Biography
Born in Sherborn, Massachusetts, USA, Laronga began trumpet studies during childhood and pursued rigorous training that led to a Master’s degree in Jazz Performance from the Manhattan School of Music plus a Bachelor’s degree in Trumpet Performance and Music Business from the University of Massachusetts, Lowell. Private study included lessons with Lew Soloff and Byron Stripling. Her performing résumé encompasses jazz and pop figures such as Dee Dee Bridgewater, Buddy DeFranco, Eliane Elias, Connie Francis, Aretha Franklin, Johnny Mathis, Hilton Ruiz and Mark Wahlberg. She is featured on Sketches Of Spain, a recording made by Dave Liebman with the Manhattan School Of Music Jazz Orchestra. As a member of the DIVA big band, where she serves as a featured soloist, she has appeared in numerous concerts and on multiple recordings; she also belongs to the DIVA-derived quintet Five Play, which joined Marlene VerPlanck on the 2003 album It’s How You Play The Game.
Laronga functions reliably in section roles yet distinguishes herself as a soloist through inventive phrasing and technical command. While her work remains largely contemporary, she explores earlier styles with her own ensemble, the Bayou Bump. Beyond the stage she maintains an active teaching schedule, offering private instruction as well as faculty positions at The United Nations International School in New York and The New York Pops ‘Salute To Music’ programme.
Laronga functions reliably in section roles yet distinguishes herself as a soloist through inventive phrasing and technical command. While her work remains largely contemporary, she explores earlier styles with her own ensemble, the Bayou Bump. Beyond the stage she maintains an active teaching schedule, offering private instruction as well as faculty positions at The United Nations International School in New York and The New York Pops ‘Salute To Music’ programme.
Albums