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In the News: Mark Rivera, Saxophonist for Billy Joel, to appear May 14 in Palm Beach.

Jodie Wagner
Palm Beach Daily News
May 12, 2026, 3:36 p.m. ET
  • Musician Mark Rivera will hold a book signing for his memoir, “Sideman: In Pursuit of the Next Gig” on May 14 in Palm Beach.
  • The event will take place at Raptis Rare Books, followed by a free live performance at Churchill Cigar Company. Reservations are required for both events.
  • Rivera is known for his work as a saxophonist for Billy Joel and musical director for Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band.

Mark Rivera, a longtime musician who has performed with major rock acts, will appear May 14 at Raptis Rare Books in Palm Beach for a book-signing tied to the release of his memoir, “Sideman: In Pursuit of the Next Gig.”

The event will run from 6 to 8 p.m. at the store, 329 Worth Ave. in Via Roma.

Rivera is best known as a longtime saxophonist for Billy Joel and as musical director for Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band. Over the course of his career, he has also worked with Elton John, Hall & Oates, Peter Gabriel, John Lennon, Foreigner, Simon & Garfunkel, Tony Bennett, Peter Frampton and Paul McCartney.

In the memoir, Rivera reflects on life as a sideman and the experiences of building a career performing with some of rock music’s most recognizable acts, according to advance publicity about his appearance. The book includes personal stories from his decades in the music industry and life on tour.

Guests attending the event will have the opportunity to meet Rivera and receive a signed copy of his book. Admission is free, though advance tickets are required through eventbrite.com. For tickets, search “Book Signing with Mark Rivera at Raptis Rare Books” on the website.

Following the signing, Rivera is scheduled to perform live beginning at 8 p.m. at Churchill Cigar Company, 329 Worth Avenue, Suite 6. Admission is free, but an advance reservation is required through eventbrite.com. For tickets, search “Mark Rivera Live Performance at Churchill Cigar Company.”

Matthew and Adrienne Raptis opened the store in 2016 at 226 Worth Ave. before moving it down the street in 2021.

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