Charles 'Doc' Rutherford

One of the more influential teaching icons of the Western U.S. was Charles “Doc” Rutherford, who taught for 31 years at Orange Coast College, Costa Mesa, CA. He passed away September 10th at 85. This man helped many of his former students launch their successful careers, including Tom Kubis, Ben May, Ron Stout, Tom Margitan, Eric Stiller, Francisco Torres, Eric Marienthal, Ron Levy, Jeff Jorgenson, John Ferraro, Paul Kreibich, Gary Gould, Mike Higgins, Alan Yankee and Darrel Gardner. Frequent guests at Rutherford's concerts included Bill Watrous, Pete Christleib and Don Menza.

The memorial concert was held in the Robert B. Moore Theater on October 9th as an appreciation of “Doc” Rutherford on O.C.C.’s campus, with several hundred in attendance – many of whom were former students. The program began with a tasty video of many parts of Dr. Rutherford’s life. Vocalist/bassist Cathy Ann Laurie did the emcee duties of the afternoon and provided an excellent overview of Dr. Rutherford’s musical career. A family reading was given by Duane Tudahl, providing earlier history of Doc Rutherford. He also made a novel statement, saying that “the country would be better off run by musicians rather than politicians.” Fellow musician and friend, Dan Jacobs, gave an inspirational talk, saying Doc was always focused, dedicated and productive, and then introduced the alumni big band. Among others who spoke on Rutherford’s life and many experiences were Gerard Hagen, Alan Remington, Ron Stout, Eric Marienthal, Gary Gould, Ron Levy, Paul Bastin and Angela (Rutherford’s caregiver).

Rutherford was not only a performer on alto sax but also an excellent composer and arranger. Director Paul Navidad has been leading the alumni band for several years since Rutherford’s retirement. Members of the alumni band included Darrel Gardner, Matt Fronke, Charlie Peterson, Gary Halopoff, Dan Jacobs and Ron Stout (trumpets/flugelhorn); Paul Bastin, Eric Marienthal, Steve Hommel, Gary Gould, Al Yankee and Ed Peffer (woodwinds); Ben Olariu, Dana Wheaton, Mark Kafesjian and Len Wicks (trombones); John Campanella (bass trombone); Ron Levy (piano); Dave Murdy, (guitar); Ernie Nunez, (bass); Paul Kreibich and John Ferraro (drums); and vocalist, Christine Rosander. Additional vocalists performing in other parts of the program were Elena Gilliam and Peggi Hillis-McDonald.

This first set swung into play (all Rutherford’s favorites) “Groovin’ Hard,” “Easy Living” and “Straight No Chaser.” Many of these great musicians soloed during these and others tunes in additional sets throughout the afternoon.

“Doc” Rutherford’s jazz combo of several years was made up of Ron Levy (piano); Tom Kipp (sax); Brian Barrett, (guitar); Nick Schaadt (bass) and John Ferraro (drums). Of three pieces these guys played, a highlight of the afternoon was a gorgeous version and arrangement by “Doc” of “Stella by Starlight.”

The alumni big band played a second and third set. Christine Rosander sang “Over the Rainbow” in her freestyle form in the second. The ensemble backed her spendidly. The third set featured Ron Levy leading the group in a stellar performance of one of Rutherford’s favorite creations (in Levy's own fine arrangement), “Freedom Chant.” The Navy Honor Guard honored Rutherford’s military service and gave the flag to his longtime companion, Marah Kucaj-Oseland. Taps was played beautifully by Dan Jacobs with a background echo played by Darrel Gardner. The audience gave a standing ovation for the closer, “Amazing Grace,” played in a solemn spirit and then a nice, swinging, hard shuffle to finish the dedication and appreciation to Dr. Rutherford.

A scholarship fund is also in place and donations can be made to the OCC Foundation with “Doc Rutherford Jazz Scholarship” written in the memo section of check. Donations should be sent to OCC Foundation, 2701 Fairview Rd., Costa Mesa, CA 92626.

To be published in the LA Jazz Scene December 2010 issue, and posted with permission.

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