Wayne Lage

If you’ve ever heard a central Iowa big band, you’ve probably heard Wayne “Doc” Lage! For more than 50 years, Wayne’s feel and sound has either led or rounded out the saxophone section.

A native of Hubbard, IA, Wayne’s career as a musician flourished during his Navy years working with the Ray Anthony and Tex Beneke service bands.

While attending the University of Iowa, Wayne began playing with the likes of the Hoy, Killinger and Zarnow bands.

In 1957, Wayne moved to Des Moines to establish a dental practive and continue his playing with area bands. The list began to grow – the William Tell Orchestra (now Big Band Sound), the Variety Club Orchestra, and the Des Moines Big Band, which he joined as a member in 1966.