About
A creative, jazz composer, saxophonist, and photographer with a passion for disruptive technology and immersive experiences that move the needle. Based Tampa, Florida, Rich currently leads multiple jazz groups of his own and works as a freelance composer and saxophonist. Rich studied under five-time Grammy nominee Chuck Owen, and has performed alongside notable artists like Jim McNeely, the late Richard Davis, “Blue” Lou Marini, Chris Vadala, and Steve Davis. He has also performed at various festivals including the Clearwater Jazz Festival, Montreux Jazz Festival, Jazz à Vienne, and the North Sea Jazz Festival
With a diverse portfolio in arranging for jazz ensembles, choirs, church ensembles, and film, he boasts a wealth of experience in musical composition and arranging and his ability to tailor music to various settings underscores his versatility and creative dexterity. Currently, he welcomes opportunities for commissions and arranging endeavors and projects that demand innovative musical solutions.
Rich holds a Doctorate from the Institute for Worship Studies in practical liturgical theology, with an emphasis in aesthetic worship theology. He is passionate about creating immersive worship experiences that holistically integrate the arts ways that engage participants through all the senses. He holds two master’s degrees (M.M in Jazz Composition and Saxophone Performance) from the University of South Florida, and a dual bachelor’s degree (B.M. in Jazz Studies and Saxophone Performance) from Hope College.
Rich has also served as the Worship Arts Director in various churches in the PCA, RCA, CRC, and most recently at Tampa Covenant Church (EPC) in Tampa FL. In addition to his experience serving in churches, he works in various capacities as a community activator for the arts, fostering “creating culture,” with many professional artists, musicians, designers, and creatives. He is the co-founder and Creative Director of OPUS Tampa, a visual arts-based organization that works to support and foster excellence in the visual arts in the Tampa Bay area through exhibitions, lectures, and hands-on events and experiences.
The Bands
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The Mars Trio
The Trio consists of Saxophone, upright bass, and drums and features a clean, sophisticated sound with arrangements of everything from jazz standards to the latest Dua Lipa! Casual, black tie, or club date, the perfect clean sound for any event!
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The Forefront
Having performed together for over 15 years, The Forefront is a creative outlet for art music. The group includes Matt Mill on trumpet, Rich Van Voorst on saxophone, John Clarence O’Leary III on piano, Alejandro Arenas on bass, and Mark Fineman on drums, focusing on avant-garde and jazz-purist compositions.
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The Quartet
The Trio+1 typically featuring the addition of piano or guitar: a fuller sound than the trio but with a similar repertoire! We love to play club dates but still perfect for any setting. This group is currently working on a record to be released in mid 2025!
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Analog Feast
The largest of the ensembles that includes some of the best improvisers in the Tampa Bay Area! Analog Feast performs large-group arrangements of contemporary jazz in various styles performing concerts, clubs, and festivals.
Let’s work together.
Feel free to reach out for booking inquiries or commissions. I currently welcome opportunities for commissions, arranging endeavors, and creative projects that demand innovative musical solutions.