United Jazz Ensemble
Directed by Rich Medd and Mike Moehlmann, this 18-piece band is composed of students from Iowa City High School and West High School in Iowa City.  Every May, this ensemble comes together to prepare for the Jazz Festival.  For 16 years, this band has immersed students in jazz over the summer and built a strong bond between the programs at the two schools.  This is one heck of a band!!

The Des Moines Big Band
Founded in 1959, this rehearsal band is keeping the flame of contemporary big band Jazz alive.  Its repertory includes bossa nova, fusion, Afro-Cuban and post-bop.  The band’s leader is Jim Oatts, trumpeter and recipient of the 2008 CJC Jazz Hall of Fame.  The other regular band members are Bill Bergren, Dave Kobberdahl, Al DeGooyer and Greg Warthan, trumpets; Paul Bridson, Tom Rankin, Jon Lewis, and Chad Thoreson, trombones; Jim Romain and Dave Bohl, alto saxes; Steve O’Brien and Bryan Schumacker, tenor saxes; John Morton, baritone sax; Jim Ekoff, percussion, Eric Krieger, bass and Jason Danielson, keyboards.

David Sanchez Quartet
Grammy-award winning tenor saxophonist, David Sánchez was born in San Juan. The rhythms of Puerto Rico, along with Cuban and Brazilian traditions, were among his early influences, followed by the playing of Coltrane, Charlie Parker, Dexter Gordon and Sonny Rollins.  After studying at the University of Puerto Rico, Sanchez moved to Rutgers University on a music scholarship.  Soon, he was gigging in NYC with the likes of Eddie Palmieri and Dizzy Gillespie.

Critic Howard Reich has observed: “Sanchez’s sound is never less than plush, his pitch is unerring, his rapid-fire playing is ravishing in its combination of speed, accuracy and utter evenness of tone. What results is far closer to the more daring postbop tradition than to standard Latin music.” The New York Times wrote:  “Mr. Sánchez plays with unforced authority and a searching, smoldering cadence.”  We know you will enjoy the David Sanchez Quartet, featuring Thelonious Monk competition winner, Lage Lund, on guitar, Orlando Le Fleming, on bass, and Henry Cole, on the drums.

Oatts and the Jazz Brothers
The group, made up of Jeff Oatts (drums), Travis Patton (fiddle), Dan Kristan (bass), JT Minor (guitar), Eric Oatts (tenor sax), and Chris Oatts (alto sax/flute), has been playing together for several years, alternating players and playing several diverse genres of music, and have participated in the Iowa City Jazz festival for the past three consecutive years. With jazz, funk, blues, rock, and classical backgrounds, the group has their own distinct style of playing, but always center around straight-ahead jazz as their main source of influence. You won't hear a tighter rhythm section and duel saxophones made up of young kids anywhere else around the state.

Koplant No
Koplant No is a forward-thinking ensemble that incorporates elements of jazz, electronic music, and progressive rock. Their influences include Radiohead, Telefon Tel Aviv, Beck, J Dilla, Garbage Factory and Happy Apple. The band features Brian Lewis Smith on trumpet and laptop, Drew Morton on bass, Rob Baner on drums and samples, and Joel Vanderheyden on saxophone.

John Shultz Organization with Betsy Hickok
The John Shultz Organization is an organ trio, cast in the style of the ground-breaking organ, guitar and drums ensembles of Jimmy Smith, Wes Montgomery, Jack McDuff and Joey DeFrancesco.. This time out, with John Shultz playing organ, Bob Dunn holding the guitar chair, and Paul Cunliffe on drums, the JSO is still calling on the classic selections that define the organ trio genre, as well as rethinking many familiar jazz and pop standards, always trying new approaches to keep the show fresh, engaging, and in this incarnation, featuring the vocal work of Betsy Hickok. Betsy has performed as a solo jazz vocalist and as a member of the Iowa City-based group "Too Much Yang." In 2006, she released her first solo jazz album with musicians Dan Knight, pianist, and Craig Dove, bassist. The Iowa City Press-Citizen said of her album, "Betsy Hickok boasts a cool, clearwater delivery, impeccable timing, and the knowing gift for phrasing that can only come from a long, loving immersion in classic jazz."

Diplomats of Solid Sound
This group performs originals, classy standards, soul shouters, and laid back infectious grooves in a style that revives Memphis-style soul for the 21st century. Enjoy the groove of the instrumental soul of the Diplomats. Featuring Doug Roberson, electric guitar, Paul Krezowik, drums, Nate Basinger, Hammond B3 organ, Eddie McKinley, tenor sax, Sarah Cram, Katharine Ruestow and Abbie Sawyer, vocals.

Orquesta Alto Maiz
Formed back in 1986, this 11-piece Latin jazz band is made-up of musicians living in the heartland of America. The group plays a plays a wide range of Latin musical styles, including merengue, samba, cha-cha-cha, salsa, calypso and boleros. The group is: Brent Sandy, trumpet, Bill Bergren, trumpet, Rich Medd, trombone, Bob Thompson, reeds, Jim Drier, percussion, Ed East, percussion, Paul Cunliffe, percussion, Dan Hummel, percussion, Steve Grismore, guitar, Dan Oline, bass, and Bob Washut, piano. Victor Mendoza recording artist/Berklee College Professor: "If your body doesn't move when you hear these guys, you should check your pulse to see if you're alive." Listen to one of the hottest bands in the Midwest or anywhere else for that matter.

Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue
Troy 'Trombone Shorty' Andrews, is the 23-year-old New Orleans favorite son whose talent as a horn player and showman continues to flower. He and his band, Orleans Avenue, delivers a blistering set of bold, exuberant and cutting edge jazz-rock fueled by funk and hip-hop." Trombone Shorty, who began as a bandleader at the tender age of six, is equally adept on trombone and trumpet. He has performed and soloed with notables such as Norah Jones, Diana Krall and rapper Juvenile.

He performs with his touring band, Orleans Avenue, which created its own tagline for its high-octane music-SupaFunkRock. The other members of the group are Mike Ballard on bass, Pete Murano on guitar, Joey Peebles on drums, Dwayne Williams on percussion, Dan Oestreicher on baritone sax, and Clarence Slaughter on tenor sax.

Lionel Loueke Trio
Experience the awe-inspiring technique of guitarist and vocalist, Lionel Loueke, who hales from West Africa and studied in Paris, Boston and Los Angeles. As a singer, he has a husky, sincere baritone and a melting falsetto that he uses to scat-sing along with his guitar solos. He’s also a full-fledged jazz guitarist, and uses both electronics–guitar synthesizer, looping devices–and African roots. Loueke has recorded with trumpeter Terence Blanchard, Wayne Shorter and Herbie Hancock. His trio features bassist Massimo Biolcati and drummer Ferenc Nemeth.

Northwest Jr. High Jazz Band
Northwest Jr. High Jazz Band is made up of 7th and 8th grade band members. The jazz band rehearses two days each week from 7:30 A.M. until 8:15 A.M. Over the years, the Northwest Jazz Bands have performed very well at the Southeast Iowa Bandmaster's Association Jazz Festival. The program has placed its emphasis on correct jazz style and improvisation. This band is under the very able direction of Jerry Zinn.

Midwest Jazz Collective
The Midwest Jazz Collective is a quintet that has its roots digging deep in the soil of the heartland, but its branches reaching high toward new creative horizons. Grounded in appreciation for the gifted masters of the past, the five young musicians in this true collaboration use inspiration from the rich history of jazz to both compose original works and paint new colors into standards that have stood the test of time. Bryan Carter (drums), Adam Kromelow (piano), Adam Larson (saxophone), Gabe Medd (trumpet), and Same Salinger (bass) join their talents, perspectives, and innovative voices to engage in musical conversations with each other and the audience. After hearing what this jazz collective has to say, you will have something to think about, something to talk about, and something to smile about. Talent definitely grows in the Midwest!

Slip Silo
Iowa City's Slip Silo is a developing collection of creative minds and excellent musicians. They courageously cross the boundaries of several genres, producing a live music experience that engages a listener on several levels. Though described as a rock band, Slip Silo's music contains hints of jazz, blues, reggae, and electro-fusion. Dedicated and passionate, Slip Silo is emerging as one of Iowa City's hippest bands. Drew Morton-bass, Justin LeDuc-drums, and Matt Logan-guitar.

Local Clamor
Local Clamor is a revolving group of Iowa musicians playing mostly original music. There have been several incarnations of this band, but the 2009 edition will include guitar star Billy LeGrand, the stellar Mike Conrad on keys, and exciting newcomer Brooke Peters (bass). The band is maintained by Paul Kresowik (drums).

Tornadoes
The Tornadoes bring classic electric blues, swing, jump and contemporary rockin' blues through guitar, harmonica, bass and drums. Their repertoire includes songs by such artists as Muddy Waters, Willie Dixon, Little Walter, Otis Rush, Freddie King, Louis Jordan, B.B. King, Little Charlie & the Nightcats, and the Fabulous Thunderbirds. Their outdoor appearances include the Friday Night Concert Series in Iowa City, the Iowa City Jazz Festival, the Des Moines Arts Fest, and Music in the Park in Coralville. They also play at a number of private functions around the area. Players (4): Dan Berkowitz- Bass; Bob Goffstein - Guitar; Rich Paterson - Drums; Jim Rossen - Harmonica.

Johnny Kilowatt
Johnny Kilowatt is guitarist and vocalist Jon Klinkowitz. He's been playing modern electric Blues on the Iowa City music scene for 18 years, starting as a founding member of the Blues Instigators. He's since played with other groups, including 2007 Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Patrick Hazell and Mother Blues. Klinkowitz served as the emcee of Iowa City's Monday Night Blues Jam for 12 years at various venues, mentoring many local musicians. Jon Klinkowitz -- guitar, vocals, Will Kalkhoff -- tenor sax, Nate Basinger – organ, Ed English – bass, and Tim Crumley -- drums.

Bob Levy and the J.O. Trio
Trumpeter and composer Bob Levy has more than forty recordings to his credit. He has performed with the likes of the Gunther Schuller Big Band, Bobby Shew, Eddie Daniels, Clark Terry, Stan Getz and John Medeski. His playing has received raves such as, "highly energized trumpet jazz", "able to switch styles with ease and comfortable in all of them", and "wonderfully and lovingly precise".

Levy with perform with the J.O.trio-Mark Martin, keyboard; Andy Merten, bass and vocals; and Mike Underwood, drums.

Chris Potter's Underground
It has been said that tenor saxophonist, Chris Potter’s technical prowess, robust tone and uncanny control are matched by a seemingly endless imagination, allowing him to build extended solos that never lose focus. Mr. Potter studied at the Manhattan School of Music and soon afterward began a long series of sideman activities with top names like Red Rodney, the Mingus Big Band, Paul Motian, Ray Brown, Jim Hall, James Moody, and Dave Douglas. Potter is considered one of the best saxophonists playing today, is the leader on nearly 40 records and in constant demand nationally and internationally.

At the festival, he performs with his Underground, which is known for the terrific chemistry it creates. The group includes guitarist Adam Rogers, keyboardist Craig Taborn and drummer Nate Smith.

Bill Frisell Quartet
Frisell, born in Baltimore and raised in Denver, studied at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. His major break came when guitarist Pat Methany was unable to make a recording session, and recommended Frisell to drummer Paul Motian. Since then, the fearless and adaptable Bill Frisell is one of the most sought-after guitar voices in contemporary music. Called the Clark Kent of electric guitar, he will perform with his quartet-with Ron Miles, trumpet, Tony Scherr, bass, and Rudy Royston, drums. Frisell is a jazz player, but he has a deep history in country, blues, and early rock and known for using an array of effects to create unique sounds from his instrument.

Dave Holland Quintet
Born in England in 1946, bassist/composer Holland came to the United States after Miles David heard him playing with the Bill Evans Trio in London. Miles was so impressed he got Holland an airplane ticket to come to NY to play with his group. Shortly afterward, Holland performed on the Davis classic Bitch’s Brew album and toured with Miles’ fusion group. Afterward, Holland recorded with Chick Corea and Anthony Braxton and many other jazz luminaries. Currently, Holland leads one of jazz’s most vibrant bands around- his all-star quintet- including tenor saxophonist Chris Potter, trombonist Robin Eubanks, vibraphonist Steve Nelson, and drummer Nate Smith.

Silver Swing Band
Silver Swing is a “subset” of the Iowa City/Johnson County Senior Center’s New Horizons Band. The Silver Swing includes 18 – 20 musicians who enjoy playing the music from the 30s and 40s. Silver Swing started in 1998 under the tutelage of graduate student Scott Lubaroff and has played for a multitude of events and celebrations over the past 9 years. The Iowa City New Horizons Band is one of about 120 bands in the U.S. and Canada for “chronologically gifted” adults. Don Coffman, UI Professor and Head of Music Education, directs the New Horizons Concert Band. In addition to the Silver Swing, there are several other small instrumental groups that have grown from the New Horizons Concert Band: Tempered Brass, Old Post Office Brass, Second Wind, and the Polka Dots. The Iowa City New Horizons Band was started in 1995 with 24 members and has grown to about 80 members. Additionally, there is an “entry level” band that includes about 30 members. Currently The Silver Swing Band is under the direction of Scott Morris.

The Washington Jazz Combo
The Washington Jazz Combo features the top students from the Washington High School jazz program. Under the coordination of Steve Shanley, the program consists of two large jazz ensembles, jazz theory/improvisation courses and jazz combos. The jazz bands participate annually in the IHSMA Jazz Band Festival, the UNI Tallcorn Jazz Festival, the Coe College Jazz Summit, the NEIBA Jazz Festival, jazz workshops at the University of Iowa and the Iowa Jazz Championships. The Revolutionists, the top large ensemble, have performed for sitting presidents, appeared at the UNI Crème de la Crème concert and were twice selected as the featured jazz band at the Iowa Bandmasters Association convention. The bands perform three concerts at Washington each year, and the annual fall concert includes guest artists to work and perform with the students. Madeline Young, alto sax, Jack Kohn, trumpet, Toby Ziemer, trombone, Jon Snell, piano, Ian Draves, bass and Michael Olson, drums.

Executive Lunch
Executive Lunch is making its second appearance on the college stage at this year’s festival. Formed in 2007 at the University of Northern Iowa, this unique trio has since played numerous concerts, bringing with it a special brand of music that continues to catch the attention of audiences across the state. Playing without a bass or chording instrument, the group relies on energetic melodic figures and extensive improvisation to create exciting and innovative performances. Executive Lunch is: Evan Smith – Reeds, Mike Conrad-Trombone, and Jacob Davis – Drums.

The Uniphonics
Imagine a sound that consolidates a plethora of musical styles into a tightly wound booty groove. Innovative jazz-funk-latin infused hip-hop combined with MC Animosity’s passionate lyrics creates a dance party atmosphere for everyone. Expect an interactive high energy performance that breaks the barrier between the musicians and audience. Join the rest of The Uniphonics Family at www.myspace.com/theuniphonics and become a part of the show. The Uniphonics include: Derek Thorn "MC Animosity" (vocals), Forrest Heusinkveld (drums), Craig Heidgerken (guitar), Ryan Casteel (bass), and Ben Pierce (saxophone).

Dave Rezek’s Alpha State Agents
Energy, intellect, creativity, imagination, passion and collaboration are on full display when the Alpha State Agents assemble. The music is penned and played by those who went through the studios of Bob Brookmeyer, John McNeil, Danilo Perez, George Garzone, and Jerry Bergonzi, among others; those with rich, professional musical experiences from New York to Boston and throughout the entire Midwest; those whose playground is the alpha state of mind, where anything is possible. Agents: Dave Rezek (Trumpet/Flugelhorn), Chris Steinke (Alto/Soprano Saxophones), John McLaggan (Tenor/Soprano Saxophones), Jason Danielson (Piano), Scott Barnum (Bass), John Kizilarmut (drums/percussion).

the 3x5
The 3x5 is an inventive improvising trio based out of Ames, IA. The book is comprised of mostly original material, augmented by an assortment of covers from such artistic luminaries as Lionel Richie, George Michael, A-Ha, New Edition, and Halloween Alaska. The conspicuous absence of a bassist provides plenty of creative approaches to composition. Group interplay and nuance are hallmarks of The 3x5. Their self-titled was released in 2009. mike giles -- alto saxophone & sampler seth hedquist -- electric guitar--joel gettys – drums.