The “Big Band Era” transformed popular music in the United States throughout the first half of the twentieth century.
As the United States reeled from the Great Depression, big band music became increasingly popular. Led by bandleaders like Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, and Chick Webb, the big band era thrived throughout the 1930s, inspiring new popular swing dances like the jitterbug and the jive.
During World War II, big band music dominated the airwaves. Popular vocalists like Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra brought a new element to the jazz orchestra sound. By the late 1940s, however, the swing era was coming to a close. New York musicians and bandleaders developed a new style called bebop, a complex form of jazz, that gained popularity for a time. Although the big band genre never regained the popularity it had at its peak, younger musicians like trumpeter Thad Jones and drummer Buddy Rich started their own big bands, continuing the tradition during the following decades. This evening the Lighthouse Big Band will be performing music of these favorite big bands for your listening and dancing enjoyment!
Date: Tuesday, February 28
Time: 7 PM – 9 PM
Bar Opens: 6 PM
Price/Tickets: Free Admission
Location: Fountain City Jazz and Dance Club
