A favorite mainstay of the Portland jazz and festival scene, smooth jazz guitarist Dale VanWormer has become one of the region's musical ambassadors. Opening for such acts as Kenny Loggins, The Brecker Brothers' Steps Ahead, and performing at private functions for several Hollywood stars, VanWormer and his tight, talented outfit have even played for president Clinton, having been chosen by the white House staff as the favorite Northwest musician to perform.

Dale's roots reach back to the early history of Portland rock and roll, where he spearheaded the local jazz-rock movement in the 70's. His stint at the Willamette University under the tutelage of legendary guitarist, John Doan, saw Dale develop what was to become a trademark sound: "harp-style" guitar. Inspired by Doan's mastery of the 20-stringed harp guitar, Dale applied similar playing techniques on the 6-string guitar, such as letting plucked notes "ring through" as other notes were played, creating a pleasingly large harmonic sound. Dale recorded his first CD, "Harp Style Christmas" in 1993, utilizing these techniques. The popularity of the sound inevitably led to a band situation, and Dale's jazz-rock roots were given the opportunity to shine, framed by some world-class local talent.

Two critically acclaimed albums followed: 1994's "So Good" and 1997's "Between the Lines" have seen frequent airplay on jazz and adult contemporary radio stations across the Pacific Northwest. Dale and his long-time band are regulars on local television, often providing the soundtrack to morning shows and regionally produced specials. Dale's all original compositions, impeccable performances, and open, easy-going personality earned him top billing at many prestigious festival events in Oregon and Washington, as well as private celebrity casuals.