keeping the beat in The Villages. Rod's wife, Mary, volunteers with the band and can often be seen selling tickets and decorating the ballroom.
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Vocalist
Dodie Fisher
Get ready to applaud the incredible Dodie Fisher, whose soulful voice and vibrant energy make every Savoys Show Band performance unforgettable! From her teenage debut singing in church and school choirs in Knoxville, TN, Dodie’s passion for music has shone brightly. After graduating, she brought her talents to the all-female band The Nineteenth Amendment as a vocalist and keyboardist, then captivated audiences for seven years with The White Brothers and Sister D, belting out Top 40 hits. Balancing a successful finance career, Dodie kept music as her joyful hobby, pouring her heart into every note. Since retiring to The Villages in 2013, Dodie and her husband, Alan, have delighted audiences at the Orange Blossom Opry, Morgan’s Music Junction, and various Villages clubs. As a cherished member of The Savoys for several years, Dodie’s dynamic performances—from jazz classics like Sweet Georgia Brown at the Jazz Festival to swing favorites—bring our community together in celebration.
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Media Specialist
Linda James
Linda James works behind the scenes of the Savoys Show Band and the Savoys Party Express Band, both led by her husband, Mike. As the media specialist and practical organizer, Linda keeps the band's online presence thriving. She manages the Facebook and YouTube pages while also designing and maintaining their website. She videos each performance and puts them all on the Band's YouTube channel. Beyond the digital realm, Linda and a dedicated team of volunteers transform the ballroom each month for the dances and shows, handle ticket sales, and organize 50/50 fundraisers to support the Wildwood Middle High School Band.
Linda graduated from Otterbein College in Westerville, Ohio, with degrees in Music Education, Elementary Education, and Piano Performance. Her passion for music led her to teach Music and Language Arts at the middle school level, offer piano lessons, and serve as an organist and pianist at various churches. Linda's creativity extends to the visual arts as well. Her artwork, including greeting cards, paintings, calendars, gifts and more, can be admired at art shows in the Villages or on her website. Together, Linda and Mike have built a beautiful family, raising their son, Michael, twin daughters, Kristin and Kelly, and cherishing their five grandchildren. Their beloved dog, Jazzy, completes the James household, adding an extra dose of love and liveliness to their lives.
Linda's website: www.lindajamesartist.com
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Volunteers
Our Volunteers are an important part of the band. They take reservations, sell tickets, greet guests and check them in, help guests find seats, sell 50/50 tickets, decorate the ballroom, run the lights, run the sound, set up equipment for the band, clear up after dance parties, manage the website, run the Facebook page, take videos and manage the YouTube channel, do publicity, and so much more!
Julie McGlone
Nancy Cheatham
Mary Jacobs
Linda Bowen and Melinda Mantor
Dianna Wensdofer
Alan Stegman
