Shepparton Jazz Orchestra has announced details of an upcoming performance, with a promise of tunes for everyone.
The program will feature new vocal and instrumental arrangements of jazz classics, as well as favourite tracks from the band’s current repertoire.
With the concert theme of ‘rediscovering jazz classics’, audiences can expect to hear iconic songs such as Take the A Train, Stompin’ at the Savoy and Take Five.
Lead alto saxophonist Brian Matthews said the band had been hard at work in preparation for the concert this Sunday, December 8.
“The band’s been busy,” he said.
“They had a bit of a lay-off in the middle of the year, but we’ve been busy rehearsing, with the final rehearsal on Tuesday.
“There’s a lot of music in the program for everybody, even a bit of rock and roll.”
The band will have special guest vocals by local singer Rachel Head, who will bring more well-loved tunes such as Misty, Moonglow, Fever and Let the Good Times Roll.
Mr Matthews said the band existed due to its members’ love of music.
“We all just love this style of music, and we wanted to start a group with quality musicians in the area,” Mr Matthews said.
“It gives us a chance to play the big band music we love to hear and to introduce it to a younger audience.
“It’s a unique style of music for the area.”
The concert will be at the Tatura Hall on Hogan St, Tatura with a 2pm start; however, Mr Matthews said the concert was just one part of the day’s experience.
The band encourage audiences to support local businesses by grabbing lunch at the local pub, enjoying a coffee at a café or going shopping before the curtains open.
Entry to the concert is free, a privilege Mr Matthews attributes to local government.
“The council art grants funding had enabled us to grant free admission and pay expenses for the band, such as travel,” he said.
For more information on the band, head to its Facebook page.