Stan Bann: News

I just learned of Bob Florence's passing yesterday in Los Angeles. It's an extremely sad day for jazz in general and anyone who was graced by Bob's warm and wonderful spirit.

Bob was kind enough to provide a quote for the liner notes of my first album. We exchanged e-mails on everything from advice on big band leadership to humor postings (he had a marvelous sense of humor).

We met in person at Bud Shank's jazz camp several years ago; a week I've treasured ever since.

I remember attending a faculty recital at the camp where Bob did a solo piano piece that held the audience spellbound. At the end of the piece, under all the applause, my then teenage son leaned over to me and whispered "Can you spell 'monster'??" Anyone who could touch a teenager with that sort of awe was, indeed, the highest form of monster.

Bob, you'll be missed by many people on many levels. Thanks for the fantastic music and deeply personal memories. God bless.

With all the focus on the 35W bridge collapse in Minneapolis last night I have received numerous e-mails offering emotional support and asking how we all are doing. The good news is all band members and their families are safe and well.

Our thoughts and prayers are with those who were directly affected by the collapse, their immediate and extended families, and particularly those in limbo waiting for word on missing family members. We also add our own wishes for the entire Twin Cities and surrounding communities who are coping with the magnitude of this disaster.

Being a Twin Cities native its painful to see my home town having to endure this situation. At the same time I'm proud of how people have selflessly responded and pulled together in this time of need. Character and personal integrity grow in each of us over time and in instances like this, good or bad, they blossom to the fore. Minnesota you have shown our great character.

Thank you again for all the concern, prayers, and caring messages from around the country. We deeply appreciate them.

Stan

Pick up the June edition of the Eden Prairie Magazine to find a feature on Stan Bann, leader of the Stan Bann Big Band. The feature, entitled "All in the Family" chronicles Stan's extensive musical experience and history and how he successfully integrates composition and performance into his everyday life. You'll also learn more about the musical and ever-busy Bann family. Way to go, Stan!!!!

EDEN PRAIRIE, MN -- The Stan Bann Big Band is proud to announce that their premiere album for Northmark Lab "Stratford Blue" is now avaialble on iTunes. "We're pleased to offer this convenience to our existing fans and look forward to reaching many more people through this digital venture, " said Stan Bann. "We've had great international response to both 'Stratford Blue' and 'Good Intentions' and look forward to expanding on their precedents."

The Stan Bann Big Band was formed by composer and trombonist Stan Bann in September, 1990. Since then the band has performed over 350 concerts and clinics in and around the Minneapolis / St. Paul area. Their fresh, high energy music has connected with audiences of all ages and made them favorites on the Twin Cities jazz scene.

For more information on the Stan Bann Big Band, Stan Bann Music, or Northmark Lab please contact media@stanbann.com. To book Stan or the Stan Bann Big Band please contact booking@stanbann.com.