2024 Cool Jazz Adjudicators

November 16, 2024

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Wayne Bliss: A very active musician in the greater Seattle area for over 25 years, Wayne has established himself as an in-demand bassist and guitarist.  Wayne has had the privilege of working with such musical and show business legends as The Four Tops, The Temptations, Joan Rivers, Wayne Newton, Jerry Lewis, Frankie Avalon, Fabian, Doc Severinsen, The Captain and Tennille, and Rosemary Clooney. In addition to playing as a freelance bassist and guitarist, Wayne also gives clinics and lectures in schools and enjoys working with musical groups throughout the Pacific Northwest.

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David Joyner: Freelance musician and owner of DDJ Music Services. For 18 years he taught at Pacific Lutheran University, where he was Professor of Music in history of jazz, Director of University Jazz Ensemble, Director of Northwest Jazz Honor Band, and Artistic Director and performer for the Jazz Under the Stars concert series. David grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, where he embraced jazz and became a major player in the Memphis jazz and commercial music scene. Additionally, he has performed for legends such as Bob Hope, Danny Thomas, Henry Mancini, and Bob Newhart.

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David has worked with our Cool Jazz Festival for many years as the point person that has arranged for our adjudicators as well as serving as an adjudicator himself. We really appreciate his support for our Festival.

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Jeff Chang: Jeff Chang, originally from Taipei, Taiwan, is a dedicated public school teacher who has been shaping young minds since 2007. His passion for music education has not gone unnoticed, as he achieved the title of quarterfinalist for the prestigious Grammy Music Education Award.

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In addition to his teaching role, Jeff leads the Decatur Jazz Band, which has claimed the 47th Downbeat Outstanding High School Large Ensemble award. He also serves as the Jazz Orchestra Director at the University of Puget Sound, the Jazz Director at the Birch Bay Band Directors Workshop and is the current WMEA Jazz Curriculum Officer.

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Beyond his teaching and leadership roles, Jeff is an active performer and clinician in the Pacific Northwest and internationally. Through his music, Jeff continues to inspire and influence students and musicians alike with his knowledge and talent.

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