Swing * Jazz * Big Band * Western * Latin * Salsa * Rock * Standards

About the Dennis Clauss Band

 Dennis Clauss plays dozens of instruments and is a dazzling pianist and oboist and a gifted entertainer (he's often mistaken for Steve Martin). He formed the Big Band and the Combo 10 years ago in Yakima, Wash., after realizing the Northwest needed a top-rated group, and he has been in demand ever since. Dennis searches for highly-talented singers and musicians. Appearing with Dennis regularly is fabulous vocalist Laurel Cawley.
   Running sound for Dennis whenever the Big Band is booked is his son Daniel, considered one of the top sound technicians in the Northwest. Daniel is not only Dennis' son and musical advisor, but he's also Dennis' close friend.

Dennis' Background

Dennis began his love  affair  with  music  when he  was just 4 years old. While other kids grumbled about piano lessons, Dennis' fingers danced on the keys. During his teen years, the clarinet captured his heart and in college, the oboe seldom left his hands. His extraordinary musical ability launched a distinguished career, which included: Corporate Music Director for the United States Steel Corp.; instructing college music classes; consulting for Christian Artists International; and music director and conductor of the Yakima Youth Symphony for 14 seasons. He's performed freelance as a single artist, and in duos, trios and quartets. Dennis recently retired as the orchestra director for Davis High School in Yakima and now concentrates on his Big Band, Combo groups and solo concerts.