A.J’s Big Band is celebrating its 25th Anniversary in swinging style during 2009 with a schedule of concert and dance dates at venues across the Westcountry.
Since its formation in1983 the Devon based band has maintained an enviable reputation in its presentation of swing and jazz classics. The band is named after its founder Alan (A.J.) Hempstead who sadly died in 1996 aged 59. It was in 1985 that A.J’s Big Band was chosen to play the on stage role of the Glenn Miller Orchestra in the world premier of Little Brown Jug at the Northcott Theatre in Exeter. The show was so successful its run was extended. The band’s popularity grew rapidly with 1940’s theme nights which became a feature in the 80’s and 90’s with some memorable VE and VJ day celebrations.
The band is made up of musicians of all ages. It has released five recordings over the years, the latest being the aptly named ‘The Many Sides of A.J’s’. Under the leadership of Ken Parr, Head of Devon Music Services, and himself a talented saxophonist, the band blends stunning ensemble work with exciting jazz solos. The instrumental line up is complimented by A.J’s featured singer Paula Mitchell with a fusion of beautiful ballads and up tempo numbers.
Ken Parr says: ‘A.J’s Big Band prides itself on creating excitement and enjoyment for audiences through playing good quality music which breathes new life into familiar arrangements and challenges both players and listeners with fresh and exciting solos. We are all so pleased that we are still performing after 25 years of playing across the Westcountry and beyond.’
The Band makes a welcome return to Teignmouth’s Carlton Theatre for an afternoon concert on Sunday 22nd Februaryat 3 p.m.
Ticket reserve £10.50 Box office 01626 778991
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Tags: ajs big band, carlton theatre
