FREE CONCERT! Mike Vax (Scottsdale)

About the Event

To say that Mike Vax is the consummate trumpet player is an understatement. He’s played lead and solo trumpet with the Stan Kenton Orchestra, the Clark Terry Big Bad Band, and the U.S. Navy Show Band.

His performing and recording credits include collaborations with Art Pepper, Gene Krupa, Freddy Hubbard, Don Ellis, Louie Bellson, and Joe Williams, among others. He has also appeared as a guest lead trumpet and soloist with symphony pops orchestras across the United States and in Europe. Mike has performed on more than 80 albums, including 25 under his own name.

Mike lends his time and talent to events that educate and promote jazz and big band music. As the founder of Friends of Big Band Jazz, he provides scholarships to jazz camps, funds jazz programs in schools, and supports programs that help musicians in need. He also directs the Prescott Jazz Summit.

Currently, he leads The Stan Kenton Legacy Orchestra, The Mike Vax Big Band, TRPTS (Trumpets), The Mike Vax-Ron Romm Collaboration, and the Mike Vax Quartet, Quintet and Sextet.

Tony Vacca - reeds (Chicago/ Phoenix) A local favorite bringing versatility and serious swing to the best bands in town.

Howard Alden - guitar (Phoenix/New York) Concord Jazz recording artist and master of the seven string guitar. He continues to tour all over the world as well as perform locally.

Kenny French -drums (Phoenix) Began his musical career playing with the US Air Force band. He can be found playing with the Michael Collins trio.

Rob Wren – bass (Phoenix) Rob shares the stage with the best of the best, nationally and locally. Known for his versatility and groove.