Officers and Vocalists

Co-Director Dan Kehoe

Dan Kehoe, NRBB Assistant Director, (piano) is Founding Director of the Around Town Singers and Orchestra (ATS&O) of Clayton, and a church organist and musician for more than fifty years. He is a nationally known carillonneur, and has composed, arranged, and recorded songs for choir, band, jazz ensemble, and churches. This season he is also the Interim Director of the Johnston County Chorus. Dan brings to us his extensive show production experience and his distinctive piano stylings.

Founder David McGowan

David McGowan, (trumpet and MC) is one of the founders of the Neuse River Big Band—not a pro trumpeter, just grateful to have this wonderful group together. He currently serves as the Band's Treasurer. He is a former Baltimore City Police Detective, US Army aviator and member of the Wilson's Mills Town Council. He was also the Public Address Announcer for the Baltimore Orioles baseball club for 14 years.

President Tracie Thomas

Tracie Thomas, (saxophone) recently retired as Vice President of Marketing for Boon Edam Inc. Like many community band players, she played in high school and college and took a multi-decade hiatus, returning to music with newfound enthusiasm. Tracie volunteers at the Sharp 9 jazz club in Durham, and also plays saxophone with the Raleigh Concert Band and The Overtones saxophone quartet.

Meet Vocalist Meredith Calton

Meredith Calton is a proud wife and mother of two. She is a resident vocalist of NRBB and the Around Town Singers as well as a songwriter. Meredith is a current member of the First Baptist Church of Clayton Choir. She has performed with the American Music Jubilee in Selma NC, The Campbell University Choir and The Campbell University Wind Ensemble. She has studied music at Campbell University and Music Business at Middle Tennessee State University.

Meet Vocalist Karen Pahl

Karen Pahl is a Raleigh native known in the area through her involvement with the Johnston County Chorus and the Around Town Singers. She has performed in the Triangle area for over 25 years, including her seasons as the full time anthem singer for the Carolina Hurricanes. Karen has her mother and aunts to thank for her vocal talent and is excited to sing with the Neuse River Big Band!