Truth in Jazz

Truth in Jazz is a dynamic big band established by The Truth newspaper for community service

and enrichment of the arts in Elkhart County. The band instrument segment of Elkhart’s

manufacturing base provides the area with a high concentration of extremely talented musicians

who feel strongly about preserving this critical piece of Elkhart’s heritage. Truth in Jazz comprises

local professionals who are committed to being champions of community service and are joined

together by their love of

big band music.

All volunteers, many of the musicians in Truth in Jazz have played professionally with top name

artists such as Bobby McFerrin, the Glenn Miller Band, Tommy Newsom, Patti Page, Doc

Severinson, Mel Tormé and Sarah Vaughan, to name a few.

Regular Truth in Jazz Orchestra Musicians:

Saxophone

Tom Stansell
Don Fretty
Greg Marsden
Dan Giacobassi
Dana Lasswell
 

Trumpet

Max Colley
Matt Lintula
Dan Jacobs
 

Trombone

Ed Spier
Mike McLeod
Warren VanKampen

Rhythm

Vince Leafers - Piano
Rob Hartman - Bass
Tim Froncek - Drums

Truth in Jazz Orchestra Alumni:

Saxophones: Jeff Baird, Jim Van Bemmelen, Greg Nimtz, Bob Nixon

Trumpets: Jillian Stansell, Dave Wells, Jeff Ayers, Dave Stroebe, Frank Warrick, Steve Haynes,

Richard Erne, Dan Duncan, Dave Schock

Trombones: Jack Adams, Jeff Leafers, Dave Collee