For 15 years, Craig Buhler was first tenor sax with Sequim’s Stardust Big Band which he directed for 8 years. He was also co-director of the Northwest Big Band Workshop and director of the 2 big bands at Camp Heebie Jeebies. Craig currently directs the Road Scholar Big Band Workshop hosted by Hidden Valley Seminars in Carmel, CA. Among his 30 recording credits are 9 CD’s under his own name. Craig is a charter member of the acclaimed California rock band HONK, which toured nationally with the Beach Boys, Loggins & Messina, Chicago, Santana, and others before audiences of 10,000+. HONK has released 5 CDs, and continues to sell out San Juan Capistrano’s Coach House as well as other California venues.
Craig is the author of 2 books on music. “New Ears Resolution” is a revolutionary new ear training method which has proven effective with scores of students on many instruments. “Keys to Music” is a complete course in jazz woodwind technique which includes 54 original etudes. Each collection comes with an accompanying CD.
Craig is featured on the wonderful debut CD by Sarah Shea and her quintet. Pianist Al Harris (pictured below, right) produced the recording. Chez Jazz — featuring Craig on woodwinds — appears regularly around Western Washington as a trio, quartet, or quintet. Sarah offers a wide variety of compositions from the Great American Songbook, including songs by Gershwin, Cole Porter, Hoagy Carmichael, and Richard Rodgers. Upcoming performances are listed on our “events” page.
Craig is former Worship Director for the Vineyard Christian Fellowship of Seattle. He has played for international Vineyard worship conferences as well as 70+ NW congregations, for whom he was occasionally invited to also preach. In addition to Craig’s three original worship recordings, he appears on CD’s by Vineyard artists Andy Park, Kevin Prosch, & Brian Doerksen. Craig has presented his 2-day “Total Immersion” seminar for worship musicians to churches in five states. After serving for eight years as Worship Leader at The Little Brown Church of Blyn, Craig joined the worship team at Dungeness Community Church. He is now Worship Leader at Sequim Bible Church.
Craig’s “Jazz For Youth” band performed at over a hundred school assemblies, religious conferences, and civic functions.
He is former Woodwind Instructor for Mills Music stores in Bothell, Redmond & Lynnwood, WA, and now offers private instruction in clarinet, saxophone, flute, ear training, and improvisation at his studio in Sequim, WA and via Zoom.
In 1979, Craig toured & recorded with British singer Ian Matthews. Before this, he spent four years with the jazz group “Storyville,” which released an LP and appeared all over California, including concerts with Dizzy Gillespie and the Crusaders.
As a UCLA music major, he studied clarinet with Mitchell Lurie, saxophone & flute with Bill Green, ear training with Alvin Learned, and composition with Paul Chihara & Doug Leedy. In 1987, he earned a Master of Science degree in forest resources from the University of Washington.
Craig Buhler lives in Sequim, WA with his bride Faye (pictured below). His late wife Molly raised their 4 cats and trained Benny Good Dog to be a great dog. In addition to daily music practice, he continues with his favorite hobbies: hiking, swimming, Bible study, and reading.
A photo journey of Craig’s early musical life
as reported by Perucci Ferraiuolo in the “NW Christian Journal” 2001
A popular mainstream artist with his own jazz group and with the successful rock band, “Honk!”, as well as an in demand Christian music minister, Craig Buhler’s mastery with wind instruments has garnered for him a reputation as one of the Pacific Northwest’s premiere artists – a label he quickly denounces.
“My music is a gift from God,” he says. “Since it’s from Him, it’s for His glory, not mine. Music is intended as a tool to advance the Kingdom of Jesus, not for ‘the cause of Craig Buhler.’ Whatever musical expertise I have, I know God gave it to me for the benefit of others. I get great satisfaction in knowing that my music pleases someone, but I get more fulfillment realizing that it has helped someone come to know and love Jesus.”
Can a Person Do Both?
Some would say, however, that Buhler is compromising. After all, he plays both Christian AND jazz music and enjoys a solid reputation with both Christian and jazz musicians.
Can a person do both? Buhler philosophizes. “What makes music (especially instrumental jazz) ‘Christian’?” he asks. “J.S. Bach’s work was commissioned by the church – that’s how he made his living. In fact, that’s how most composers up until about 1700 made their livings. After the Reformation, the secular nobility gained greater influence, and the great composers were hired by them. But many of these musicians were still Christians, and their music still radiates the love of Christ.”
“I try, with everything in me, to glorify God with every note … regardless of what band I’m playing with or what sort of audience is before us.”
Early Years
Buhler grew up in Newport Beach, California, becoming a professional musician at the wise old age of 13. His first clarinet ‘gig’ was with “The Downbeats” serving up New Orleans Dixieland at school dances and luaus. From there, Craig took up saxophones and contracted surf fever with “The Viscaynes.” But R&B grabbed his ear, and he joined “Yes Indeed,” playing Hollywood’s hottest haunts – like the Whiskey a Go Go – and recording with “Jackson 5” engineer David Hassenger.
While majoring in musical composition at the University of Redlands and UCLA, Craig gained a deep appreciation for such diverse forms as Gregorian chant, baroque organ music, Twentieth Century twelve tone, and serious electronic music.
It was during the UCLA years that Craig was profoundly impacted by the strong, resonant tone of his saxophone teacher William Green. Mr. Green was a virtuoso woodwind player who, while running from studio to studio participating in many of the major motion picture soundtracks of the 60′s still found time to offer weekly lessons to LA’s young musicians for a whopping $8.00 per hour
Two years on the road with a top-40 group called “Shepherd” constituted a “musical boot camp”. They travelled the West Coast, playing 2 weeks in Phoenix, 4 weeks in Boise, to service men and secretaries seeking friendship in back alley taverns and large dance halls.
Honk! 
However, it was joining the Laguna Beach based “Honk!” band that gave Buhler a taste of the success and recognition that were waiting for him. “We really hit it off,” he remembers. “We toured nationally with ‘the Beach Boys’ and other major acts and headlined all over California and in Hawaii. My musicianship got more professional, and my mind focused completely on music. In the past twenty plus years, ‘HONK!’ has released four albums (for Epic Records, Twentieth Century Records, and Restless Records), and we continue to play 1 or 2 concerts per year.”
“Honk!” was just the spring board Buhler needed. He recorded with several California bands, and spent 4 years working with the jazz group ”Storyville.” In 1979, he recorded and toured internationally with Ian Matthews. But it wasn’t until 1982 that he discovered God’s plan for his talent.
Born Again “I had attended Episcopalian grammar school,” he says. “I studied the Bible and sang in church choir throughout high school. But Christ touched my heart in ‘82 in a way that previous ‘head knowledge’ had only hinted at. Jesus gave me a direction and a purpose I had sought after my whole life. Since then, He has been teaching me about vision – that inner sense of His purpose for ones life and ministry.”
Peaks and Valleys As with most artists turned Christian, Buhler went through a series of peaks and valleys in his career – some that shook the foundations of his faith. The valleys taught him. “For one thing, you learn trust,” he mentions of the lean times. “Those hard places have given me humility and fear of the Lord. Prayer has become a lifestyle, whether I’m on top or hovering just off the ground. Prayer is what a Christian does – it’s what his life is about. I used to be cocky – but God has a way of humbling one. An interesting paradox is that when God humbles a person, He does it not to tear down but to build character.”
And what if lean times plague him again? He shrugs. “The Bible says we must decrease if Christ is to increase. It also counsels us that if we seek God’s kingdom first, everything we need will be added to us. A full commitment to Him influences the way you react to trials and how you use them for the glory of God. Jesus said that in this life, we’ll have tribulation, but he also said not to fear, because He has overcome the world. What else could you possibly need?”
“Renewed Hope”
Christian Recordings In keeping with his total dependence on God, Buhler recorded his first solo C.D., “Peace Like A River,” which gave a foretaste of his ministry side. With songs like “Abba Father,” he reached out to those who have lost their earthly fathers, telling of a Heavenly Father who loves us and wants to embrace us. And tunes like “Fixed On You” addressed discouragement, despair and depression with the promise that fixing our mind and eyes on God will see us through our calamities. The album, which was critically acclaimed, garnered lots of regional airplay, and gave Buhler the reputation of being not only an exceptional musician, but also a gifted arranger, producer, and songwriter.
“My initial motivation for writing songs was to help me memorize and immerse myself in God’s Word, so all the lyrics in those early songs came from Scripture.”
Ministry on the Road “I led a 5-piece band which traveled to Washington State churches for 3 years, and it was a great experience. However, the band tended to isolate me from the local church family, and building lasting relationships is really central to this ministry. So now Molly [Craig’s wife] and I lodge with church members wherever we go, and I use the local worship team as my band. Hopefully, Molly and I can minister to them, and we are definitely blessed in the process.
“Our attitude is that we are guests in our hosts’ church home. Accordingly, we try to show respect for the customs and values which they value. As Christians, we are called on not to ‘argue about disputable matters,’ but to stick to the basics: the Lordship of Christ and the authority of His Word.”
Tools of the Trade Among his arsenal of wind instruments are soprano, alto, and tenor saxophones, clarinet, harmonicas, and flute. Listeners take notice when Craig plays 2 saxes at once!
In addition to regional concerts, Craig travels with other Christian artists and has ministered at conferences in Germany, Canada, and throughout the U.S.
With the Clouds of Heaven His second solo C.D., “Clouds of Heaven,” has received radio play on several stations. “The emphasis is on encouraging the discouraged. I also try to resist the trend toward isolation and alienation – promoting unity within the Church and a renewal of marriage vows and family commitments. ‘A cord of several strands is not easily broken’.”
The “Total Immersion” Worship Seminar In addition to recordings, touring, and a commitment to his home church, he has developed a workshop for worship musicians. “I call the 2-day seminar ‘Total Immersion,’ because I believe that worship is too important for us merely to wade around in it. When a musician gives his life to Christ and decides to serve Him through music, he becomes hungry for more knowledge, direction, and a clear vision.”
The seminar focuses on the five major relational challenges faced by a worshipping musician – learning to listen to God, developing communication & teamwork skills, musical expertise, ministry, and capturing the spirit of a worship song.
Jazz For Youth Recently, Craig has begun to bring jazz to school children. “Of course, we are not allowed to preach Jesus in the public schools. However, I seek to present the young people with a positive adult male role model, a thing which some of them have never experienced and which all children need.”
Teaching in Christian Schools In September 1997, Craig dawned yet another hat, this time as a science and band teacher at local Christian schools. “I need to stay in touch with today’s young people. Hopefully, I can be a positive adult role model to them, while, at the same time, learning many important lessons from them.
“After a year in the classroom, I realized that the most effective way for me to reach young people is one-on-one. Accordingly, I am now teaching woodwinds privately, and I love it! Private instruction is the best vehicle for me to mentor and encourage aspiring musicians.”
Musician, singer, producer, writer, and teacher – Craig Buhler has been given the tools to build an enduring ministry. But he continually eschews the values of the world as his focus echoes the sentiments of celebrated hymn writer, Charles Wesley – “O for a thousand tongues to sing my great Redeemer’s praise.”
CRAIG BUHLER JAZZ 
Hi Craig,
talked to Steve this afternoon and heard the sad news.
Lily and I send our love to give you a little comfort.
The way life is we did not have too much time to spend together,but the moments we were able to share back in Newport/Laguna have been special moments for both of us,which we will keep in good memory.
God bless and our prayers and thoughts are with you.
If you have a chance to come to Buenos Aires be our guest!
Lothar and Lily
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no problems craig…
i was just looking at your website and i tear up when i see that picture of you and molly….how creative with the plants as a proposal…life is so unfair…i know you must be struggling and i don’t know why this kind of thing happens….i read the article about her in the gazette also…what an amazing woman who did so much good, amazing…i’m so sorry i didn’t get to know her better…but when i did meet her the couple of times, i liked her very much.
i don’t think anyone will forget about her death…i think some people just don’t know what to say to you or to somebody who has dealt with such a loss…
anyway, i just think you are one of the most talented, intelligent people i’ve ever met, and i don’t understand why bad things happen to good people…i’m glad you are continuing doing music and staying busy…i’m sure that is what molly would want.
and i do feel we get along great and i will be authentic..i don’t like the fake stuff either…
there is a man who wants your band to play in seattle at a boat party on lake union in early feb….i gave him your website
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Love this site Craig. It was a wonderful visit today. I’m so sad about Molly. She really got me through a bad time when she prayed with me at the Coach House. I enjoyed our visit so much when the two of you came up to the house. We never stopped talking. I felt as if I had met a really good friend. My prayers are with the both of you. We know her Father is taking good care of her. Please do the same for yourself. Love.
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Dear Craig, I am so sorry for your loss. Words are not enough.
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Hey Craig,
Great to hear from you.
Please feel free to call.
Your friend in Jesus,
Doug Wight
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Oh Craig,
We just learned of your loss, and I am soo, soo sorry to hear the news! Molly was an AWESOME! woman – and you could see it every time she worked with the kids in Sunday school – I had that pleasure a few times with her, and I am soo sorry to hear of this. I had written to let you know I had mentioned you in an article I wrote recently, but that seems so unimportant now. I hope and pray that God be with you in this time in your life! Again I am so sorry to hear the news!
P.S. If you need to get away – we are here for you! Just give me a call or show up!
Patrick Siegmann
http://www.headabovemusic.com/less-is-more-creating-your-web-presence-by-patrick-j-siegmann
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thank you for your kindness, Patrick. One simply puts 1 foot in front of the other and tries to carry on. my church has been wonderful. and the music is a comfort.
cb
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May God and the love of your friends and family lift you in spirits. I pray for your healing each day.
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Craig, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Molly. It has come as a shock to me when I learned of the fact from a former Seattle Vineyard musician.
I pray the Lord’s strength will be your portion as you heal from the great loss.
Your friend,
Al
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Thank you for your loving words, Al. As you know, Molly was especially fond of you. She would want me to remind you how much you mean to both of us.
love, cb
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Hey, Craig! I have to confess that I’m the former Vineyard musician that told Al Teoh the news about Molly. He and May are now part of our home fellowship so we see a lot of each other. I was extremely saddened when Shannon told me of your loss. I’m so sorry. My niece passed away the day after Thanksgiving and my mom just passed away in January, so I have some sense of the pain you feel. I have been praying for you, my friend. Molly was a ton of fun and you have always been a delight. I pray that the Lord continues to wrap you in his Arms of Love. With much love in Christ, Don
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Dear Don,
Thank you so much for your beautiful note. Today is our 15th anniversary, so hearing from you on this day is a gift from God.
As worship leader of our little church, it has been a great pleasure to introduce these folks to the wonderful Vineyard tunes which you taught me over the years, many of which are still printed on your letterhead. These are the amazing compositions from the early 90’s, not the commercial stuff that’s coming out now. i have attempted to forge a completely integrated set – avoiding the “us & them” generational gap which crops up in some churches. In each of our 5-song sets, we aim to move seamlessly between the elequant Episcopal hymns (like “Holy, Holy, Holy”), the cornball Pentacostal hymns (like “In the Sweet Bye & Bye”), what i call the “Don Nagy tunes”, a few carefully selected current hits (like “How Great the Father’s Love for Us”), and about 25 of my originals. Altogether, i guess we have about 150 tunes. Did Paul give you a copy of “Renewed Hope”? i would be so eager to get your feedback on this material, since you were the early influence which shaped my worship aesthetic. So glad to hear you continue to persevere with your fellowship, as you are a blessing to all who worship beside you.
love,
cb
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Hello Craig, No wonder you are in my thoughts and prayers more than ever! And on this special day, It is your day to celebrate the beautiful life you and Molly shared. We all lift you in spirits, and the gifts of God are abundant. Prayers for your continued healing.
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Dear Sherry,
Thank you for your prayers and kind words. There is a bit of sunshine in the sky. Just finished teaching. Will take Benny Good Dog for a walk in the woods before the Stardust big band rehearsal tonight. Will try to remember the good times and not stress over the current lonliness, trusting that God has a plan and that His will is to bring us joy, not pain.
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Hey, Craig. Ben MacRae has put me in to you. I’m the minister with Brentwood Presbyterian Church up here in Burnaby, BC, where Ben is getting involved and where his new big band will be based. I’ll send you a Facebook invite, just in case you’d like to keep tabs on us. Also, our website below will give you a sense of how the Trinity Trio is guiding us into the welcoming, wondering, wisdoming, and witnessing of Christian discipleship especially through what Christopher Small calls ‘musicking.’ It’s a real blessing to have in the mix.
In Christ’s reconciling grace
Brian
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Hi Brian,
Good to be in touch with you. Perhaps i visited your church when i was travelling with Andy Park’s worship team. Ben is a fine musician. When we last worked together, i was unaware that he was a Christian. It is a great blessing to learn that he is harnessing his talent in the service of worshiping Jesus.
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Craig,
Just read your full bio which tells me so much more about my old friend from Newport Beach. I have always known you had special talent but I did not know all of the details. Your music has always been impressive and your Christian dedication is inspiring. Would love to see you on Kaua’i where you could meet our Church (Wai’ oli Hui`ia Church in Hanalei) and some great people on island. My wife and I have a guest room. I did not know about your loss and send you deep love and aloha. Duncan
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Aloha, Duncan,
What a wonderful New Year’s surprise gift to receive your encouraging letter tonight! You were always on the short list of NHHS guys I admired and looked up to.
Hanalei is one of my favorite spots in the world. Our band “HONK” headlined a concert in Honolulu in 1975, after which we spent 10 glorious days in that island paradise. While there, a friend and I took a magnificent overnight hike on the ocean trail which – at that time – was the end of the road.
I believe Honk’s drummer, Tris, lived on Kaua’i for a season. I was in Maui 10 years ago for a concert and recording session with Steve Grimes but have not visited Hawaii since.
I did remarry after the tragic loss of Molly, and Faye and I will be coming up on 10 years in April. If KOVID permits, and if that is a convenient time for you, perhaps we can drop by for a visit. We’d very much love to attend your church, but we would not want to impose on you.
Warm greetings,
cb
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Dear Craig Buehler,
I am a historian of psychology from Germany and the question arrises to me, if you are the son of Rolf D. Buehler and a grand child of Karl and Charlotte Buehler? If this is the case, I very much like to get in contact with you.
Kind regards,
Armin Stock
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Thank you, Professor. I will reply in an email.
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Good morning Craig,
My wife Joy and I were driving along I-5 the other night and out of the blue your name popped up. It was really cool talking about the time you visited our church in Lynnwood. Or the time we were riding through Sequim and ran in to you as you were finishing up a Bible study at a friend’s house.
So, this morning I did a quick Google search which led me to this website. Ain’t technology wonderful!
We appreciate you and the many gifts you bring to the body.
Blessings,
Bob and Joy Hekker
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Dear Bob and Joy,
What a blessing to hear from you both after all these years! Your powerful ministry undoubtedly continues to bear much good fruit. Still involved in prison ministry? With Greg VanTobel?
In addition to http://www.craigbuhler.com, you will be interested in https://dcmworkshop.com/, my ministry site.
My latest offering is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exKGoZCyYfM
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