The Valley Jazz Combo is a traditional jazz small group that branched off of the Valley Jazz Band out of Chaska, Minnesota. The group consists of mainly music teachers that love to play jazz. The Valley Jazz Band has been around for a number of years now, but the Valley Jazz Combo is a relatively new group. Despite the newness of the group, there is no shortage of experience. All the members of the Valley Jazz Combo are experienced jazz musicians who have extensive experience playing in other jazz groups prior to this one. Paul Swanson, who directs the Valley Jazz Band, is the group's bass player. He and trombonist Eric Songer both teach music in the Chaska school district. Eric, a graduate of UW-Eau Claire played in the jazz ensemble there under the direction of Bob Baca for three years. Saxophonist Adam Bestler teaches in Hopkins and directs his own big band, Just Friends. The group is occasionally joined by singer, Caroline Swanson who also teaches music in Chaska. Caroline is also the vocalist for the Valley Jazz Band. Drummer Bob Schumaker teaches in St. Peter. The only musician in the group not currently teaching is pianist Dennis VanVactor who works for Yamaha Music.
The Valley Jazz Combo has played regularly at Chesnuts Restaurant in Chaska. They have also played in local coffee houses and for park and rec summer music series. For booking information, contact Eric Songer at 952-556-7459 or 612-669-3506.