Band Members

Chris is the co-founder and musical director of Funkiphino. Chris plays Hammond Organ, keyboards, sings backup and is the primary songwriter/arranger for the band.

Jessica is Funkiphino’s co-founder and longest-running horn player.  When studying music and art at the University of Colorado, she had the pleasure of directing the University of Colorado “Golden Buffalo” Marching Band for 4 years.

Jason grew up in southwest Wisconsin, and attended Waldorf and Simpson Colleges for his Master’s in Trumpet Performance.  He is a music teacher and marching band Director for Denver Public Schools.

Rich received his formal training from Northern Illinois University, and is an endorser and clinician for Sabian Cymbals, Vic Firth Sticks, Latin Percussion (LP), and HQ Percussion.

Michael seasoned his skills playing with various ensembles in the Denver area over the past fifteen years.  After receiving his degree in Music Performance from Metropolitan State College of Denver, he was recruited to play for Carnival Cruise Lines and Princess Cruise Lines.

Lori is originally from Alaska.  At 16, she began studying classical piano at Interlochen in Michigan. 

Originally from Pittsburgh, Samantha Lerda came to Colorado via Tennessee, where she majored in English and Music Business at Nashville’s Belmont University.