About The Downtown Collective Band
In 2016, two musicians who loved music and jamming in the attic, marked the beginning of The Downtown Collective Band. After starting with small gigs doing hybrid DJ/live music performances, the Collective grew as more friends from music school and work got together to make the jam bigger. Fast forward to today — we are known as one of the top bands in the Midwest.
The same love for music and performing that brought us together in the attic, is the same love we bring to your dance floor. We simply love playing live music. Creating an authentic atmosphere where joyful connection can happen between you and your guests is always our goal. Your memories and moments matter!
“The same love for music and performing that brought us together in the attic, is the same love we bring to your dance floor.”
Our magic is putting people first. When reading the crowd, we can mix a set list to match any vibe utilizing some of the most talented musicians in the Midwest. Once our band starts playing, the stage and dance floor sparks into a community of people having the night of their lives!
We are a cover band with style, putting our signature spin on each song we play for you. What might normally be a synth part in the original song might be played by our horn players instead. And when we’re really feeling funky, we go from cover song to jam session so the whole dance floor can get down. We love to party with you—it’s what makes our performance stand out!
Ether - Owner, co-founder and singer
Born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, Ether Saure is the owner, co-founder, and a performing musician with The Downtown Collective. His love for music began early, inspired by his mom who always had music playing—at home, in the car, everywhere they went. Ether grew up listening to artists like Stevie Wonder, Boyz II Men, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston, shaping his deep appreciation for soulful melodies and powerful vocals that continue to influence his style today.
Known for his passion for live music and attention to detail, he brings energy and heart to every performance. Ether’s favorite styles to play include R&B, Motown, Soul, Funk, Pop, Rock, and Jazz—especially with a full band featuring rich vocal harmonies and a powerful horn section.
Before founding The Downtown Collective, Ether appeared on ABC/Disney’s national reality TV series High School Musical: Get in the Picture in 2008, showcasing his talent on a national stage.
When he’s not performing or managing, Ether enjoys life as a husband and father of two, taking road trips, gaming, watching anime and Marvel or Star Wars shows, and writing original music for his solo and group projects
Cornell - Co-founder and singer
Cornell Leffler is the heart of the party and a driving force behind Downtown Collective Entertainment. Born and raised in Lincoln, Nebraska, Cornell’s love for music started early—grooving to disco and Michael Jackson songs as a kid, and recalls that as being his first introduction to music and singing..That early passion evolved into a lifelong appreciation for live performance and a magnetic stage presence that continues to captivate audiences at every event.
Known for his infectious energy, natural charisma, and keen sense of crowd dynamics, Cornell brings a one-of-a-kind vibe to every show. Whether he's leading a wedding reception or energizing a corporate crowd, his focus is always on creating unforgettable, joy-filled moments. He’s also deeply committed to pushing the boundaries of live entertainment, constantly exploring fresh ways to elevate the experience for clients and guests alike.
Off stage, Cornell is a proud father of two, a devoted movie buff, and an avid anime and video game fan. Ask him about his favorite films and be prepared for a spot-on quote delivered with perfect timing—cinema is his second language.
