A GRAMMY®-nominated saxophonist, composer, producer and educator, Bobby Watson trained formally at the University of Miami and then, 1977–1981, earned his “doctorate” as musical director of Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers and appeared on 14 of the group’s recordings, more than anyone else in the ensemble’s 35-year existence. In addition to Blakey, Watson worked with notable jazz icons Max Roach, Louis Hayes, George Coleman and Sam Rivers.  He has also worked with peers and colleagues alike including Branford Marsalis, Wynton Marsalis, and vocalists Joe Williams, Dianne Reeves, Lou Rawls, Betty Carter, and Carmen Lundy.

Dan Thomas is a dedicated performer and educator. Thomas holds the position as associate director of jazz studies at the UMKC Conservatory of Music and Dance, where he serves as the co-chair of the Division of Jazz Studies, is the coordinator of assessment, and is the coordinator of the UMKC Jazz Camp and the UMKC Jazz Festival, alongside his friend and colleague Bobby Watson. Thomas holds performing artist/educator endorsements with Yamaha, Vandoren, Locoparasaxo, WeWood, and RooPads.