On April 12, 2008, Jon Welch was invited to conduct the Police Big Band of the German state of Schleswig Holstein for a concert they were giving with the German soul singing sensation Stefan Gwildis.  The program included soul classics such as "I Heard It Through The Grapevine", "Chain of Fools" and "How Sweet It Is To Be Loved By You" in their new German versions from Stefan's gold-selling 2003 CD "Neues Spiel".  The roaring and sophisticated big band versions of the titles enthralled the audience and Stefan worked his magic as both entertainer and edgy-voiced soul recording artist.  The band was full of compliments for Jon's excellent musical direction. "That was the highlight of our year," commented one musician.  "It was loads of fun to work under Jon's very capable direction and I think we even benefitted together as a band for the future.  He's a great bandleader and musical director."  Jon came across so well that the Police Big Band of Schleswig Holstein has already asked him back for a workshop and concert and would like him to write some new material for them.  "The band really rose to the occasion to accompany Stefan," said Jon.  "Those charts are hard and the players were able to follow my suggestions and immediately integrate them into their performance.  It was a very "soulful" evening and I wouldn't be surprised if Stefan has a few new big band fans in his camp."