• "I have enjoyed Stan's compositions and arrangements for a variety of groups. His original work reflects an intimate and instinctive knowledge of the jazz idiom. His concert pieces make subtle use of that same harmonic language, giving it a richness of expression above and beyond most concert-band writing. He writes with a sophistication the highlights the beauty of the music itself, not the cleverness of the arrangement or the skill of the orchestrator. In short, Stan's writing displays a deep understanding of the music itself and what makes the group sound good."

    "I have admired Stan’s writing for several years. We met in person when he attended the United States Air Force Band’s 60th Reunion of the Airmen of Note, which have performed several of Stan’s outstanding big‐band charts over the years."

     -- Bob Thurston, Former Chief Arranger and Music Programming Manager for the Air Force Band, Washington DC

     
  • “The marvel of the big band will never fade away as long as bands like that of Stan Bann keep the tradition moving forward. ”

    -- Bob Florence, Grammy / Emmy Award Winning Composer, Arranger

     
  • "In every case, beauty is the predominant trait, one that is evidently inherent in Bann's approach to music in general and the trombone in particular. He writes always with the responsive listener in mind, which makes his compositions and unequivocal pleasure to hear and appreciate."

    -- Jack Bowers, www.AllAboutJazz.com 

     
  • "With 'Penmanship', Stan Bann gets us with his ensemble to a world full of warm colors and sonorities. His low brass band sounds gorgeous, warm, and the performances, including the many feature solos, are full of soul and subtleties. A special mention to the writing, which elevates the performances and makes this ensemble sound like no other. Penmanship is an album to listen carefully from top to bottom.”

    -- Marc Jovani, Composer and Founder of Cinematic Composing

     
  • "Penmanship" is certainly an appropriate title for Stan Bann's latest CD because it showcases Stan's creative writing for trombone ensemble. I love these refreshing charts which should be part of every trombone ensemble's repertoire. Congratulations Stan on this great project."

    -- Rick Simerly, Jazz Trombonist

     
  • “Serious writing, executed by serious players produces a serious product! Stan Bann has accomplished the end result on his latest recording, Penmanship, through crafting arrangements for low brass choir, rhythm section and some of the world’s leading trombone soloists. The music on Penmanship is a winning combo that appeals to both sides of the music stand. Musicians will be challenged by the charts, and listeners will enjoy hearing them! ”

    -- Mark Channon -- Jazz Host

     
  • “You can feel the love for the trombone and low brass exuding from this CD from start to finish. Stan Bann’s overall concept and artistry in executing it is highly admirable. His tunes are catchy and his orchestration fully explores the range of colours available, from beauty to power and everything in between. Add to that the world-class soloists and I challenge anyone not to find it a riveting and most enjoyable listen throughout.”

    -- Mark Nightingale -- Jazz Trombonist (London)

     
  • “Stan Bann’s Penmanship is a tour de force of outstanding low brass performance and composition. A pleasure to listen to on every level. Bravo Stan”

    -- Michael Davis, Trombonist / Composer / Clinician / Hip Bone Music

     
  • “Beautifully conceived, fun and creative writing for trombones. Yah!"”
    -- Bob McChesney, Trombonist / Composer / Educator

     
  • “Stan Bann has created a masterful recording of original music for trombone. ‘Penmanship’ occupies a unique space between nostalgic and contemporary. If you are a lover of the trombone or of great playing this recording is a must.””
    -- Jerry Luckhardt, Associate Director of the University of Minnesota School of Music