Introduction: Kansas City Jazz

1917-23: Local 627 & the Early Jazz Bands

1924-28: President Shaw

1929-35: Territorial Bands & A New Headquarters

1936-41: 627 Stomp

1942-50: War Years & the Aftermath

1950-60: A New Generation & President

1960-70: Merger of Local 34 & 627

Mutual Musicians Foundation: The Tradition Jams On

Dave Lewis Band

Saxophonist Dave Lewis led the Jazz Boys, one of Kansas City's earliest jazz bands. Organized in 1917, the seven-piece band played for dancers at the McHugh Dancing Academy at 15th and Troost. The Jazz Boys featured young musicians fresh out of Lincoln High School, including Walter Page (bass), Leroy Maxey (drums) and DePriest Wheeler (trombone). Lewis disbanded after losing the steady engagement at the Dance Academy and returned to his hometown, Chicago.

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