ABOUT
The Get Happy Jazz Band is a unique, instrumental band located in the hills of Chattanooga, TN. Get Happy's distinctive sound is kindled by a belief that music should be fun and bring joy to others. Get Happy uses a method of collective improvisation to blend traditional jazz, gospel, spirituals, country, et al to create an original style of music - the "Happiest Music on Earth!"
The Get Happy Jazz Band began in May of 2020. During the pandemic lock down, Kimberly, RubyMarie and Jim Altenberg were all at home desiring an activity that would inspire joy. Playing music was a past-time they could enjoy together. They gathered their collection of saxophones and settled on Traditional Jazz. They were drawn to the music's cheerful sound. Soon they added a trombone and a banjolele by inviting Gordon and Velma Willis (Kimberly's parents) to join them.​
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After several weeks of practicing, they mastered a handful of songs. Kimberly's vision became sharing the joy of their music with others who were lonely during the lockdown. She called her idea "Jazz Caroling". They travelled to shut-ins and "Jazz Caroled" on the front lawn. Word quickly spread, and soon requests from families were flooding in.
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The Get Happy Jazz Band quickly developed a strong, local following and area businesses and festivals hired them to play. The band expanded again adding more instruments: Dr. Barkey Bryant (trumpet); Seane Crews (wash board and percussion). This is when The Get Happy Jazz Band began perfecting its current, unique sound.
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