Allen has been playing trombone for 50+ years and has a very diverse playing career, from solo work to symphonic work and all points between. His joy, however, has been playing big band music and jazz and was introduced to that style in 7th grade playing in his high school’s stage band, the “Dillonaires”.
Allen attended Pembroke State University (currently UNC-Pembroke) in the early 1980’s and studied music education. His jazz studies were under Dr. William Fritz, Jazz Band Director and a former member of Stan Kenton’s band, and Vincent Winnies, Professor of Trombone Studies.
After college, Allen continued to enhance his music career, performing in various church ensembles and bands, brass ensembles, and even a Civil War reenactment brass band. In early 1990’s he joined the Florence Symphony Orchestra, in Florence SC, and became principle during his 4-year stint.
He was a founding member of the Florence Area Big Band (FABB) in the mid-1990’s and performed in various local engagements before moving to Tennessee in 1998.
Allen has been a member of SJSB since 2015 but subbed with the band prior to taking over the lead trombone position from Don Jensen, who retired at that time. He took over as Band Leader in 2018 after Tom Breece, former guitarist and band leader moved from the area.
He is married to Amy, and has four adult children.
SOUTH JACKSON STREET BAND