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This piano concert promises to be one of the can't-miss performances of the series. Beth is always a crowd favorite, and we expect a packed house. We hope you'll join us for an unforgettable afternoon of exceptional music.
Sunday July 26th @ 2:00 pm
Concert Location:
Mount Cross Lutheran Church (across from Safeway)
601 East Highway 260
Payson, Arizona 85541
Beth Lederman – Piano & Keyboards
For more than four decades, Beth Lederman has been one of Arizona's premier pianists, composers, and bandleaders, celebrated for her artistry, versatility, and dynamic performances across jazz, Latin, Brazilian, pop, and contemporary music. An Arizona native, she began studying classical piano at age five before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music, building the foundation for a career that has made her one of the Southwest's most respected musicians.
Beth has performed with an impressive roster of artists, including James Moody, Carmen Bradford, The Diamonds, Bobbie Vinton, and the Phoenix Symphony, while collaborating with many of Arizona's finest musicians. She is the founder and leader of the acclaimed Latin jazz ensemble Jazz Con Alma and has directed and performed with celebrated groups including Novo Mundo, Más, and Zúm, Zúm, Zúm, earning a reputation for vibrant performances that blend technical excellence with infectious energy.
In addition to her performing career, Beth is a dedicated educator, teaching in Arizona State University's Popular Music Program and at The Nash Jazz Education Center, where she has inspired countless students. Her warmth, creativity, and unmistakable musical voice continue to make her one of Arizona's most beloved and influential performers.
Mary Petrich – Saxophone
Mary Petrich is one of Arizona's most accomplished saxophonists and woodwind artists, admired for her expressive sound, technical brilliance, and remarkable versatility. A leading figure in the Southwest jazz community, she has performed with the Phoenix Symphony, the Grammy Award-winning Phoenix Chorale, the Arizona Festival Orchestra, The Temptations, and numerous distinguished jazz ensembles throughout the region.
Comfortable in everything from straight-ahead jazz and Latin music to contemporary and chamber settings, Mary is equally recognized as a bandleader and musical innovator. She leads the acclaimed OpenHand Quartet, directs The Nash Little Big Band, and is a founding member of the Phoenix Jazz Women Collective, helping to expand opportunities for women in jazz while championing original music and artistic collaboration.
A passionate educator and mentor, Mary serves on the music faculty at Phoenix College and teaches at The Nash Jazz Education Center, where she has inspired generations of young musicians. Her artistry, leadership, and dedication to Arizona's musical community have made her one of the state's most respected and sought-after performers.
Rob Wren – Bass
Rob Wren is one of Arizona's most respected bassists, known for his impeccable groove, musical versatility, and collaborative spirit. For decades, he has been a cornerstone of the Valley's jazz community, performing in concert halls, festivals, clubs, and recording studios throughout the Southwest.
Over the course of his career, Rob has shared the stage with legendary entertainers including Mel Tormé, Rosemary Clooney, Buddy Greco, and internationally acclaimed jazz artists Pete Christlieb, Wayne Bergeron, and Bill Cunliffe. Whether performing jazz, Latin, pop, or contemporary music, his melodic approach and unwavering sense of time provide the foundation that allows every ensemble to flourish.
Widely admired for his professionalism, musicianship, and instinctive musicality, Rob continues to be one of Arizona's most in-demand bassists, bringing warmth, creativity, and exceptional artistry to every performance.
Gerry Reynolds – Drums
A favorite with audiences and fellow musicians alike, Gerry Reynolds is one of Arizona's most respected jazz drummers, celebrated for his impeccable sense of swing, tasteful musicianship, and dynamic touch. For decades, he has been a driving force in the state's jazz community, performing with many of Arizona's finest musicians, including Stan Sorenson, John Darst, Bob Véltré, and numerous other acclaimed artists.
Beyond the bandstand, Gerry has devoted himself to strengthening Arizona's jazz community. As a leader with Jazz in Arizona, Inc., the organization behind The Nash, he has helped support jazz performance and education while fostering opportunities for musicians and audiences alike. He is also the founder of the Payson Jazz Series (PJs), which has become a beloved destination for outstanding live jazz in Arizona.
Known for his musical sensitivity, rhythmic precision, and unwavering professionalism, Gerry is equally respected for his generosity, leadership, and commitment to keeping jazz thriving throughout the state. His artistry and dedication have made him one of Arizona's most admired and enduring jazz musicians.
