SEEKING
Vocalist, Vocalist - Baritone, Vocalist - Tenor, Vocalist - Soprano, Bass Guitar, Drums, Other Percussion, Trumpet, Saxophone, Keyboard, Piano, Background Singer, Flute, Vocalist - Alto, Trombone, Upright bass.ABOUT
Hi Fellow Musicians,
I'm interested in starting a big band jazz (BBJ) group that would play a variety of charts--everything from WWII-era to a reworking of some modern covers. I envision a year or so of once a week rehearsals in preparation for the wedding and amphitheater circuit spring 2011. I have a nice rehearsal spot lined out.
I am a drummer and keyboard player, but I'd like to work as a band leader in assembling and leading the band, writing arrangements, getting gigs, yada, yada . I've assembled a big band before, and I've played professionally for years. While I don't have a music degree, I do have quite a bit of college-level training in music.
Here's what I'm looking for musician-wise:
* 2 trumpets
* 1 trombone
* 2 saxophones (sop, alto, bari, mix?)
* 1 clarinet
* 1 - bass (upright or electric or both)
* 1 - acoustic drums & toys
* 1 - electric rhythm guitar
* 1 - piano / keyboards
* 3 - female singers
* 1 - male singer
Ideally, I'd like it if some musicians were comfortable subbing on another instrument (e.g. sax or clarinet person OK with flute). I'd like musicians to be able to read charts as well as do some improv. I'd prefer a pianist that was comfortable with keyboards for occasional strings or other parts. Singers need to be comfortable with harmony parts with lots of solo work.
I cannot pay anything for the time being. This work is strictly voluntary--you're doing it because you love BBJ and you want to work in a BBJ group. However, I would anticipate paying gigs down the road.
There is no age limit: If you've got the licks and you like swinging jazz, this might be the right group for you.
I'm after the retro scene--trying to recreate the days and mood of the golden era of big band. More details on that at our first band meeting.
If you're interested in such an effort, please drop me a line at bheldman or give me a shout at 303-877-3266.
Thanks,
--Bill Heldman
- Screen name:
- BillHeldman
- Member since:
- May 15 2010
- Active over 1 month ago
- Level of commitment:
- Moderately Committed
- Years together:
- 1
- Tend to practice:
- 1 time per week
- Age:
- 68 years
Influences
Tommy Dorsey
Glenn Miller
Count Basie
Harry James
Buddy Rich
Duke Ellington
Members Of Band
Currently I have several interested guitarists, vocalists and trumpeters - need more to round out the band.
