Since moving to NYC in 2005, Ark Ovrutski has had a busy career free-lancing with many of the great jazz musicians from many generations, including: James Spaulding, Curtis Fuller, Carmen Lundy, Gregory Porter, Steve Williams, Larry Willis, Javon Jackson,Duduka da Fonseca, Cynthia Scott, Jim Rotondi, and many others. Ark’s most significant original contributions in jazz are his three recordings as a leader and composer, “Sounds of Brasil” (self-released, 2010), “44:33” (Zoho, 2014) and “Intersection” (Origin, 2016). These three recordings are consisted basically of Ark’s remarkable original compositions.  The Ark Ovrutski Quintet “Sounds of Brazil” (2010) features Grammy winning drummer Duduka Da Fonseca, piano player Helio Alves and two sax players Craig Handy and Jorge Continentino. SOB performed a unique blend jazz improvisation, Brazilian grooves, original compositions with contemporary arrangements. This album was highly estimated (quotes from reviewies) and Ark Ovrutski Quintet was invited to perform with this program to Dizzi Coca Cola jazz at JALC in NYC in April 2011.  Ark’s album “44:33” (2014) features Michael Dease and Ulysses Owens and was released on the recording label ZOHO. This CD was nominated by DOWNBEAT in the section PLAYERS in June 2014 and got a lot of positive feedback including jazz major media. This was confirmed by several articles in the famous jazz magazines besides “Downbeat” - “New York City Jazz Record.”, “All about jazz”, “Elmore”,”Cadence” “Latin Jazz Network” etc.  Ark’s latest venture is “Intersection” featuring Michael Dease and Duduka Da Fonseca issued on the recording label ORIGIN. Ark’s composition “Bolero” from this album “Intersection” was awarded by International Society of Jazz Composers and Arrangers.  Ark’s albums regularly receive air play on radio stations and included in Jazzweek TOP 70.  Ark holds degree of Doctor of Musical Art in Jazz Performance from the University of Illinois and has Masters of Music in Jazz Performance from Rutgers University.  More information on: www.arkovrutski.com