Review Centre: Swing Bands

"The Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art have used free outdoor jazz programs to draw the public to their facilities, but representatives of the museums say that this summer sparked a banner year in terms of attendance. “It was incredible,” said Dorrance Stalvey, director of music programs at LACMA. “We had upward of 2,000 people at some shows.” The museum--in its fourth year of offering jazz on a weekly basis-presented such artists as Horace Tapscott, Dr. Art Davis and Cecilia Coleman at its Friday evening shows, and big bands led by Bill Berry, Gerald Wilson and Bill Holman on Sunday afternoon programs. “This program was by far the most successful we’ve had,” said Dawn Setzer, spokesperson for MOCA. “We averaged about 1,500 people a show,” a figure up considerably from previous years’ events. Setzer said the primary reason for the increased turnout was the high-profile strictly-jazz lineup, presented on 11 consecutive Thursdays, that included Charles McPherson, Billy Higgins and Teddy Edwards. LACMA continues its Friday evening shows throughout the year, currently spotlighting a retrospective of bands that have played there, plus new acts. ‘Trane Time: The annual John Coltrane Festival takes place tonight at 8 at the World Stage, 4344 Degnan Blvd. in Leimert Park. On tap will be Ravi Coltrane, Dr. Art Davis’ estimable quintet with Doug Webb and Phil Vieux, and others. Information: (213) 293-2451. Davis will also appear at a benefit for Better Advantages for Students and Society (BASS), which awards a scholarship in his name. The event takes place on Sunday, 4 to 7 P.M., at Diva, 600 Anton Blvd., Costa Mesa."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The Sydney Jazz Collective was completely outstanding. Great liaison prior to our event and everything went smoothly on the night. Seamless setup, great variety of music and the band helped with the backing of a special number sung by the guest of honour on the night. Great musicians and great music of the highest calibre. I will recommend to all my friends."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Sarah travelled to Settle to sing at my mum's funeral last week and her vocals were amazing and added so much. She helped me with the song choices, singing Somewhere Over the Rainbow during the service and Nella Fantasia unaccompanied at the graveside as well as leading on hymns and songs during the service. From the first time we spoke her warmth and compassion was clear and really helpful to me. As for her vocal, her voice is simply stunning and it added so much to the occasion, everyone there was deeply moved by them. I know my mum would have loved and it helped to make her send off so beautiful. Thanks so much Sarah for being part of it. Debbie Fox"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We had the pleasure of having this wonderful band perform at our wedding reception, and they exceeded all expectations. Their professionalism, talent, and ability to set the perfect mood throughout the evening were outstanding. Our guests kept complimenting the music, which truly made the celebration even more special. We highly recommend them to any couple looking for live music that is both elegant and memorable"

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"Romantic trio, heavenly tunes for our reception! Loved them"

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"Great gig at Room 43. Great atmosphere, fresh music and tight band. Crowd loved them. Please come again Pete! Vera Butler"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"While I’m here, a quick word of thanks for Trip for Biscuits. The music at our wedding at Maunsel House was amazing as was the energy from the band. We have received so many compliments from our guests and everyone had a great time (as you can see from the videos now posted on the website!!!)"

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"What an amazing singer this lady is! Had her at my club doing a jazz evening and will definitely be booking her again!"

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"Pete and Frankie make an excellent, up-beat sound suitable for many occasions. They were well organised and professional I would recommend them to anyone. (10 / 10)"

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"Great meeting [the musicians]. Both [singer] and guitar/harmonica player were excellent! "

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"Kevin is incredibly talented! We hired him for our wedding ceremony & aperitivo and he was fantastic. He was also great communicating with and made everything super easy and very professional. Highly recommend!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Thank you for an amazing gig on our Peaky Blinders night. We had lots of good comments about how good the music was. You really help make the night a success."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Marcella Puppini's new album is a crowning glory..."

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"Gerard was absolutely wonderful! I listened to his music through his website and enjoyed it but it was even better listening to it in person. We had a chef prepare our dinner but the soft music in the background just made the evening. I would highly recommend him for any occasion. If we didn’t live in the U. S. I would do it sooner than later."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Hi Darren Wanted to thank you for performing at my party,everyone enjoyed your singing,you helped make my night special. So once again thank you. Regards, Olga (10 / 10) Olga B"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: