Jazz Vespers Performers' Bios

The Peter Dent Trio

St. John’s Jazz Vespers is pleased to welcome the Peter Dent trio as their featured performers on March 7 at 7:00 p.m.  Bringing their jazz adaptations of hymn tunes, pianist Peter Dent will be joined by drummer Mike Griner and bassist Alex Olson.
 
Peter Dent’s compositional style is an eclectic fusion of jazz, gospel, blues, folk and classical elements, which has resulted in his works having broad appeal.   He has recorded numerous CD’s, including three of jazz adaptations of hymns, and two original full-length choral works.  The list of the many jazz musicians he has worked with includes Oliver Jones, Terry Clark, Neil Swainson, Lorraine Foster, Karen Plato, Barbara Blair and Linton Garner.  He has played at many jazz festivals in Canada and Europe.  In addition to performing and recording, he also teaches jazz piano, and leads two choirs.
 
Alex Olson is a member of the Victoria Symphony and a freelance bassist in Victoria BC. He is principal bassist with the Palm Court Orchestra and performs with numerous classical and non-classical ensembles.  His experience lies in ethnic folk, Broadway, big band and small band jazz, chamber music and symphonic music. He also plays mandolin and is director of the Victoria Mandolin Orchestra.
 
Mike played his first gig at age 15. During his many years of playing, he has worked with Bob Moyer, Bernie Seninsky, Hugh Fraser, Tommy Banks, Mart Kenney, Dal Richards, Johnny Cash, Gene Bader, Lorraine Foster and Ian McDougal.