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

rboedges@gmail.com

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