Jass Band Bio:
The Original Wildcat Jass Band, comprised of six of the finest musicians in Arizona, offers traditional New Orleans and Chicago jazz, performed in a spirit and style that is true to its musical roots and wildly popular with audiences around the southwest United States.
Jason Carder, Trumpet
A doctoral student at the University of Arizona, Jason holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Studio Music from the University of Miami. Jason's professional experience includes tours with the bands of Ray Charles, Woody Herman, Maynard Ferguson, Paul Anka, and K.C. and the Sunshine Band, and contributions to over seventy albums, with artists ranging from Maria Schneider to Arturo Sandoval.
Rob Boone, Trombone
A professional musician since age 16, Rob has performed on trombone with The Moody Blues, Ray Charles, Sammy Davis Jr., and others. He has worked as a freelance player in Los Angeles, Visiting Lecturer and Acting Director of Jazz Studies at U of A, and Professor of Trombone at Mesa Community College.
Ray Templin, Drums and Piano
Ray has gained acclaim as a propulsive, swinging stride pianist and vocalist. Credits include playing and recording with many noted artists such as Steve Allen, Banu Gibson, Blues legend Brownie McGhee, Howard Alden, Zeke Zarchy, Dick Cary, Bob Havens, Dan Barrett and Bob Schulz. Having performed in a variety of venues, from dinner theaters to the country's largest jazz festival, Templin has proven to be quite a versatile entertainer. His acting and voice-over talent has also led him to the world of television and commercials.
Kelland Thomas, Saxophone
Dr. Kelland Thomas has performed throughout the U.S. and in Canada, Switzerland, Germany, Italy, Mexico, and Japan. An active jazz musician, Kelland has performed with such jazz greats as Diane Schuur, Louis Bellson, David "Fathead" Newman, Bud Shank, and Lou Rawlins, and has performed with the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra.
Kelly Thomas, Tuba
Dr. Thomas was appointed tuba/euphonium instructor and director of pep bands at the University of Arizona in 2001. In 1995 and 2007 Kelly performed at Carnegie Hall as a soloist and en- semble member with the TTTE. In 2003 and 2007 he hosted the ITEA Regional Conference at the University of Arizona.
Rob Wright, Banjo and Vocals
An accomplished, energetic touring musician, Rob is a former member of the famed folk ensemble The New Christy Minstrels. Rob’s banjo playing is often compared to the late great Eddie Peabody, and his engaging vocal stylings add a special touch to many of the tunes performed by the Wildcats.