High Sierra Jazz Band is the host band for Jazzaffair and we took this opportunity (April 7-9, 2000) to recognize them and present them with our plaque in honor of having been selected by our readers as their favorite active traditional jazz band. They were HOT! They were EXCITED! They were INSPIRED! They were the BEST I've ever heard them.
"The American Rag" May 2000


"The band did great. It is a new band with a new sound, but better than EVER. We received nothing but excellent comments.
Comments from Mike Griffin, Chattanooga director, re: HSJB appearance in May of 2000


Pieter Meijers and his clarinet have proved themselves worthy leaders of this hard-driving West Coast style group. Word from the critics is in: the new band is easily the equal of its predecessor.
Program description from Sacramento Jazz Jubilee, May 26-29, 2000



Musical Style:
The High Sierra Jazz Band's trade mark is exciting, hard-driving 2-beat traditional jazz, often described as "West Coast" style. Its extensive repertoire consists of tunes by Lu Watters, Turk Murphy, "Jelly Roll" Morton, Lil Hardin, Sidney Bechet, Louis Armstrong, "King" Oliver and others.


Their strength:
A bold and solid rhythm section; superb musicianship; vocals by Earl McKee and Howard Miyata; enthusiastic presentation; an extensive and varied repertoire; and they generate audience excitement!