Jazz Combo Concert



Guest Artist: Bill Reder

On February 17, the Music Department was honored to host guest artist Bill Reder for the Jazz Combo Concert. Mr. Reder was a distinguished saxophonist in Las Vegas for more than 20 years. He performed for many famous artists including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Mickey Rooney, Liberace, Chuck Berry, and Jerry Lewis. He now teaches woodwinds at College of the Ozarks while also performing at the Showboat Branson Bell.

This was the first concert hosted by the Jazz Combo. The Jazz Combo is a small student ensemble that focuses on improvisation of various jazz styles. Generally, combo groups play tunes completely through first, then proceed by playing variations of the tunes through individual solos. Individual solos include piano, trumpet, woodwinds, bass, and drums. 

Dr. Kevin Powers

During the Jazz Combo Concert, a group of three students performed along with Dr. Kevin Powers and Mr. Reder. Dr. Powers, director for the College of the Ozarks' bands, played trumpet for the Jazz Combo Concert. Dr. Powers holds a masters degree in Trumpet performance and a doctorate degree in wind conducting.  

Bass Player: Chris White

Bassist Chris White is a senior computer science major. At an early age, Chris started learning music on the guitar, but at Dr. Power’s request, Chris learned the bass for Jazz Combo. 

Drummer: Taylor Dodson

The Combo’s drummer, Taylor Dodson, is a junior communication arts major with an emphasis in audio and radio. When he first joined the combo, Taylor originally played the guitar, but this semester as a change, he decided to perform on drums. 

Pianist: Caleb Vester

Senior, Caleb Vester, a double major in accounting and piano, performs the piano for not only Jazz Combo, but also in the Jazz Band. Caleb began his improvisational career with a hymnal from his church when he was 15. He continues his career by performing at venues such as Dobyns Dining Room at The Keeter Center.

During the concert, a variety of jazz styles were played including Samba, Swing, Ballads, Soul, and Funk. When asked to explain the experience performing with such an honored guest and distinguished musician, Chris said, “It was an honor to play with a professional musician like Mr. Reder. I learned a lot from listening to his phrasing and dynamic choices.” After the concert, Dr. Powers reflected, “The concert was a complete success. It was a lot of fun playing with Mr. Reder. The students did great and played like experienced jazz musicians.” The Jazz Combo will perform again in the Jazz Band Concert on April 29^th this semester.