Franco Abitabile is the sound engineer for the Velvet Tones Big Band. Franco has had a passion for music but more a fascination with sound manipulation in mixing for many years, including recreating guitar tones and effects from pop/rock music.

While attending some Electric Jam events at the Jack Russell pub in Marston, Oxford, Franco got connected  with other musicians including The VT’s “Grandfather”, Roy Midwinter. Franco has done sound reinforcement for the vocal trio Sisters Of Swing, who were later invited to sing with the Velvet Tones, hence Franco’s connection with the big band. During this time Franco’s interest in jazz music has grown.  He says: “It’s wonderful and I feel privileged doing the sound, mingling and making friends on the way!