Rhythm, swing, blues, humor, and innovation are just a few words one can use to describe the magical musical essence behind Erica von Kleist and DeWitt Fleming Jr,’s powerful duo “Sax & Taps”. Having honed their talents both on the east coast and abroad, these two dynamos met in Whitefish, Montana through their collaborations with Alpine Theatre Project. Erica and DeWitt connected with studio engineering legend Toby Scott (Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr) and quite spontaneously recorded their first demo tracks. 

An actor, dancer, singer and drummer, DeWitt Fleming Jr. has collaborated with jazz luminaries such as Bobby McFerrin, Wynton Marsalis, and Wycliffe Gordon. As a performer DeWitt has appeared in numerous Off-Broadway productions, several commercials and as a touring member of Riverdance. Originally from D.C, DeWitt has developed limitless rhythmic and improvisational abilities which has made him an incredibly unique talent in the jazz world, Broadway, and film. He’s also developed his own brand of DeW It Right Tap Mics for tap shoes which are currently being used by companies around the country.

A native of Connecticut, Erica von Kleist moved to Whitefish after developing an extensive career in New York, having toured and recorded with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra, Chris Potter and Rufus Reid among others. As a saxophonist, flautist and piccoloist, Erica regularly ventures from her home in Montana to perform and teach woodwinds and jazz theory, most recently as a clinician for the Carnegie Hall, Juilliard School, UNC Greensboro, and Drake University.

“Sax & Taps” features the effortless musical connection between two experienced performers, and spans repertoire from the jazz age to today’s most popular songs. All music is artfully arranged and manipulated by DeWitt and Erica, focusing on groove, soul, melodic and rhythmic precision while leaving room for the infinite possibilities of improvisational nuance and humor. “Sax & Taps” is an unexpected and brilliant addition to any jazz festival line-up or venue, and will carry all audiences on a suspenseful, original musical journey.