Jeff Van Devender in concert June, July

Local News

June 22, 2009

OSKALOOSA — Colorado composer and pianist Jeff Van Devender brings his unique blend of piano compositions and arrangements to Osky’s Smokey Row June 26 at 7 p.m. and Central United Methodist Church Sunday evening, June 28, at 7 p.m.

Vaan Devender is a 1980 graduate of Oskaloosa H.S.

His melodies have been sought after for various art shows, as well as soundtrack and educational projects including, most recently, a recent educational video for a major Pilates company. Van Devender’s engagements have included a 10-year run with Summerfest at YMCA of the Rockies in Colorado, as well as resident pianist at The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colo., and The St. Regis Hotel and Hotel Jerome in Aspen, Colo., among many others.

An elementary music educator by trade, Van Devender’s piano music can be heard every Sunday in two different Colorado Western Slope churches. As a recent masters degree in music education recipient, Jeff spends his summers showcasing throughout Colorado and the Midwest in promotion of his CDs “Ascend,” and “Bending Chords.”

Jeff's father, William Van Devender, was a band director in Oskaloosa for 35 years. His mother still lives in Oskaloosa.

Sometimes described as Jim Brickman introduces George Winston to Elton John, Van Devender’s piano melodies are best described as a blending of classical, jazz and subtle rock influences with a touch of soul. A third CD is presently being recorded at Oskaloosa’s George Daily Auditorium and slated for a fall 2009 release on The JavaMusiK Label.