Big Band gets in the swing at annual gig

Featuring music from 1911 through to 2013, the Ripponden based big band will showcase the changing faces of jazz and swing through the ages.

Starting in the early days of ragtime and the Charleston, the programme will progress through the golden age of swing, move into the blues, pass into the funk era and finish with a couple of toe-tapping modern day classics.

Along the way, Robert Gee will perform a trio of Frank Sinatra standards and Shelley Davies will sing three iconic vocal numbers.

With music from the likes of Irving Berlin, Count Basie, Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, John Coltrane and many more, there will be something for all tastes and jazz styles. Tickets for the concert, which starts at 7pm, are priced at £9.

Calderdale Big Band started in June 2002 under the name of the Calder Valley Youth Dance Orchestra. After gaining quite a reputation for its excellent playing on the local music circuit, the band changed its name in 2006 and welcomed players of all ages - from 13 to 70!

To book contact the Playhouse box office on 01422 365998, online at www.halifaxplayhouse.org.uk or call band leader Geoff Atherton on 01422 824242.