Ohio native, C. F. "Bud" Mayer III brings a wealth of musical knowledge

 and experience to the band. Carl began playing the piano at the age of four,

later developing his unique talent and improvisational skills under

 the tutelage of well-known Cleveland pianist-composer, Joe Howard. 

He studied music and radio production at National Music Camp, Interlochen, MI.

Later he attended Hartt College of Music (University of Hartford, CT)  

where he studied harpsichord, organ, piano, choral music

and conducting while majoring in music theory and composition.

He also studied with world-renowned arranger, Don Sebesky in New York.

Two-time American Song Festival Award winner, Carl has performed

 in clubs, cabaret and theater in the US and Europe as a piano soloist,

accompanist and band leader. Other projects included writing, performing

and producing music for radio and television, including work for

Connecticut Public Television, The Hartford Civic Center and

Aetna Insurance Company. He has worked with major keyboard

and professional audio manufacturers in product development

 and marketing for the music and sound industry.

He has also been associated with various artists and organizations

 including  Bon Jovi, Brian Auger, Larry Coryell, and

National Association of Music Merchants( NAMM ).

He is currently Organist/Music Director for First United Methodist Church

 of Niagara Falls, NY and Music Director for the Niagara Falls Retired Men's

Service Club Chorus. He also served on the board of the  

Niagara Interfaith Chorale and has been musical director for

 Niagara University musicals.

Carl has been one of the original keyboard players for the band

and also for the trop-rock party band Gimme Buffett!

His CD of original piano music, At the Piano was released in 2003.

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