Gary Ruppert - Jazz for a Rainy Day (2019)

Gary Ruppert, a classical and jazz pianist, has been a performer and educator in Oregon for more than 45 years. He is a multifaceted musician, having worked as Assistant Musical Director in professional summer stock theater, guest soloist with symphonies, a church choir director, and jazz performer in many locations around Oregon and California. His entire career has been centered around helping audiences better understand and appreciate what they are listening to, no matter what style that may be. As a past president of Oregon Music Teachers’ Association and original author of their jazz syllabus, he has been actively engaged with teachers and students. As a music faculty member, Chair of Performing Arts, and later Dean of Liberal Arts, Gary has a comprehensive grasp of education and the need for a broad-based understanding of all the arts. Gary has always been an advocate for jazz that is melodic, has a creative touch, and accessible to listeners.