![]() ![]() ![]() A graduate of the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Gisbert has never lacked for work over the years and has been lucky enough to appear on a number of fine releases as of late (Mickey Tucker's Hang in There, on SteepleChase, comes to mind) in addition to cutting two previous discs for Criss Cross Jazz. That is to say he has spent much of his young musical career in the big bands (Buddy Rich and Maria Schneider) and doing studio work that while providing a living doesn't necessarily make for high visibility among the record-buying public. As always, the Court Jesters encourage fans to welcome our newest band members.Trumpeter Greg Gisbert is a modern-day equivalent of such predecessors as Conte Condoli, Marvin Stamm, Richard Williams, and Clark Terry. Van Baines will assume the role of lead guitarist. Nevertheless, because of his effervescent love of live music performance, we shall strive to go forward in tribute to his memory. The pain of losing a band brother digs deep within us. In late September of 2018, the band’s lead guitarist, Steve Barrera passed away. His vocal style is also described as soulful/rock. Thankfully, the band has once again been blessed with the addition of Michael Bell who joined the band as its lead vocalist in September of 2018. He is retiring from the band in order to move to Colorado. Shawn served as the band’s lead vocalist from August of 2014 to August of 2018. Mike was succeeded by Shawn Smith whose vocal style is described as soulful/rock. After 9 years of being the band’s lead vocalist with a unique country/rock style, Mike Jackson retired from the band in April of 2014. Frank Menchaca joined the band as its saxophonist (alto and tenor) in September of 2013.Ī change in a band’s lead vocalist can be a defining moment because of each singer’s unique vocal qualities and style. The Court Jesters are no exception. Jim Frost retired from the band in May of 2013, while David Parent joined the band as its bassist and vocalist at the same time. ![]() ![]() Mark did more for our band than we could ever express. Mark Luitjen retired in April of 2013, after a long and wonderful time with the band. Mary retired from the band in May of 2008. The Court Jesters have been performing continuously since September 2005. Added to the mix were Steve Barrera (guitar), Brett Rowe (trumpet/flugelhorn/vocals), Doug Walsdorf (trumpet/flugelhorn/vocals), Jim Frost (saxophones) and the band's only non-lawyer, commercial real estate broker Bobby Trevino (keyboards). Ruben, Mark, Mike, Sol, Joe and Mary then set out to find the remaining musicians necessary for this band in the hopes of playing together long past this event. In 2005, Mary Doggett (vocals) approached Ruben and Joe with the idea of putting together a lawyer band to perform that fall at the San Antonio Bar Association and Bar Foundation Installation Dinner and Dance Gala. Ruben and Joe teamed up with Mark, and Joe's brother, Sol Casseb (drums) to play their firm's annual holiday parties.ĭespite their love for music and entertaining, their professional careers and family obligations pulled them away from the music scene for a number of years. In the late 1980's and early 1990's, Ruben and Joe Casseb (guitar/vocals) were practicing law together at a local law firm. Mike Jackson (vocals/guitar) joined for the following year's Follies show. However, the band's foundation originally began to take shape in 1987 when Mark Luitjen (vocals/bass guitar) asked Ruben Barrera (trumpet/flugelhorn/trombone) to join him and other musicians to play at a Bexar County District Attorney Follies show in October of that year. The Court Jesters history begins in September of 2005. ![]()
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