Fellow Jazzers ! This month we have a band made up largely from one family. The Mother of these daughters, “Lin” Balser just celebrated her 80th birthday in January ! Lin spent half of those years in the Chicago area, playing piano in Cedar Lake Resort. She has played in lots of piano bars and has been with MIDNIGHT ROSE JAZZ BAND for 8 years.

Those new to Dixieland Festivals may not know this family has played together for two decades, (and I’ve been watching them.) While with Tuleburg J.B., Dannie played piano and trumpet - and sister, Nancy Kreis, played clarinet. Nancy’s kids are half-grown now, but I’ve watched them grow from just tots. It’s so nice to see the whole family get involved. Nancy’s husband, Rich, watches the children and helps set up the stage and sound equipment, organizes the itinerary and keeps everything running smoothly.

MIDNIGHT ROSE JAZZ BAND started about 8 years ago when arthritis in Dannie’s hands started giving her trouble. She and Nancy left Tuleburg JB and started this band with Mother, Lin, on piano. Nancy and Dannie have a sister, Laurie, who opted not to stay in the band.

Most of the remaining musicians are like family. Ken O’Brien, trombone, has been with them from the start as has Reuben Smith, bass. Al Nersesan will be on drums and Dave Cotter, banjo, finishes out the fellows on the band.

Dixielanders will be in ‘hog heaven’ this month ! This band is not new to Redding - they have filled our room every time they’ve appeared here! So, Fellow Jazzers, grab your umbrellas and head for the Elks!