Group History

The AVI8ORS perform in public for the very first time at, of all things, a wedding dance in an airplane hanger! Pictured with the singers is Al Barnard at the keyboard.

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“Ya gotta start someplace”

The Avi8ors Ensemble was founded in 1999 by its director, Bob Moser, born of his love for the history, the people and the music of the World War II era. In his own words, ”We owe so much to the patriotic and unselfish people of this era. At the very least, we need to preserve this wonderful music and remember the sacrifices they made for us, both on the frontlines and in the support effort on the home front." Consequently, he wrote the group’s tag line: “Celebrating the Music of the Greatest Generation”

Bob first conceived the idea for the group in the 1980s and the desire persisted. Having lived and performed in the Omaha area since 1985, he felt he finally had the contacts and friendships forged to pull it all together.

In 1999 he sought the help of his longtime friend and singing partner, Ardeth Ohm and assigned her the task of Assistant Director. Bob also knew he wanted Paul Ronhovde and Janie Sandoz in the group, having performed with both and knowing their terrific stage and vocal talents.

While Bob and Ardeth sat at lunch one day, trying to decide whether the fifth voice should be male or female, into the café walked Becky Sheets with her smooth alto sound and the decision was made. The vocalists were set.

He then recruited the assistance of his friend Allen Barnard, a lifelong music educator and choral director in the Omaha area, to help with the vocal rehearsals. The singers “gelled” immediately. The smooth and even vocal blend was exactly what Bob had sought for this style of music.

Choosing the first 2/3 of the Jazz Trio was a snap. Bob and Ardeth had both worked with and respected Tim Tyler, and there is no better or experienced keyboard talent around. Janie’s husband Tom Sandoz was an automatic choice as the percussionist. Tom is a terrific and well known, first call drummer in town and loved the Big Band Era. The talented Jerry Devore later joined the AVI8ORS as bassist and the vocalist now include Pam Kragt and Diane Thomas along with Bob and Ardeth.

Within two months the group was performing before audiences, getting rave reviews and the group’s repertoire and awareness quickly grew. Now in their 7th year, the AVI8ORS have become a favorite group for many. Without advertising, or even a listing in the phonebook, the AVI8ORS reputation and renown has exploded.

Crowd response has been heartwarming. Memories seem to flood the members of the audience as their music is brought back to life. Not just played on a sound system or stereo, but performed live, right before their eyes, just as it was in the 30s and 40s. The group has created this unique experience for so many different types of crowds… from high school history and music classes, to military reunions, to corporate banquets, to anniversaries, to retirement centers, to veteran’s groups, to anniversary and birthday celebrations. The group now travels from shore to shore sharing this wonderful era with people of all ages.

If the first 7 years are any indication of the future, it looks as though the AVI8ORS may be performing this wonderful music for a long time to come… and loving every minute.