Jazz Portraits was formed four years ago, and has received two consecutive two-year grants from the South Dakota Arts Council. During this time period the band has performed for the Sioux Falls JazzFest, 1st Nite Sioux Falls, South Dakota Public Radio, numerous private parties/receptions, concerts sponsored by arts councils and other agencies, and has frequently performed in public venues such as the Touch of Europe Restaurant and the Riverwalk Cafe.  The Jazz Portraits rhythm section has accompanied Matt Niess, lead trombone with the U.S. Army Band jazz band "The Army Blues", based at Ft. Myer in Arlington, Virginia.  The band has also combined concerts with workshops for music students in various high schools throughout the region.