Dave
Compton (Keyboards, Harmonica, Guitar)
Dave Compton was destined to march into music. Dave's grandfather played
sousaphone for John Phillips Sousa, his parents had lots of music in
the house, and "I grew up on a stack of 78s my parents had."
Obviously, music has always been a part of Dave's life. He began playing
records at the tender age of two, and was a regular singer with the
record player at three.
Dave's mom bought an old upright piano when he was five and after his record player, it was his first love. It was a fixture in Dave's room until he was fifteen and the family moved to California, and the piano had to stay behind. Craving to play music, Dave decided he wanted to learn to play guitar. His mom, as smart as mothers are, bought his first guitar with green stamps. "It was hideous, but if I wanted a nicer one I had to learn to play it, and play it well."
The first dollar Dave ever made in music was playing Bass at a 7th grade dance. Little did he know that this would be his life, making money while making music. Dave musically entertained at the Hilton's Room at the Top for 19 years until it changed to the Cabana Club, which he has played for three years.
Surprisingly, of the 15 instruments Dave plays, he really has no favorite. "It depends on what I'm doing at the time. My favorites are what people enjoy hearing the most," said Dave. "Although, I'm developing a love affair with my harmonica – it's my most recent flame."
Dave loves to play solos in which he can express himself. He credits the Harmonicats, Henry Mancini, Dave Grisman, Nancy Wilson, and Flim & The B.B.'s for influencing his musical career. Although music is where Dave makes his living, it is so much more to him. It is a means of expression, a way to communicate with others, a great way to serve his community.
At the same time has clothed, fed, and housed his family with music, which is no small task. Dave and his wife Kay have a blended family and are the parents of 13 children, the youngest of which is 14. Dave is also an avid model railroad enthusiast.
In his spare time, he plays keyboards and harmonica for Enoch Train. "The level of musicianship in the group is amazing. The intricacy of the arrangements and the challenge of keeping up with such fabulous musicians is a pleasure."
Dave also feels strongly about the music the group performs. "The music of Enoch Train is consecrated to the Lord." And, it wouldn't be the same without the addition of Dave Compton.
