The Band
(Evolution and Concept)

Co-op Bop, The Band- (Evolution of a Quintet)

CO-OP BOP, a Quintet, has developed in various combinations since the late 1950’s.  Alan Gaumer (trpt.) and Craig Kastelnik (org.), coached by Craig’s father (KAL) appeared on the Ted Mack Original Amateur Hour as “kids”. Their association continued to grow. Along the way, Tom Kozic, @ 17 years of age, began to play guitar with Alan’s Quartet. By the late 1970’s Gary Rissmiller took over the drum chair. And while this group was playing one of its’ common steady “gigs” at a local venue, Nelson Hill (sax) burst on to the scene. Since that time they have continued to perform together building a library of standard and original compositions. They have consistently played under each others’ names sharing leadership roles. Recently because of their mutual respect for one another, they came to the conclusion that a group name was in order, SO……it’s official…….

Co-operative - 'bop-erative' or CO-OP BOP. They have an exciting and signature sound. Their new CD, self-titled, has been in circulation for several months garnering RAVE REVIEWS. They have individually and collectively performed with a virtual who’s who of Jazz personalities (see bios).

These 5 musicians have an incredible history together and largely due to that, but mostly because of their tremendous rapport, were the obvious choice for the first record effort from the co-operative.

CONCEPT (The extended Co-op ~ The Collective)

Although the above listed quintet has the most history, the actual concept of CO-OP BOP goes considerably deeper. In essence the co-operative, or collective, happens to be geographically located in a region that is blessed with a large number of exceptional musicians.

In reality, over the years ALL these musicians from the collective have played with each other in various combinations. All compositions, arrangements and ideas brought forth have undergone dramatic transformation. Making each performance unique primarily because of the individual personalities involved.

While all musicians in the Co-op (and the collective) are involved in a variety of projects, one thing is clear - We love to play together.

If for some reason none of these units are appropriate for your particular need or event, then a band can be custom built, just by contacting Alan Gaumer, the driving force behind the collective.

From Dixieland to Big Band to Smooth. Whatever your idea of Jazz is, we can provide it.

Primary Musicians:

Alan Gaumer

Craig Kastelnik

Gary Rissmiller

Nelson Hill

Tom Kozic

FIRST CALL Guest Artists:

Bill Washer

Neil Wetzel

Bobby Routch

Dave Mohn