Results for "Big Band"

The Dorsey Brothers

The Dorsey Brothers, Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, were influential American musicians and bandleaders who played pivotal roles in the swing era of the 1930s and 1940s. After initially performing together in various orchestras, including that of the Paul Whiteman (known as "The King of Jazz"), they formed their own bands in the late 1930s. Tommy, a virtuoso trombonist, and Jimmy, a talented saxophonist and clarinetist, each led successful ensembles, with Tommy's band renowned for its smooth, polished arrangements and Jimmy’s for its more vibrant, jazz-infused style. While they eventually parted ways professionally, both enjoyed prominent solo careers—Tommy in the big band world and Jimmy in jazz

Harry James and His Orchestra

Active since: 1939

Harry James' orchestra, formed in 1939, was one of the prominent big bands of the swing era. Initially a section leader in Benny Goodman's band, James quickly established his own ensemble, which became known for its vibrant brass section and energetic performances. The band featured notable soloists, including vocalists like Frank Sinatra and Helen Forrest and instrumentalists such as saxophonist Corky Corcoran, and achieved commercial success with hits like "You Made Me Love You" and "I Had the Craziest Dream." Known for its solid blend of jazz and popular music, Harry James' orchestra remained a significant presence in the swing and big band scene throughout the 1940s and beyond, adapting to changing musical tastes while maintaining its distinctive style.

Ambrose

Born: September 11, 1896

Bert Ambrose (known professionally as Ambrose) was an English bandleader, violinist, and composer, known for his influential role in the jazz and swing music scenes. Born in London, he moved to the United States in the early 1920s, where he became a prominent figure in both the jazz and dance band worlds. Ambrose led his own orchestra in the 1930s, performing at major venues and recording extensively. His skillful violin playing and knack for arranging contributed to his success, and he worked with a variety of well-known artists during his career. Ambrose's orchestra was recognized for its polished, sophisticated sound, which bridged the gap between dance music and the growing swing era.

Thomas Matta

Thomas Matta boasts a body of work as a musician that spans an impressive spectrum of genres, styles, and disciplines.

An active performer, Thomas has trotted around the globe with his bass trombone in tow, and is one of the most sought-after bass trombonists in Chicago's recording studios, concert halls, theater pits and other live-music venues. Thomas has performed and recorded with a diverse array of talents including the Woody Herman Orchestra, the Frank Mantooth, Rob Parton, the Chicago Jazz Orchestra, the Chicago Jazz Ensemble, the Mulligan Mosaics, Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Johnny Mathis, Hug Jackman, The Who, Yes, Aretha Franklin, Art Garfunkel, Jimmy Heath, Frank Sinatra, Jr., Michael Feinstein, Fulcrum Point, The Colorado Symphony, Concertante di Chicago, the Ravinia Festival Orchestra, the Chicago Philharmonic Orchestra and many others.

John Mills Times Ten

Active since: 2011

Times Ten – A 10-Piece Jazz Fusion Powerhouse by Composer John Mills

Discover Times Ten, Austin’s iconic 10-piece jazz fusion ensemble led by saxophonist and composer Dr. John Mills. Celebrating 16 years, this powerhouse group brings Mills' original compositions to life with intricate arrangements and dynamic performances, featuring a lineup of exceptional jazz talents.

Cassio Vianna

Born: July 30, 1976

Cassio Vianna is a pianist, arranger, music educator, clinician, and a Latin GRAMMY-nominated composer whose work reflects a broad range of musical and cultural influences. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Vianna started his music studies in classical music, while developing his skills as a composer and interpreter of popular music and Brazilian jazz. Between 1993 and 1995, Vianna studied under Hungarian teacher Ian Guest, who had a great impact on Vianna's decision to pursue a career as a composer.

​From 1996 to 2009, Vianna engaged in recording and performing projects in the vibrant Rio de Janeiro music scene, including a successful career with the Brazilian jazz trio Dialeto Brasileiro

Jean-Philippe Larpin a.k.a. JP Larpin

Born: March 22, 1960

Born in a musical family (father drummer and mother singer) he fell into jazz at a very early age. Later on he turned to drums as there was always a set at home. Played in Switzerland a lot in clubs, festivals (Montreux, Cully) and onstage with local guys or passing by foreign musicians. Among others : Curtis Fuller, Walter Davis Jr, François Lindemann, Bob Mover, Dee Daniels, Liz McComb, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Bruce Forman, Thierry Lang, Big Band de Lausanne, Montreux Big Band a.o. Relocated to beautiful Vancouver, BC in Canada since 2017, he keeps playing in various bands and with local musicians (Cory Weeds, Sharon Minemoto, Steve Maddock, a.o.).

Anthony G. Bailey

Born: December, 1974

With over 25 yrs. experience playing Trumpet & Flugelhorn, Anthony G. Bailey has performed in Atlanta & all over the Southeastern United States. He joined the African American Philharmonic Orchesta (AAPO) under the direction of John T. Peek in 1997. After three years with the AAPO, he became the lead trumpeter for the orchestra. Working with this group gave him the opportunity to perform with world renowned artists such as The Temptations & The Dells. Recently, Anthony has been on stage with International Recording artist Les Nubians, & has performed (& recorded) with Anthony David

Peg Delaney

Levi Saelua

Born: May 17, 1990

Levi began his musical studies at age 6 with the Sacramento Taiko Dan under the direction of Sensei Tiffany Tamaribuchi. At age 9, he began studying saxophone and, five years later, arranged his first piece for jazz combo while attending Rio Americano High School. Upon graduating from Rio Americano's internationally distinguished jazz program, Levi furthered his music education at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, studying saxophone with Chien-Kwan Lin, Jose Encarnacion, and Charles Pillow, and jazz composition with Bill Dobbins and Dave Rivello. As a student at Eastman, Levi had the opportunity to work with artists such as Bob Brookmeyer, Maria Schneider, Bill Holman, Ryan Truesdell, Jeff Beal, and many others