recorded and performed as part of an ensemble

The band also drew on influences from reggae to jazz to progressive and pub rock . While maintaining the main band, Police members continued to moonlight within the art rock scene. In late 1977 and early 1978, Sting and Summers recorded and performed as part of an ensemble led by German experimental composer Eberhard Schoener ; Copeland also joined for a time. These performances resulted in three albums, a mix of rock, electronica and jazz. Various appearances by the Schoener outfit on German television made the German public aware of Sting’s unusual high-pitched voice, and helped pave the way for the Police’s later popularity.