David Bauer, Rob Moore and Russell Schmidt with Ravenscroft
Ravenscroft opened its doors in October 2021 and stands as Scottsdale’s newest premiere music performance venue. It features a luxurious 200-seat concert hall that showcases world-renowned and Grammy Award-winning artists featured in some of the finest Jazz performances in the Phoenix metro area.
Ravenscroft Hall offers an unparalleled musical experience with superb acoustics featuring the renowned Meyer Constellation sound system. Fans enjoy an optimal listening experience and perfect viewing from any seat in this performance space. Some shows also feature projected visuals that accompany the music, creating a multi-sensory experience for attendees.
The performance venue also includes the Jazzbird, a modern lounge themed after an urban New York City jazz club. Jazzbird hosts music from popular and up & coming local musicians accompanied by a fine selection of wine, local craft beers and catered meals for purchase.
Ravenscroft is an outreach of Music Serving the Word Ministries, a 501 (c)(3) non-profit private foundation, and is dedicated to presenting creativity that gives glory to God. MSW was founded by Bob and Gretchen Ravenscroft in 2006. If you’ve ever enjoyed a jazz concert in the Phoenix area over the last twenty years, chances are very good that it was made possible in part or in whole through the philanthropy of Bob and Gretchen Ravenscroft.
As major donors to Arizona State University’s Jazz Studies program, and as founders of a scholarship program for young jazz musicians, the Ravenscrofts have been instrumental in promoting and preserving jazz as an original art form for future generations.
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David Bauer comes from a musical family and started creating music since childhood. He began his piano journey at age 6, picked up trombone and percussion in 5th grade, and always had a passion for singing and keyboards.
His career revolves around creating musical experiences for worship, including large-scale productions over 25 years. Jazz has been a love of his since his teenage years.
As a professional musician and studio artist, David has produced three instrumental albums, arranged hundreds of songs, and scored soundtracks for numerous video productions. He’s even sung commercial jingles for a national production agency.
Since 2018, David has been connected to Ravenscroft, a project that embodies everything he is passionate about – jazz, pianos, performing spaces, architecture, technology, recording, and inspiring concert experiences. He is thrilled to experience and witness this exceptional venue come to life and impact the community in a positive way.
Rob Moore is a multifaceted musician, and currently, he serves as the Director of Music for Ravenscroft in the heart of Scottsdale, AZ.
In this esteemed position, he curates an exceptional musical experience, bringing together some of the world’s finest improvisational artists for the highly acclaimed Jazzbird Nights and the renowned Ravenscroft Hall Concert Series.
A distinguished alumnus of Arizona State University’s School of Music, Rob Moore has solidified his position as an A-list professional jazz drummer in the Metro-Phoenix area. With an impressive background, Rob’s professional experience includes noteworthy stints with the Pro-Audio division of the Yamaha Corporation of America and the Apple Store, where he honed his skills and expertise in the realms of music technology and production.
Rob’s passion for sharing his musical knowledge and talent led him to serve as Adjunct Faculty at Scottsdale Community College. There, he not only taught jazz drum set techniques but also skillfully directed small jazz ensembles, nurturing the next generation of jazz enthusiasts.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rob Moore’s drumming prowess has enabled him to collaborate with some of the finest musical leaders in the Southwest, including the esteemed Bob Ravenscroft. His adaptability and proficiency have allowed him to play a diverse range of musical styles, from jazz to Top 40, captivating audiences with his impeccable groove and artistic expression.
In addition to his involvement in mainstream jazz projects, Rob’s creative bent has led him to explore avant-garde musical endeavors. Immersing himself in projects like Inner Journeys, Trio Oro, and his eclectic electro-acoustic solo project, Momo and the Modern Musical Adventure, he fearlessly delves into new sonic territories, pushing the boundaries of musical exploration.
Even during his leisure time, Rob continues to expand his musical horizons, delving into the realms of sound design and synthesis, enriching his understanding of the sonic landscape. Additionally, he finds solace and inspiration in the great outdoors, indulging in dispersed camping, connecting with nature to fuel his artistic fire.
As a renowned drummer, educator, and curator, Rob Moore’s contributions to the vibrant music community in Scottsdale, Arizona, are immeasurable. His passion for music, dedication to nurturing young talent, and unquenchable thirst for artistic growth make him an influential figure in the world of rhythm and melody.
Russell Schmidt is Co-Artistic Director of the Chamber @ Ravenscroft series (along with ASU Professor of Viola Nancy Buck).
He also serves as Director of Education at MSW/Ravenscroft. In that role he leads the Valley Jazz Cooperative educational outreach program.
Mr. Schmidt is formerly the Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Utah and holds degrees from the prestigious Eastman School of Music (Rochester, NY).
About Our Guest Host
Kindra Maples is spartan racer, past animal trainer, previous magician’s assistant, and has a weakness for Oreo cookie shakes. Her journey working with people actually started working with animals as a teenager (don’t worry we won’t go that far back for her bio).
She worked for over 15 years in the zoo industry working with animals and the public. Her passion of working with animals shifted into working with people in education, operations and leadership roles. From there her passion of leadership and helping people develop has continued to grow.
Then came the opportunity for leading the Culture Crush Business Podcast and she jumped on it. Leadership, growth, and strong company cultures are all areas that Kindra is interested in diving into further.
