The Jazz Lite Trio*** is a Lima, Ohio based group that has been playing in and around northwest Ohio since the mid 90's. The group consists of founder and vocalist, Tesa James; Don Hurless on Keyboards, and several different bass men, (depending on availability).

Tesa James has lived and performed in and around the Lima area all of her life. Included in her list of accomplishments are appearing as the opening act for Ray Charles and singing for President Reagan. She has written many songs, and a children's musical, as well as a cassette tape for children entitled Car Tunes. Tesa owns several businesses, including an Advertising Agency, called Ads Alot. For nearly ten years, she published a monthly Arts and Entertainment guide, called Marquee Magazine, and is the owner of Metroevents.com, which provides both web storage and website design. Currently, Ms. James is a substitute teacher in Logan County. She teaches Tai Chi privately, as well as at local YMCAs and YWCAs. Ms. James also owns Jordan Videographies, a business that transfers still and moving images to DVD.

Don Hurless has also lived and performed in the Lima area all of his life. As well as teaching piano, Don has produced a 4-tape Video series of Jazz and Improvisational Keyboard techniques called Pianarobics. He has written for the Lima Symphony Orchestra on numerous occasions and has his own CD, Don Hurless Sings and Swings.

Jazz Lite's Bass Men: (varies on availability)

Scott Rogers is from Defiance, Ohio. A high school band instructor, not only does Scott play upright bass, but flute, trombone and sax as well! We hope to get him doing some more vocal duets with Tesa James.

Emil George is from Wapakoneta, Ohio. We never know which bass Emil will bring to the gig, and sometimes, even he can't decide and brings more than one. Sometimes, a five string, or a six string bass!

Ed Zickafoose is from Lima, and brings not only a great bass technique to the gig, but also a unique sense of humor and always a cache of new jokes. Ed also plays Keyboard when Mr. Hurless is booked elsewhere with other groups.

Glen Poling lives in the nearby community of Van Wert, Ohio. Glen's unique and rare white and black Ibanez double neck guitar allows Glen the freedom and versatility to switch back and forth between guitar and bass within the context of any song. Poling has played professionally since 1939. He also brings his flugel horn along to the gigs, and occasionally pulls out his valve trombone! Don and Glen have been playing in gigs together for over thirty years.

***Note: When space and budget allows, the trio can expand to quartet, quintet etc. to include drums, horns and more! Just let us know what your needs are and we will try to accomodate them!