Forty Bands with Performances by Over 200 Musicians
Thank you event sponsors: Judith Anderson, RB & Zelma Bernd, Timothy Gee & Mary Kay Walker, Ralph & Marge Hafer, Jan Queal, In Memory of David Orwig.
Enjoy many styles of music including: Traditional Jazz, Contemporary Jazz, Swing, Big Band, Zydeco, Gypsy Jazz, Blues and more.
Barnhart-Midiri Quartet
Sponsored by: Ed Hartshorn, Thomas & Penny Brondum.
Bill Allred’s Classic Jazz Band
Sponsored by: Janice Eichler, Ralph & Marge Hafer, Peter & Betty Jane Van Houten.
In late 1989, Bill Allred’s Classic Jazz Band was born with a primary mission to find, research, and play some of the almost forgotten arrangements of the early reading Jazz Bands. What a Pandora’s Box! Their new sounds and combinations have resulted in some very unusual treatments of old and new musical material.
This group is loaded with interesting individuals including the leader Bill, whose father played jazz on the Mississippi steamboats. Bobby’s love of music started at age 3, when he was fascinated by the music from his jack-in-the-box.
WHAT TO EXPECT: High energy jazz and swing with a fresh twist.
Bill & Shelley & Westy
Sponsored by:
This smaller version of the Mammoth Lakes jazz camp instructors is the number one hardest-to-get-all at-the-same-time band. Not only are every one of these fine musicians in high demand, but we here in Sun Valley don’t have the luxury of summer vacation, which allows full time teachers to join up with us. (Even Ed Metz can’t be in two places at once!) When they get going, you’re in for the ride of your life.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Lightning banjo! Be prepared to laugh your stomach muscles sore when this team of clinicians takes the stage.
Blue Renditions
Sponsored by:
Blue Renditions features our 2006 Great Lady of Jazz, Sherri-Lynn Colby. Sherri, who hit the jazz scene at age 14 as the Sirene of the San Jaquin, has certainly grown up! The cabaret style Sherri adopts when singing with her own group allows her to establish intimate contact with her audience. Her maturity in life and music makes for sweet listening, with a bit of soul searching thrown in for good measure. Sherri’s husband Matt rounds out the group with a serious face…watch for the imp-grin that flits across occasionally!
WHAT TO EXPECT: Vocal jazz with synergistic instrumentation.
Blue Street Jazz Band
Sponsored By: James & Phyllis Alter, David Forbes & Betty Budke Orwig Trust, Jody Wiley, Bob & Beth Gunton, Cinda & Ray Vertrees, Pat & Perry Cantwell.
The Blue Street Jazz Band is one of the most innovative groups in traditional jazz. The band earned the reputation as The Bad Boys of Dixieland for their eclectic tastes in music. At any given Blue Street performance the audience is liable to hear various styles of music including: swing, Mardi Gras, folk song, marches, waltzes, Latin music, and hymns. Uniquely, Blue Street Jazz Band touts three music educators: Dave Ruffner, Rick Canfield, and Forrest Helmick.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Jet propelled traditional jazz with eclectic interlude set.
Bob Draga & Jason Wanner Quartet
Sponsored By: Nate & Lynda Bachman, David & Judie Stepner, John & Barbara Woodman, Shirley & LaMar Coon, Wayne & Wyn Clews.
Knowing Bob personally for over 20 years, there is much I can’t say here. However, I can tell you that he is a consummate performer and he is as versatile as they come.Look for him to show almost anyplace because his life passion is expressed each time he picks up his horn. Flying solo this year Mr. Draga will be featured as a guest artist with many of our bands. It is his delight to play for you and it will be your delight when you come to listen.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Smooth, sweet clarinet in Bob’s unmistakable style.
Boise Straight Ahead
Sponsored by:
Boise Straight Ahead was formed in 1997 and they love the big band sound and the uniquely American music that honors the many big bands that have played this music in the past. They have focused on playing community events in the Treasure Valley and have donated more than $55,000 in performance fees to local charities.
This all volunteer army is demonstrating at every opportunity their passion to keep this music alive and we all get to benefit from their hours of dedication. A must see if you love the Big Band sound.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Faithful renditions of the Big Band era. Great for listening or dancing just like you used to do!
Brady McKay & The Neurotypicals
Sponsored by: Nate & Lynda Bachman.
Bruce Innes & the Original Caste
Sponsored By: Jack & Bonnie Kirk.
A vibrant ensemble with a musical heritage that includes two gold records (Mr. Monday and the iconic hit One Tin Soldier), as well as other top ten and top forty hits in Canada, the U.S., Australia and Japan.
WHAT TO EXPECT: In a captivating show displaying their trademark, impeccable harmonies and compelling instrumentals, They weave a tapestry of original songs, soulful blues and classic hits into an evening of unforgettable music, laughter and song.
Celebrate America Show Corporation presents “In the Miller Mood”
Sponsored by: Janice Matthews / Merrill Lynch.
“In the Miller Mood” is a swinging musical show that captures the timeless sound and style of the music of Glen Miller adn the big band era. This toe tapping journey takes you back in time to the excitement of the 1940s when patriotism soared, and the airwaves were filled with timeless music.
Featuring the Stardust Singers, Stardust Dancers and the Larry Smith Orchestra.
Cornet Chop Suey
Sponsored By: Tom & Idagay Nicolino, Tony & Barbara West, Carol & Len Harlig, Emil & Barbara Capik and Bernie & Darlene Gratton, Ted & Lois Arnold.
The seven multi-talented musicians of Cornet Chop Suey will give you an exciting jazz and swing show every time, presented with gusto and enthusiasm.
With at least a century of songs in their repertoire, from the rags and Dixie of the early 1900s to contemporary jump, jazz and swing, their high-energy front line and powerful rhythm section produce an exciting new sound and approach that is a proven crowd pleaser.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Powerful two-trumpet front line reminiscent of the Lu Watters Yerba Buena aggregation
Dixieland All Star Big Band
Sponsored by:
High Sierra Jazz Band
Sponsored by: Bob & Ruth Lawson.
True to the music, this energetic group is led by our longtime friend Pieter Meijers. “Credentials” might be one word to describe this band, formed in 1976 in the small town of Three Rivers, California. The band has seen only a few changes in its long history. Of the original six, four are still acive members. They were rated by an American Rag reader’s poll as the second most popular traditional Jazz Band ever, just behind the Turk Murphy band. Ladies, just a warning here, be prepared to swoon when Earl lines up on you with that big silver horn.
WHAT TO EXPECT: True trad jazz in its finest form.
High Street
Sponsored By: Raymond & LaDonna Cappellini, Ralph & Marge Hafer, Maureen Schwendener & Lee Irish.
When attending one of High Street’s performances, be prepared…. for anything. You could even end up as part of the act, or with someone in your lap! In other words, these guys give it all and they give it every time.
You don’t want to miss a moment. It’s likely, however, that you may hear something written sometime after 1945. But hey, with all the fun you’ll be having and the energy in the room… even if you do care, you won’t notice.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Be prepared for anything!
Ivory&Gold®
Sponsored By: Anita Alf, Chuck & JoAnne Anderson, Ray Thorpe & Bobby Ann Toms.
Anne and Jeff Barnhart have credits that stretch across the U.S. and back again. Anne is a classically trained flautist and the organizer of our ever popular Classical Renegades set ,where we feature some of our other classically trained artists who have “crossed over to the jazz side.” Husband Jeff has a ragtime/stride piano background and he will bring you a charming and witty combination of ragtime to Broadway.
WHAT TO EXPECT: The perfect and unique blend of soulful and blistering jazz piano, flute and vocals.
Jerry Krahn Quartet
Sponsored By: Bob & Jackie Crowder.
Spirited, lyrical, smoky and jazz-edged guitar sounds are what you will hear from acoustic archtop guitarist Jerry Krahn. Jerry brings his unique no-amps acoustic guitars to the stage in the styles of early jazz guitar masters Eddie Lang and Django Reinhart.
His arrangements of 20’s and 30’s jazz and pop standards are delivered with a flair. Jerry carries these guitars into the 21st century with soulful versions of contemporary jazz, personal compositions and jazz-laced countrypolitan hits combining styles of Joe Pass, Chet Atkins, George Benson and Pat Metheny.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Swinging, intimate, rural, and sophisticated guitar sounds
Jim Fryer & the Usual Suspects
Sponsored by:
Not exactly the new kid on the block, Jim has played for heads of state around the world. Perhaps you caught one of his many recordings and were just looking for a place you could actually see him Titanless in a live performance. Well, he is here with the Usual Suspects and there is no doubt you will be asking for more when it’s over.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Jim and his gang playing his eclectic mix of eccentric songs. It will be good!
Joe Fos Trio
Sponsored by:
The Duchin Room has been a gathering place at Sun Valley since 1937. Stop by during the festival, and you will meet a mix of musicians and jazz fans from around the world. Many of Joe’s friends will drop in to play with the trio. Known by many as “Mr. Sun Valley” Joe is a fixture in the Duchin and he is also the MC of our Pianorama.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Beautifully flowing piano, tunes you know and love. Keep watch, anyone is likely to show up at any moment to jam with Joe.
Kings of Swing
Sponsored by:
Dressed in their tuxedos with white dinner jackets the Kings of Swing add an air of 1940s elegance and style to every performance. The Kings are a 17-piece dance band that originated in 1944.
The Kings of Swing give a tight, polished, professional performance that shows their love for the music.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Faith-full renditions of Glenn Miller, close your eyes and you will think he is right there with us.
Lisa Kelly & J. B. Scott Sextet
with David Steinmeyer and featuring Jeff Phillips
Sponsored by: Don & Juanita Robb.
Meschiya Lake & Dem Lil’ Big Horns
Sponsored By: Shirley & LaMar Coon, Peter & Becky Langhus, Bill Osborne, Jim & Patty Donelan, Glenn & Stephanie Crumrine.
A wonderful surprise for you, we first saw Meschiya singing on the streets of New Orleans. She is joined by an all star collection that will bring the house down. One familiar face in the crowd is Jason Jurzak, formerly of Blue Street. Ms. Lake is… captivating. Be prepared to have your heart out pulled right through your ears!
News Flash: Meschiya was honored as Best Female Performer, 2011 Big Easy Music Awards.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Pay no attention to the smoke rising off the dance floor.
Meyers All Star Big Band
Sponsored by:
Midiri All Star Big Band
Sponsored by:
Midiri Brothers Sextet
Sponsored By: Richard & Penny Weiss.
Sponsors at the Presbyterian Church of the Big Wood: Lynn & Sharon Bockemohle, Dr. & Mrs. Fred Becker, Evelyn Lee & Pat Murphy, Edie Middleton, Richard & Penny Weiss.
Talk about gifted brothers! Between the two of them, Joe and Paul play almost every musical instrument known to man. They feature the music of what most people consider to be the best small Jazz group of all time — The Benny Goodman Sextet.
You might also catch a Lionel Hampton tune or two. Tight arrangements and musical excellence make them a must see.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Goodman and Hampton ala Midiri.
Night Blooming Jazzmen
Sponsored By: Darlene Gilbert & Les Roper, KR Properties LLC, Bob & Rebecca Mitchell, Bill & Janet Strickland.
This is a very entertaining group that has been doing good things for a long time. Most of you know them well. If so, you will undoubtedly be found in the audience for another dose of humor and great tunes ala Chet.
If by chance you haven’t heard the Night Bloomers, the remedy is immediately at hand. Experience their Hymn Sing on Sunday morning at the Limelight Room. You’ll be glad you did.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Mugsy Spanier Jazz!
Paul Tillotson Trio
Sponsored By: David & Kay Merrick.
An Idaho home boy makes good. Paul and his band are a local favorite and will soon become one of yours, too. Once in a great while you run across an entertainer like this who will have you rolling on the floor in laughter one minute and weeping in your beer over memories the next.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Very entertaining. The unexpected… anything can happen.
PBJ (Paul Reid, Brian Casserly, & Jim Lawlor)
Sponsored by:
Here is a unique opportunity to see three guys that love to perform any place and have fun doing it. They put this trio together as much for their own enjoyment as for yours.
We are pleased to offer this special treat, but because of their busy schedules (Cornet Chop Suey & The Midiri Brothers) there is only one change to see them together, so don’t miss it!
WHAT TO EXPECT: To laugh! In addition; piano virtuosity, crooning vocals, and sizzling trumpet.
Pearl Django
Sponsored By: Johan & Didi Jansen, Ross & Martha Jennings, Leigh & Louise Rabel.
For full listening pleasure, hear Pearl Django in an intimate setting. They play the music of the legendary Django Reinhardt on guitar and Stephan Graspelli on violin. Reinhardt was a Gypsy musician who captivated Western Europe in the ’20s, ’30s, and ’40s, particularly the Hot Club of France Quintet. This band swings with strings.
WHAT TO EXPECT: European Jazz ala Django Reinhardt and Stephen Grappelli.
Pieter Meijers Quartet
Sponsored by: Bud Purdy.
Brady McKay
Sponsored By: Dan & Marlene Graham, Stanley & Janet Rishel, Nate & Lynda Bachman.
It’s always a rare and entertaining treat when we can see this great band come together for us here in Sun Valley. It’s a magical moment when Pieter and Brady get together and always a favorite.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Lyrical standards done the way you remember them.
Red Skunk Jipzee Swing
Sponsored by: KR Properties LLC, John & Barbara Woodman.
Truly an authentic vintage-style sound that draws from Django Reinhardt, 30′s European Jazz, and American roots traditions. The band just finished recording their third studio album, Hot and Haunting. The band transports you back in time.
WHAT TO EXPECT: From the moment the Skunks walk through your door donning fur coats and retro equipment, you will have entered a time period of authentic entertainment, and may not want to leave.
Sherri Colby’s Racket Makers & Friends
Sponsored by: Sally & Glen Dillon, David & Ursula Hinson.
Sherri Colby’s New Orleans Racket Makers Jazz Band boast some of the finest young musicians playing early jazz in new Orleans today. The Racket Makers’ music will have you dancing and swinging all night long… just take a listen and you will hear their love for the old songs and styles that invoke the spirit of New Orleans jazz. Inspired by their love for the tradition, the Racket Makers’ energy is infectious and the music goes right to the heart of the matter: Let’s have fun!
WHAT TO EXPECT: Classic New Orleans jazz reminiscent Preservation Hall.
Side Street Strutters Jazz Band
Sponsored by: Randy & Stephanie Klopfleisch, Larry & Dede Binder, Don & Juanita Robb.
Rob Verdi Sponsored by: KR Properties LLC
WHAT TO EXPECT: A most enjoyable, rewarding musical experience!
St. Louis Rivermen
Sponsored by: Wilson & Louise Williams.
This is an entertaining and very talented group. The “who’s who” line up of artists will have you laughing, dancing and remembering all at the same time. Then, just wait until they strike up the band! A staple when it comes to music, not to be missed.
WHAT TO EXPECT: To be wooed by a sousaphone. Bring your own tissues.
SVJJ Marching Band
Sponsored by:
Titan Hot 7
Sponsored By: Robert & Jackie Crowder, Barbara Kruse, Larry & Pat Kelley, Bob & Lynn Nicholson.
Born out of the “Jack Daniels Silver Cornet Band” this group had the metamorphosis of growing from five to seven, became an instant hit, and has stormed the halls of many notable haunts around the world. As an accomplished ensemble that captures the moment of magic, you’ll always come back for more. Look for any of these versatile “Titans” to appear as a guest or with other artists and you’ll know why they have won the hearts of so many.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Traditional jazz at its best with outstanding soloists and good humor.
Tom Hook & NOLA Rhythm & Blues
Sponsored By: Poo Sisters (Jane Munro, Rhonda Wong, Teala Percin, Lita Naillon), Ray & Lynda Prindle.
Tom Hook, the Original BIG Dog himself, of the Black Dogs Jazz Band fame. If a piano player could be a one man band, Tom would be your guy. You can never tell who may drop in to play, as you will see, it’s too much fun to pass up when you have the chance to take the stage with him. What’s Swamp music?
WHAT TO EXPECT: To laugh, cry, dance or bark all in the same hour.
Tom Rigney & Flambeau
Sponsored By: Ralph & Marge Hafer, Kneeland Gallery / Diane Kneeland, Bill & Marti Upton, Don & Ellen Easterbrook, Leigh & Louise Rabel, Hank & Francy Williams.
Tom Rigney, a fiery, electrifying violinist / composer, joins forces with some of the finest musicians on the San Francisco roots music scene to form Tom Rigney & Flambeau, a band that generates enough heat and energy to ignite a dance floor or lift an audience to its feet. Tom Rigney & Flambeau were voted Best Cajun / Zydeco Band of 2004 by the West Coast Blues Hall of Fame.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Cajun and zydeco two-steps, low-down blues, funky New Orleans grooves, and heartbreaking beautiful ballads and waltzes.
Uptown Lowdown
Sponsored by: David & Dorothy Anderson, Gale & Betty Maxey, William J. and Mary Alice Wilson.
Jazz is always having a rebirth, and each time it returns it takes a different form. Uptown Lowdown doesn’t play exactly like Turk Murphy, and Turk didn’t do it exactly like Lu Tatters. Lu in turn wasn’t a carbon copy of King Oliver. However, the line of succession is clearly there, covering eighty years of Jazz.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Traditional Jazz ala Oliver, Watters, Murphy and Barr.
We Three
Sponsored By: Marlin & Nancy Icenogle, Janice Matthews / Merrill Lynch.
If you have never been able to get in the door at a We Three set, it’s no surprise. While you never know what you’ll see (OR hear!) the entertainment is non-stop. This ever popular trio has more fun than should be allowed by law, and before you know it, they will have won your heart, too. Not to be missed.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Superb showmanship, hilarious antics, great music.
Yale Whiffenpoofs
Sponsored By: Tod & Barbara Hamachek, The Kershaw Family, David Forbes & Betty Budke Orwig Trust, Dave & Priscilla Wyckoff.
Every year, fourteen senior Yale men are selected to be in the Whiffenpoofs, the world’s oldest and best-known collegiate a cappella group. Founded in 1909, the Whiffs began as a senior quartet that met for weekly concerts at the famous Yale tavern.
Today, the group has become one of Yale’s most celebrated and hallowed traditions.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Charming young men crooning delightful harmonies.
Yve Evans & Company
Sponsored By: RRC Firearms, Ralph & Marge Hafer, Marlin & Nancy Icenogle, Diane Thach, Oliver & Bonnie Steele.
This irresistible lady can belt the blues one moment, and whisper and whine the next. Her impeccable vocal styling captures the imagination. Yve greets her website fans by saying, “Hello, I’m Yve Evans. Welcome to my world. Here in Evansworld we sing, dance and have a Great Time!” That about sums it up.
WHAT TO EXPECT: Moving vocals with a modern twist and a touch of humor.
