You can see some information about the guest artists with whom we have had the pleasure of working in the past. Please visit their websites and consider contacting them about a possible VAR program in your local school.
AdamDouglasBrock.com
As a Vocalist, I have released 2 CD's so far, "From Me, To You" (2003) and "All Jazzed Up" (2007) I have been put into the vocal category of Jazz, but I sing with a large mix of styles mainly stemming from Black Gospel, Showtunes, Blues, and Standards. I have a B.A. in Theatre from Messiah College (Acting and Technical Emphasis) I am a performer in both Musical Theatre and Plays. I also do a great deal of design and technical work. I makeup, wig, costume, and set design. I painted for the Ohio Light Opera in both the Summer of 2005 and 2006. Because of the amount of painting I have done, both in studio work and theatrically, it has led me to the career of Interior Muralist and Faux Painter.
DonnaBaileyJazz.com
Described as being one of the most dynamic, soulful, entertaining vocalists on the jazz scene today, Donna Bailey creates a sophisticated, "coolness" to jazz standards, as well as with her own compositions. Her vocal interpretations, along with her captivating personality, have caused audiences to call her absolutely "spell-bounding".
Count Basie Orchestra
Born in Englewood, New Jersey, Clarence Banks started playing professionally in high school. He graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson University with a B.A. in Music Education. At present, Clarence is a member of the Count Basie Orchestra, and was the last musician to join the band while Mr. Basie was still alive. He is also active as a freelance musician when not touring with the Basie band. Mr. Banks is a member of the International Association for Jazz Education.
WayneBergeron.com
Wayne Bergeron is enjoying a career as one of the most active players on the Los Angeles scene. With studio dates, International touring, jazz concerts, guest soloist appearances and clinics he has no intention of slowing down.
DaveBoyerMinistries.com
Dave Boyer Ministries
Dave Boyer, a native of York, PA, now resides in Atlanta, GA. Boyer was well-known in his younger years as the Master of Ceremonies at the "500 Club" in Atlantic City, NJ. At the advice of his manager, he changed his name to Joey Stevens and success came quickly. He performed with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Milton Berle. He also appeared with Martin and Lewis on the Today Show when it originated from Atlantic City.
RickSimerly.com
Associate Professor of Music at Milligan College in Tennessee
East Tennessee might seem an unlikely place to give birth to a jazz musician, but those are the roots of acclaimed jazz trombonist Rick Simerly. Through his performances and recordings with a variety of bands and internationally renowned jazz musicians, Simerly has made a mark on the music scene as a recognized jazz performer. As an educator and clinician, he travels throughout the United States conducting clinics, workshops and performing concerts. He has been referred to as "...a rare combination of a world-class performer and teacher. He's an amazing player who can explain what he does and how he does it.
RalphLalama.com
Village Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and New York University and SUNY Purchase
"Being a part of the Visiting Artist Program at New Brighton was an exceptionally gratifying way to see the spirit of jazz in action. The kids were eager and willing to grasp the lofty goals put before them. They appreciate what it takes to grow in this music and they're not afraid to go for it. This speaks volumes about the importance of the Visiting Artist Program. Jazz is a national treasure, THE original American musical form, and it's up to us as musical patriots to cultivate and nurture it. Being from the Beaver Valley, I appreciate and am proud of the organization, the dedication and musical offerings of the Trinity Jazz Orchestra."
SarahMorrow.net
From Pickerington, Ohio, Ms. Morrow began playing trombone at age 12 in her school band. Discovered by Ray Charles, Ms. Morrow is the first female instrumentalist to become a member of his orchestra. After returning to Europe to tour with Grammy award-winning vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater in her big band, Sarah Morrow has taken Europe by storm. The release of her first album in 1999, Greenlight, won critical acclaim and launched her career as a prominent soloist, bandleader, and composer / arranger. Between tours, Ms. Morrow is proud to work as a clinician and guest soloist for junior high schools, high schools and universities around the world. Ms. Morrow is endorsed by the Getzen/Edwards Instrument Company and has been a prominent artist in their sales campaigns since 2000.
ChaseSanborn.com
University of Toronto - Department of Jazz Studies
"I recently spent a week with the Trinity Jazz Orchestra and the New Brighton High School Jazz Band, as part of their artist outreach program. It was a very rewarding week, musically and personally. The members of the TJO are passionate about jazz and jazz education, and the students and adult players were very receptive to everything I had to offer. The concerts were well-received, and the food was spectacular! I am looking forward to a return appearance!"
KarolinaStrassmayer.com
DIVA! and WDR Big Bands
Voted "Top Five Alto Saxophonist" in the 2004 Downbeat Readers' Poll, Karolina has obtained critical acclaim for her phenomenal musicianship since arriving in New York City from her native Austria. Karolina received her Masters degree in jazz performance from the Musikhochschule in Graz, Austria, as well as from the New School for Social Research in New York City.
