The musicians derive their influences from many different styles, including Arabic, Persian, Turkish, folk, jazz, classical, rock and improvisational music. The music of Middle-Earth Ensemble represents a unique fusion and blending to create their original sound.

Robert Rotzler - Mandolin, Violin
Robert has studied classical violin since 1970, and has performed solo in Europe, Central America and the West Coast. He has performed with many symphony orchestras including the National Symphony of Mexico, Symphonia de Theatro Nacional (Costa Rica) and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Later taking up the mandolin, he has played locally with many bands and artists, including Rockola, Hera's Olive, Travel Agents, Hot Monkey Love, Cindy Lee Berryhill.

Anthony Sarain - Saxophone, Flute
Anthony has been making music on a variety of wind instruments for over 20 years. Inspired by various jazz artists such as John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Charlie Parker, Anthony has pursued music in as many forms as possible, working to find the beauty in each genre. Improvising is his favorite part of music, the instantaneous creation of one's thoughts. Anthony believes that music is an important component to self knowledge.

Frank Lazzaro - Dumbek, Percussion
Frank has studied Middle Eastern and African drumming for over 15 years, and has played for many dancers and groups. He produces monthly showcases at Claire de Lune coffeehouse, where he has accompanied John Bilezikjian and others. Frank teaches drumming in weekly lessons, plays regularly for dance classes, and has an instructional CD available. He is also a member of the world beat group Damaru, and the rock band, Travel Agents.

Andy Villas-Boas - Bass Guitar, Vocals
Originally from Brazil, and playing bass and guitar professionally for over 20 years, Andy brings an exotic, Latin sound to the band with his unique sound and vocalizing. He is the former lead vocalist for Super Sonic Samba School, played in the middle-eastern fusion band Nine Wind, and also has a flourishing solo career as a performing and recording artist.

Micheal Mesleh - Oud, Guitar, Sitar
Michael has been playing music since he was 8 years old, having studied on a wide variety of instruments. Being primarily an improviser his primary influences since youth have been Arabic music, Indian music, and jazz. While Michael has played in many electric rock, funk, and jazz bands since growing up in Chicago, he prefers to play acoustic music and has been doing so in San Diego for quite a few years with various other improvisational musicians.

You can find out more about the Middle Earth Ensemble on their website.

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