Born in 1984, Dave Bennett—of Waterford Michigan—began on clarinet at age 10 and taught himself how to play Goodman songs by ear, listening to records given to him by his grandfather. At age 12 Dave was invited to the bandstand of the famous Sweet Basil jazz club in New York to sit in with trumpet legend Doc Cheatham. By age 14 Dave started touring all over America, twenty or thirty times a year, as a member of Saginaw's popular "New Reformation Dixieland Band." All the while he practised six hours a day and kept studying the music of his greatest hero—Benny Goodman. A tape of his playing sent to Pete Fountain resulted in an un-prompted telephone call to Dave by Pete, encouraging this remarkable young talent that he was "on the right track."

At age 17 Bennett was selected as one of two high school students from a field of 600, to have the opportunity to perform as a Special Guest Soloist with The Count Basie Orchestra.

In November 2003, Dave Bennett premiered his new "Tribute to Benny Goodman" Septet at Windsor's Capitol Theatre. Bennett said at the concert, "I've been waiting nine years for this opportunity...and it is a dream that has finally come true." Bennett's combo includes the leading American bassist Paul Keller as Music Director.

Bennett's mature stage presence, knowledge of the dates and details of Goodman recordings, and his penchant for wire-rim glasses, spats and double-breasted suits, will transport listeners back to the time and mood of Benny Goodman's Swing Era.