History And Styles Of The Modern Big Band

960 Special Topic, Non-Musician

In the 1950’s, the big band moved from the dance hall to the concert hall. Arrangements became more complex and adventurous; these were not your father’s (or grandfather’s) big bands. This class will study some of these great bands, including the 1950’s Basie Band, the Buddy Rich Band, the Maynard Ferguson Band, and the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Band. Extensive videos and recordings will show the power and complexity of these bands and many others.