Just Friends is a combo that began when several local musicians got together to play American popular tunes from the 20th century. The group evolved to include five members:

Cindy Pedder playing C flute, alto flute, and bass flute
Rebecca Hartong playing C flute, alto flute, and piccolo
Phil Hunter playing six string and twelve string acoustic guitars
Jan Bender playing string bass
Terry Bender playing percussion

We play American popular songs from the 1920’s thru the 1960’s. The sound is smooth and the tunes themselves are “just friends”...melodies that have been tested by time and are comfortable to enjoy over and over. The programs include the music of Tin Pan Alley, songs from old films, top record hits, jazz classics, and swing band favorites. In other words: Music from America's Gold Age of Song!

We offer two kinds of programs:

For our concert style performances, we include music from all 5 decades with a variety of styles and tempos. And, we tell you the fascinating stories behind the songs, composers, lyricists, and performers.

Our music can also make a pleasant background for a reception or other large indoor event. You'll recognize the tunes even if you don't recall the titles. For example, for an event such as an art show reception, we would play more contemplative tunes such as Autumn Leaves, Ebb Tide, Moonlight Serenade, and Deep Purple. For a peppier event, such as a party, our program could include Tiger Rag, Stompin' at the Savoy, Take the "A" Train , Night and Day, Sweet Georgia Brown, Sunny, and Sitting on Top of the World. Some events call for up tempo music at the beginning and music with a slower tempo toward the end. We can do that, too.