City Rhythm Salute to the Big Bands

It is always a wonderful evening of music when City Rhythm revisits the music that started it all from the great big bands of the 1930’s and 40’s. The orchestra has one of the nation’s most extensive collections of authentic big band arrangements with over 10,000 original scores. This gives the musicians a chance to either present a variety of swing hits, or focus on one particular band or arranger.

The Benny Goodman salute has been a popular show as it recreates the famous Carnegie Hall concert with “Don’t Be That Way”, “Sing Sing Sing” and all the rest. A serious look at Duke Ellington’s work is also an amazing presentation. The complex scores and great opportunity for expressive jazz solos create perfect material for the band. Going back to 1999 when City Rhythm honored the Duke’s 100th birthday, the band has earned a reputation for their meticulous approach to his music.

One of the all-time favorites of City Rhythm is the Count Basie band. They’ve got all the charts from Buck Clayton to Neil Hefti, and swing like mad during show. This can also include renditions of the Count’s famous collaborations with top vocalists such as Ella Fitzgerald, Joe Williams, Frank Sinatra and others.

There is no limit to the shows that City Rhythm can create in recognizing the great big bands. Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, Harry James and all the rest are “in the book” and ready to take you for an awesome night to the Swing Era.

Visit www.cityrhythm.com for more information!