Our Story
Meet the Band
World-class musicians. Decades of experience. One unforgettable sound.
About the Band
Jazz That Moves the Room & the Soul
Denise Choate & The Not Just Jazz Band is a polished, audience-first ensemble rooted in the American jazz tradition — and gracefully beyond it. From swinging standards to Brazilian bossa nova and sultry Latin jazz, every performance is crafted to elevate the atmosphere and connect authentically with the room.
Nominated for Best Jazz Band 2025 at the Modesto Area Music Awards (MAMA), the band has performed at some of Northern California’s most prestigious venues — from the Ritz-Carlton to Evergreen Lodge Yosemite — earning a reputation for professionalism, musical excellence, and genuine crowd connection.
Vocalist & Bandleader
"The Voice"
Known throughout Northern California as “The Voice,” Denise Choate is a soulful and expressive jazz vocalist with impeccable phrasing and natural stage presence. She moves seamlessly from intimate ballads to swinging passages, connecting authentically with every audience regardless of size or setting.
Deeply dedicated to the jazz tradition while bringing her own unique interpretation to every performance, Denise has the rare ability to make a room of strangers feel like old friends by the end of the first song.
In addition to leading the band, Denise is a dedicated vocal coach, helping students of all levels find and develop their unique voice.
- MAMA Nominated — Best Jazz Band 2025
- Performed at The Ritz-Carlton, Evergreen Lodge Yosemite
- Regular performer at Jazz Cellars & Intermission Lounge
- Vocal coach & music educator
Keyboards, Vocals & Co-Leader
Mark Gee
Pianist • Arranger • Musical Director
A versatile and deeply musical performer, Mark Gee began his musical journey as a jazz saxophonist before mastering keyboards in the early 1990s. That foundation gives his playing a distinctive melodic sensibility — he thinks like a horn player but voices like a pianist.
As co-leader, Mark handles musical direction, arrangements, and the creative architecture that makes every performance feel intentional and alive. His repertoire spans jazz standards, Latin, bossa nova, blues, and contemporary material.
- Formerly with the Mario Flores Band
- Performed with DJ Slate, Rocket 88
- Columbia Jazz Band alumnus
- Over 30 years performing across Northern California
Bass, Vocals & Arranger
Clinton Day
Bassist • Jazz Pianist • Educator
A musical virtuoso with over four decades of professional experience, Clinton Day brings a depth of musicianship that elevates every performance. Holding both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music from Columbia College, his credentials span performance, composition, arranging, and education.
Clinton currently teaches bass, jazz piano, and music theory at colleges and universities throughout the region, bringing the rigor of academic musicianship to the bandstand every night.
- B.A. & M.A. in Music — Columbia College
- Faculty at multiple Northern California colleges
- Career roles as bassist, pianist, vocalist, arranger & studio musician
- 40+ years professional performance experience
Ready to Book
Experience the Band Live
Available for wineries, corporate events, weddings, private parties, restaurants & festivals throughout Northern California.