Big Band Concert: The Riff Runners Return to Angelina College

There's a new sound coming from a familiar favorite in Deep East Texas. The Riff Runners have a completely updated Community Big Band concert coming.

Read More: Free Big Band Concert: Riff Runners Light Up Lufkin 

There are familiar faces, notably Band Leader Dixon Shanks and the Dixon Chicks, Debi Shanks, Angie Garner, and Anya Lundberg.  It is a family affair with Sid and Robert Shanks all joining in with the finest musicians in Angelina County and surrounding areas.

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You can see them live for their Spring Concert Series coming up on May 2, 2025 at 7:30 PM at the new and improved Hudgins Hall at Angelina College. Admission is free, thanks to Casa Ole' currently celebrating their 40th anniversary.

Big Band Brings The Energy To AC

This community service endeavor could not happen without the support of Angelina College and more specifically, Beckie Compton. Their help has brought Dixon's vision and new ideas to fruition.

Keep Reading: Catch This Community Band Show In Lufkin, Texas 

Thanks to them for giving this free show to the community, while keeping the musicianship and level of production high. Attending this performance is how you support the arts, while you are entertained.

Their next show will be October 18, 2025, so if you don't want to wait that long, make your plans now. Here is the list of all of the amazing members of the big band.

THE RIFF RUNNERS

Band Leader: Dixon Shanks

Saxophone: Paul Berler (Lead Alto), Michael Parrish (2nd Alto), Jimmy Simmons (1st Tenor), Scott Floyd (2nd Tenor), Beth Girardi (Baritone)

Trombones: Luke Vacca (Lead), Ken Barnes (2nd), Robert Shanks (3rd), Jimmy Battle (4th)

Trumpets: Steven Brown (Lead), Michael Johnson (2nd), Ricky Gay (3rd), John Cavanaugh (4th)

Rhythm Section: Eric Chinn (Keys), Andrew Kingston (Bass), Joe Sykes (Guitar), Mark Saldana (Drums), James Marshall (Percussion), Even Cantu (Percussion)

Featuring: Dr.James (Jimmy) Simmons / Gary Weldon

Special Guests: Ted Skorman, Herb Williams

The Dixon Chicks: Debi Shanks, Angie Garner, Anya Lundberg

Sound/Lights: Sid Shanks