This interesting and informative jazz workshop features national jazz artists in four one-hour sessions and includes performance, conversations with the audience, student interaction with clinicians, and wonderful insights into what it takes to create Jazz.

Sessions begin at 10:00 AM with bassist John Leitham and drummer Donny Osborne. Both of these musicians played a number of years with jazz legend Mel Torme, Donny Osborne for over 20 years. John Leitham currently tours and plays with Doc Severinson's band. Donny was originally a protégé of the incomparable Buddy Rich. Get prepared for some very experienced insights into the jazz rhythm section.

Next come musicians Holly Hofmann (flute) and Bill Cunliffe (piano) at 11:15 AM. This duo presents a softer, melodic, yet very exciting jazz sound. Holly and Bill have played concerts and festivals all over the USA and abroad. Many of you may have seen Bill Cunliffe with the Clayton Brothers at First Jazz 1998. Holly and Bill will take a jazz standard and demonstrate how the tune is played in the various jazz styles that have emerged since the inception of jazz.

After a break for lunch (there are a number of restaurants in the neighborhood surrounding PSU) we will pick up with a "young lion" who plays piano and sings, Loston Harris at 1:30 PM. This young man has toured with the Marsalis Brothers and recorded with his own quartet. Loston started his jazz training as a drummer, but soon switched to piano with the encouragement and tutelage of no less than Ellis Marsalis. Loston's voice has been described as a cross between Harry Connick, Jr. and Frank Sinatra. What Loston has in store for us will be a surprise, but as he does numerous workshops, we know it will be fun.

At 2:45 PM, we will have the Lynne Arriale Trio, who have conducted educational clinics throughout the world, answering the question, "What should I practice?" Pianist Lynne Arriale and drummer Steve Davis are longtime faculty members of the Jamey Aebersold summer Jazz Workshops, and have played on many jazz playalong CDs. The trio will coach ensembles and discuss topics including effective practice techniques, how to play a better solo, interaction between the soloist and the rhythm section, improving rhythm section playing and effective listening. This is a hands on session; all instruments are welcome.