As a duo, M.a.R. has thirty years of combined performing experience. Recent graduates of UW-Green Bay, M.a.R. uses the skills learned under the UWGB music faculty as well as bringing a flair of their own to their performances.

On an individual basis, Matt Hillman, the guitarist, collaborates regularly with Appleton’s Big Band Reunion, The Peguero Sisters, Funk Trunk, Unified Soul, The Noble Brothers, and many others. Rissel Peguero, the vocalist and pianist, collaborates mostly with The Peguero Sisters but has sung in many events, including UWGB’s Jazz Fest.

M.a.R.’s style is rooted in the steps of famous jazz artists, including (but not limited to) Joe Pass, Betty Carter, Ella Fitzgerald, Jim Hall, Cyrille Aimee, Stevie Wonder, Mel Torme, Bill Evans, etc. Putting an even more personal aspect to their music, M.a.R. incorporates Spanish and Portuguese lyrics into their sets to add an ethnic touch.