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Email PaysonJazz@gmail.com to join our email list and get confirmation of upcoming concerts
Sunday July 12th @ 2:00 pm
Concert Location:
Mount Cross Lutheran Church (across from Safeway)
601 East Highway 260
Payson, Arizona 85541
Stan Sorenson Quartet
Stan Sorenson – Guitar
Stan Sorenson is one of Arizona’s most respected jazz guitarists, known for his lyrical style, versatility, and decades-long presence in the Phoenix music scene. Inspired by jazz guitar legend Herb Ellis, Stan began playing at age eight and went on to study jazz performance at Arizona State University, receiving private instruction from renowned guitarists including Joe Pass and Gene Bertoncini.
Over his distinguished career, Stan has performed with artists such as George Benson, Nancy Wilson, Jimmy Smith, Rosemary Clooney, Vic Damone, and The Fifth Dimension. His ensembles have appeared at major festivals and opened for legendary performers including David Benoit, Ella Fitzgerald, Ray Charles, and Burt Bacharach.
Known for blending traditional jazz with influences from Latin, rock, and contemporary music, Stan continues to be one of the Valley’s most admired and sought-after musicians.
Chris Counelis – Saxophone
Chris Counelis is an accomplished tenor saxophonist known for his expressive tone, inventive improvisation, and deep roots in the jazz tradition. Raised in a musical family, he studied at Berklee College of Music while still in high school before continuing his jazz performance studies at the University of North Texas, one of the nation's premier jazz programs.
An active performer throughout Northern Arizona, Chris appears regularly at venues including the Cosmos Theater in Sedona, Raven Café and Copper Note Café in Prescott, the Elks Saxophone Summit, Sedona Chamber Jazz events, and the Thursday Jazz Jam in Prescott. His long musical association with Stan Sorenson and his technical mastery, creativity, and intuitive musicianship make him the perfect addition to this outstanding quartet.
Mike King – Bass
Mike King is one of Arizona’s premier jazz bassists, admired for his exceptional musicianship, deep groove, and versatility. A longtime fixture on the Valley jazz scene, he has performed with many of the Southwest’s finest musicians in concerts, festivals, clubs, and recording sessions. Known for his melodic approach, impeccable timing, and intuitive accompaniment, Mike provides the solid foundation and musical interplay that are hallmarks of outstanding jazz ensembles.
Gerry Reynolds – Drums
Gerry Reynolds is a highly respected jazz drummer known for his tasteful playing, dynamic touch, and unwavering sense of swing. A longtime leader in Arizona’s jazz community, he has performed with many of the region’s top musicians while also helping to promote jazz through his leadership with "Jazz in Arizona Inc." Gerry’s musical sensitivity, rhythmic precision, and decades of experience make him one of the Valley’s most admired and dependable drummers.