History

The Vancouver Community Jazz Band (VCJB) began as an extension of the larger Vancouver Community Concert Band (VCCB). Our purpose is perform at venues where a concert band wouldn't be feasible or appropriate.

The VCJB launched in early 2024, with our first performance taking place at the La Center Library in May. After this success, additional performances were scheduled throughout the summer. Today, the VCJB's membership includes musicians from all walks of life and levels of experience.

In 2025, a smaller combo was formed due to increased interest and requests for performances. Known as the VCJC, the combo expands our outreach and provides a more intimate setting for performance.

membership

Membership is assessed each quarter to allow for musicians to cycle in/out as necessary. Musicians interested in joining should contact us using the form below. If a spot is not available, you may be added to our substitute listing and called upon in the event of a planned absence.

leadership

The VCJB is under the direction of Mr. Neil Huss. He has nearly 25 years of music performance experience with all types of ensembles, including drum and bugle corps.

Neil studied at Roanoke College under former U.S. Army Pershing’s Own trombonist, Dr. Joseph Blaha, and spent several years teaching in the K-12 and higher education settings prior to the pandemic. In 2022, he relocated to the PNW and regularly performs on trombone and euphonium.

Neil also directs the newly-formed Clark County Marching Band and is pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership.

VCJB Musicians

Katherine Livick (alto/flute)
​Liz Dauw (alto)
​Anna Golar (tenor)
Dustin Hopkins (tenor)
Boyd Malcom (bari)

Meghan Richardson
Mark Elliott
Mackenzie Eaton
Dave Hutson
Sinde Hahn
Alan Jones

Erick Laabs
Jeff Otterstad
​Jacie Fabela
​Jaimon Tanner
Michael Tolon (bass)
John Van Zytveld (tuba)

Roger Laabs

Sean Reed (guitar)
Forest Brehm (bass)

​Max Sarvata
​Kirk Turya

VCJC Musicians

Katherine Livick (vocals/alto), Dustin Hopkins (tenor), Meghan Richardson (trumpet),
​Erick Laabs (trombone), Allison Drake (piano), Jim Graham (bass), Katie Smith (drums)