Carl J. Bowers - Tenor Trombone: Carl performed the works of classical composers on piano, flute and guitar before taking an interest in jazz trombone and the electric bass in 1973. His first professional appearance was a live 'in-studio' solo television performance on a wooden soprano recorder in 1970 in Omaha, NE. A proficient classical flautist aspiring to get into the jazz bands during his public education years, it was necessary that he learn another instrument besides flute. A saxophone would have been the natural transition but it was more than he could afford at the time. When his parents found his first trombone at a garage sale for $90.00, the private lessons began immediately. Studying with Melvin Frame until 1981, Carl had become a sought after trombonist for both classical and jazz work and received regular calls from Musicians Union Local 6. It was during this time that he developed his reading skills as it was quite common to "get the call" just hours before the performance. His strong reading skills also afforded him the opportunity to work with greats like David Baker, Louis Mandrell, and many more. Residing in Sonoma County, he performs regularly in the studio and on the stage. Besides The Volker Strifler Band, he is currently a member of Shade and Case of the Willys.