By Fred L. Jones, Jr.
Eagle Staff Writer
fjones@theoklahomaeagle.net
Tavis Minner, with his soulful melodic vocals and spontaneous scat singing, and Rick Fortner, with his virtuoso piano skills that integrate jazz, pop and classical styles, will come together on June 16 at 7:30 p.m. at All Souls Church in Tulsa, Okla., “One More Time” to celebrate close to twenty years of performing the music they love and do so well. Tavis is moving out of state and this will be one of the last times to enjoy he and Rick playing together for a while.
Tavis is a singer, songwriter and music educator. Tavis is a graduate of Spiro High School, Northeastern State University, with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Vocal Music Education, and a Master’s Degree in Education Administration from Southern Nazarene University.
Tavis has performed as a featured soloist for the Oklahoma Hall of Fame Awards, the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, the Tulsa Opera and much more. He is also a creator of various commissioned children’s music for educational consultants in California.
As the music educator for Tulsa Public Schools since August 1997, he’s been the recipient of the “Teacher Award for Excellence,” “Teachers Touching Tomorrow Award,” and the “2004 Teacher of the Year for Tulsa Public Schools.”
On May 17, 2014, Tavis was given an Annual Eminent Educators Award by the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc.
“In high demand and known for their soulful renditions and jazzy spontaneity with familiar jazz standards, Rick Fortner and Tavis Minner became a popular jazz duo.” They have performed in many Tulsa venues and for many benefit programs.
Presently, Tavis is preparing for a Music Tour in Japan in 2018.
This incredible event also features Matthew Edwards on drums and Nathan Eicher on bass, two more of Tulsa’s finest. Rick and Tavis’ “One More Time!” is a celebration of music and friendship that you will not want to miss!
Tickets are $20.00 and are available online through Eventbrite or can be purchased at the door the night of the show. For additional event information call 918-812-9902. Seating is limited so get your tickets now!
