Put down the rake, back away from the birdfeeder, and pick up your dancing shoes. It is time to put some bounce into your spring.
The SF Jazz bands are ready to serve up a night of Bebop with “Jazz Up Spring.” The music starts at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 1, in Santa Fe College’s Building E Auditorium on the Northwest Campus, 3000 NW 83rd St., Gainesville.
Throughout the evening, hits from jazz masters such as Duke Ellington and Count Basie will be performed by Santa Fe Big Band, the Jazz Combo, the Rhythm ‘n Blues Band and the Swing Choir. This annual performance is free and open to the public.
There will also be a bake sale as part of the Big Band’s efforts to raise money for its upcoming trip to New York City to perform at Carnegie Hall as part of the DIScovering ABILITIES Conference. The conference will include a combined performance between the SF Big Band and musicians from the Sidney Lanier School in Gainesville. The Sidney Laneir School works with intellectually challenged youth. The performance shows how music can bridge the gap between individuals no matter what their background.
“Music is one medium that can break down all barriers,” said Steve Bingham, director of the Santa Fe Big band.
Swing Dancin’ to the Big Apple April 2
The very next night, April 2, Santa Fe’s 18-piece Big Band will be holding a trip fundraiser at the Thomas Center. “Swing Dancin’ To The Big Apple,” kicks off at 8 p.m. with a two-hour performance of some of the best-known songs from the Big Band era. Couples will be invited to cut the rug to standards like “Sing, Sing, Sing,” and “Route 66,” in the historic building. Admission is $10 and light refreshments will be served.
CONTACT:
- Steve Bingham, director of the Santa Fe Big Band, (352) 381-3862 or steve.bingham@sfcollege.edu
- Alora Haynes, academic chair, Fine Arts, (352) 395-5296 or alora.haynes@sfcollege.edu
- For help facilitating your story, contact David Hackett, communications specialist, College Relations, (352) 256-3424 (cell) or david.m.hackett@sfcollege.edu, or Julie Garrett, 352-870-2924 (cell) or 352-395-5430 (office)