Big Band Gala: what’s in store

This year’s Big Band Gala, on Wednesday 5 June, is going to be a particularly exciting occasion; conductor Ian Swatman explains why…

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The annual Big Band Gala – what a finale!

The end of the academic always comes around so quickly and, this year, as with every year, there’s an element of sadness as we say goodbye to various players.

However, what better way to say goodbye than by playing some great music with three of London’s top players. I’m so pleased to announce that joining us for our Gala performance on Wednesday 5th June will be the tremendously talented and incredibly groovy Deptford Rivieras.

Led by Jools Holland tenor player and arranger, Phil Veacock, with Gary Baldwin on Hammond organ (rated by Time Out magazine as “..the Grand Master of the Hammond Organ..”) and Alan Savage on drums, these players have the dream musical CV’s.

Ranging from BB King to Al Green, George Benson to Freddie Mercury these guys have played with the best and now it’s the UKC Big Band’s turn!

The Deptford Rivieras have just been in the studio completing their first album and Phil is producing some Big Band arrangements to provide a fitting finale to another tremendous year here at the University. I can’t wait!!

Tickets go on sale very soon – don’t miss out….