ContacttheBand
FanTestimonial
The Route 66 Jazz Orchestra is a 20-piece jazz band dedicated to the preservation and promotion of "Big Band" jazz through performance, education and community involvement. Founded in 1969 by Dr. Ron Stillwell as the Meramec Jazz Lab Band, Route 66 Jazz continues to this day to act as "Jazz Ambassadors" for the community.
Led by retired music educator Bob Boedges of Normandy and Collinsville High Schools, this incredible group of dedicated musicians come from all walks of life, including business professionals, music
AboutRoute66
"When hearing the Route 66 Jazz Orchestra it's like being in a time machine. You're taken back to a time when a large group of musicians and vocalists would get together and make something special happen."
John Hoffmann - Ex-Alderman, Journalist
(314) 518-6490
educators both active and retired, music students, and music professionals, bound together by their passion for Big Band music and the common desire to spread the word that jazz music is alive and well.
After more than 40 years, the band continues to thrive, with performances at festivals, community events, conferences and theaters across the region.
Sheldon Concert Hall 2013
Route 66 Jazz Orchestra
SAXES
Jason Kaminsky, alto
Craig Todd, alto
Mike Fernandez, tenor
Ben McDavid, tenor
Matt Schultz, bari
TRUMPETS
Fred Middlekauff
Bill Simpson
Chris Dressler
Kurt Schmid
John Kinneson
TROMBONES
Jeremiah Burcher
Dave Meseth
Neil Strebel
Andy Schiefelbein
RHYTHM SECTION
Mike Sissin, piano
Larry Gregory, guitar
Charles Clements, bass
Clancy Newell, drums
VOCALISTS
Valerie Tichacek
Ron Wilkinson
Black Cat Theatre 2011
Listen! Route 66 Jazz Orchestra Preview