Career
He was the creator and director of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Jazz Ensemble from 1974 until 1996. Prior to that, he worked as the drummer and percussionist at the Sands Hotel, accompanying such notable performers as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis, Junior., Patti Page, Lena Horne, Steve Lawrence, Eydie Gorme, Joe Williams, Marlena Shaw and Joey Bishop among many others Born in Denver, Frank’s interest in music started at a young age.
Inspired by his accordion-playing older brother Vince, at age 8, Frank began the drum lessons that led to his becoming, at 17, a percussionist with the Denver Symphony Orchestra, where he played for the next 15 years.
During that time, Frank earned his Master’s degree in Music Education and taught a course in Jazz at Denver University. In 1964, Frank was hired for what he called “the best job in the world”, percussionist for the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas, where he played for star entertainers such as Frank Sinatra and the “Rat Pack.” After 10 years, he joined the faculty of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and over the next 22 years, Frank led the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Jazz Ensemble to international stature, traveling world-wide, capturing multiple awards, and releasing 12 albums and CDs.
He continued performing at the Sands until 1988. Though a live performer at the Sands for many years, Frank Gagliardi is probably best remembered for his work with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Jazz Ensemble.
Under his direction, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas Jazz Ensemble was highly acclaimed internationally performing regularly in such places as Japan, East Germany, and Peru.
At University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Frank would not have had such a distinguished jazz program were it not for his passion for the music and his dedication to the students, many of whom looked to him for guidance beyond the classroom. He was always there to help, whether it was with a wise word, or a few dollars for rent or groceries.