The Capybara Coalition
Why we are
The Capybara Coalition is a group committed to the creation of memorable music, played with a flair for originality and, while versed in and respectful of musical history, shuns repetition and stagnation. We enjoy swimming, and food, and use these pursuits to fuel our musical creativity. Focusing on jazz and funk, with a focus on improvisation, The Capybara Coalition takes pride in listeners becoming fans, and we often are told, “I didn’t like jazz till now.
With over 200 combined dog years of performing, The Capybara Coalition will not disappoint.
Who we are
Steve Hayward - Percussion
Steve Hayward began playing reeds, clarinet and tenor sax, and gradually wore his parents down at age 15 and began drumming. He has played in groups in Southern California, Northern California, Pennsylvania and New Mexico, and has studied with drummers Akira Tana, Alan Hall, Allison Miller, Scott Amendola and Dave Hawkes.
At home Steve serves as a loyal attendant for two independent, bossy, and strong-willed little dachshunds called Frank and Gnocchi.
Steve’s favorite tree is the Bonsai.
John Ady - Bass
John Ady is a busy bassist in Modesto, CA. After attending CSU Stanislaus he has played Electric and Upright Bass in a wide range of styles including Afro-Cuban, Jazz, Theater pits, pop, Assyrian Pop and Gypsy Jazz. He enjoys the variety of music he has been blessed to be able to play.
He has backed up and recorded with world class artists such as John Faddis, James Moody, Carol Channing, Ashur Bet Sargas, Linda George, Mic Gillette, Ed Thigpen, Walter Aziz, Clark Terry, Bill Watrous, Gigi Gonaway and many others.
A Father of four, owner of 2 dogs and random cats, he is also an avid gamer and sci-fi fan (Prot Paladin FTW)
John's favorite tree is the Dragon's Blood Tree.
Rick Russell - Winds
Rick Russell is an active music educator and jazz saxophonist in the Northern California region. After graduating from University of the Pacific in 2004 he’s performed with bands such as Malo, The Melodians and other more locally based big bands that have allowed him to branch out of the norm.
Exploring the language of music through composition and improvisation is a milestone in his process as a musician.
Rick's favorite tree is the Redwood tree for its strength and longevity.
Nate Henderson - Keyboards
After early exposure to music in church, Nate Henderson dove head first into the world of jazz during studies at San Joaquin Delta College and later at California State University Stanislaus.
A staple of the Central Valley jazz scene for the past 15 years, Nate can be seen performing with the Turlock Jazz Collective, the St. George Trio and the Capybara Coalition.
“You keep it simple and lead with an uncomplicated electric piano that shows off your serious jazz chops” -Jean Dear
“Love those tasty keys!” -Wolfman Love
Nate's favorite tree is the Olive Tree
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