About

Shaun Jurek, like his counterparts on piano and drums, is a
veteran of the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia gig circuit. He is
like-minded with the other two members of the trio in that music is
about service and sharing. His musicianship and specifically his
bass playing reflects that completely. In his own words having the
chance to play with Mark and Nate is "the opportunity of a
lifetime. Every gig is unique. Every gig is fun!" To learn more
about this talented and versatile musician you may visit him at:
www.shaunjurek.com.

Jazz pianist and composer Mark Brandt formed the new Mark Brandt Jazz
Trio with long time friend and collaborator Nate Panning in January 2008
after an eight year hiatus. Together with bassist Shaun Jurek they are
bringing new fire and excitement to the jazz circuit everywhere they go. A
professional performing and recording artist since 1977, Mark has released
five CD's as a leader. All of his projects have sold in record stores and on
the internet. Three of Mark's compositions have received national
promotion and radio air play on jazz stations across America. In recent
years Mark has become known as a respected instructor and clinician as
well as being recognized as a unique and accomplished jazz pianist. If
you would like to know more about Mark you can visit him at:
www.markbrandt.com.

Nate Panning is no stranger to the professional circuit. Nate, like Mark is
one of the most recognizable musicians in the Tri-State area. He is also
a highly respected educator as well as an in-demand performer. Nate's
favorite style of performance can be heard when he is serving up his
unique and endearing brush and stick work with the Mark Brandt Trio.
"We have a shared philosophy," says Nate. "We feel that the focus
should be on the people who hire you, and the people who come out
to hear you play. We are sharing our gifts as opposed to seeking
attention for them." To learn more about Nate you can visit him at:
www.natepanning.com.

"Playing jazz allows you to be all things to all people. One night you're blowing out originals in a club; the next day you
might be playing for an outdoor festival; then you are bringing smiles to the elderly at a senior center with jazz standards;
another night you are playing quiet dinner music. We are always the same band but the dynamics of each location along
with the shifting repertoire provide us with the spontaneity and the creativity that each of us loves.

Jazz has always had this reputation of being a dark or 'esoteric' music performed by somber, serious, and even
anti-social musicians. Not so with Nate, Shaun, and I. We love to play, we always have fun, and we are committed to
spreading the joy."