DAVID BODE

Biography

David Bode is a New Orleans-born saxophonist, composer, arranger, and educator whose career embodies the vibrant musical traditions of his hometown. Captivated by the rhythms of Mardi Gras parades as a child, Bode began his musical journey on clarinet in elementary school before discovering his lifelong passion for the saxophone. He pursued formal studies at Loyola University New Orleans and the University of New Orleans, learning from some of the city’s most respected jazz educators. Bode’s musical upbringing was shaped by the eclectic sounds of New Orleans, from street parades and funk to classical and R&B, as well as the city’s storied jazz heritage.

After university, Bode broadened his horizons by living and performing abroad in China and St. Lucia, experiences that deepened his appreciation for the unique sounds of New Orleans. Upon returning home in 2012, he immersed himself in the local scene, performing with groups such as One Love Brass Band, Doombalaya, and the New Leviathan Oriental Foxtrot Orchestra. In 2025, Bode released his debut album as a leader, 'Good Hang,' a dynamic big band recording that blends modern jazz, classic standards, pop, rock, and original compositions. The album, recorded at the historic Marigny Studios, stands as a testament to Bode’s commitment to both honoring and expanding the New Orleans jazz tradition.

Bode’s style is marked by a forward-looking approach to big band jazz, incorporating global influences and a kaleidoscopic sense of genre. His work as a performer, arranger, and educator has made him a respected figure in the New Orleans music community, and his dedication to the city’s musical legacy is evident in both his recordings and his collaborations with a wide range of ensembles.

Fun Facts

• David Bode’s debut album, 'Good Hang,' was released exactly 20 years after Hurricane Katrina, a deliberate nod to the resilience of New Orleans and its musical community.
• He has lived and performed abroad in both China and St. Lucia, experiences that influenced his global approach to jazz.
• Bode’s recording studio for 'Good Hang,' Marigny Studios, is housed in a building that was once Luthjens’ Dance Hall, a historic site for New Orleans musicians in the 1960s and 70s.
• He is also a vocalist and music educator, in addition to being a multi-instrumentalist specializing in saxophone and flute.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Tony Dagradi - Jazz saxophonist and educator; taught Bode at Loyola University New Orleans (Formal instruction and ensemble coaching) [University years (dates not specified)]
• Johnny Vidacovich - Renowned New Orleans drummer and educator; provided mentorship at University of New Orleans (Formal instruction) [University years (dates not specified)]
• Dr. Joseph Hebert - Music educator at Loyola University New Orleans; instrumental in Bode’s formal training (Formal instruction) [University years (dates not specified)]
• Matt Lemmler - Pianist and educator; provided instruction and ensemble experience (Formal instruction) [University years (dates not specified)]
• John Mahoney - Composer and educator at Loyola University New Orleans (Formal instruction) [University years (dates not specified)]
• Ed Petersen - Saxophonist and educator at University of New Orleans (Formal instruction) [University years (dates not specified)]
• Steve Masakowski - Guitarist and educator at University of New Orleans (Formal instruction) [University years (dates not specified)]
• Victor Atkins - Pianist and educator at University of New Orleans (Formal instruction) [University years (dates not specified)]
• Brian Seeger - Guitarist and educator at University of New Orleans (Formal instruction) [University years (dates not specified)]

Key Collaborators

• One Love Brass Band - Band member; performed and recorded with this New Orleans brass band (Live performances, recordings (specific albums not listed)) [2012–present]
• Doombalaya - Band member; performed and recorded with this genre-blending New Orleans ensemble (Live performances, recordings (specific albums not listed)) [2012–present]
• New Leviathan Oriental Foxtrot Orchestra - Performer and arranger; worked on live silent film score productions and performances (Live performances, silent film score) [2012–present]
• Good Hang Big Band - Bandleader and arranger; led a 19-piece ensemble for debut album (Album: Good Hang (2025)) [2025]
• Daniel Meinecke - Pianist in Good Hang Big Band; featured soloist (Good Hang (2025)) [2025]
• Lori LaPatka - Alto/soprano saxophonist in Good Hang Big Band (Good Hang (2025)) [2025]
• Ari Kohn - Tenor saxophonist/flutist in Good Hang Big Band (Good Hang (2025)) [2025]
• Byron Asher - Tenor saxophonist/clarinetist in Good Hang Big Band (Good Hang (2025)) [2025]
• Thad Scott - Baritone saxophonist/flutist in Good Hang Big Band (Good Hang (2025)) [2025]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Syeeda’s Song Flute (Good Hang)
2. Libertango (Good Hang)
3. Happy People (Good Hang)
4. Lover, You Should’ve Come Over (Good Hang)
5. Happy People (Happy People)
6. Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most (Good Hang)
7. Cold Train Funk (Good Hang)
8. Monkey Puzzle (Good Hang)
9. Dear Prudence / Don’t Let Me Down (Good Hang)
10. Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most (Spring Can Really Hang You Up the Most)

External Links

• Spotify