Thornapple Jazz Orchestra

The County Seat Lounge is proud to host the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra on the following Monday evenings, from 7:30 to 9pm:  September 13, October 11, November 8, December 13

Thornapple Jazz Orchestra

Formerly Known as Les Jazz

Les Jazz Big Band was established in 1987, by Joe LaJoye, to provide an opportunity for adult instrumentalists, in and around Hastings, to play big band jazz.  Over the years the group has performed for various community events and has come to be known as a first call ensemble for organizations doing charity functions.

The ensemble recently underwent a name change to reflect the local of their membership and following.  The name is now the Thornapple Jazz Orchestra.

The band draws from the libraries of many of the great big bands such as Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw and many more.  The adults who play in the band come from many occupations; but, share a common love for the music.  Additionally, the band includes a generous portion of waltz and Latin music to round out the repertoire to meet the tastes of all dancers and listeners.

Past performances include numerous appearances at Hastings Summerfest, Red Cross Charity Ball, CMS Cabaret, HHS Choral Jazz Weekend, HHS Jazz Concerts, Thornapple Arts Council Art Auction and, of course, appearances every year at the Thornapple Jazz Festival.

Members include:

Joan Schroeder, Judy Martin, Jerry Mueller, Jeff Kacszmarsyk, Nick Biesbrock, Craig Holley, and Carol Svihl on Saxophone

Steve Hoke, Lynn McConnell, Jeff Buehl, Don Myers, Craig Schroeder, and Scott Evans on Trombone

Bob Evans, Mike Smith, Doug Acker, Troy Macqueen, Rich Moore on Trumpet

Forrest Evans, Piano

Steve Evans and Don Cheeseman on Bass

Tom Alderson on Drums