Category Archives: Big Band

Photos: Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra 2013

Posted on March 10, 2013 by Gandalfe

   More photos of the Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra from the  David Nadalin and Nadalin Photography.

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MJJO at the Jumpin’ Jive to Thrive dance 2013

Posted on March 4, 2013 by Gandalfe

Suzy joins me on tenor for this event. I *really* like performances where she can make it. Since she works nights, she isn’t always available.

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Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra

Posted on January 13, 2013 by Gandalfe

“Talking about music is like dancing about architecture.” ~ Thelonious Monk Here is one of the videos we made of the Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra last year. Enjoy.

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Lesson One: Fronting a band at a Bar

Posted on January 5, 2013 by Gandalfe

“People don’t dance to brilliant guitar solos or heady changes, they dance to the hook lyrics of a simple chorus.” This was posted in Miami craigslist by a club owner about the bands he encounters, and also the realities of … Continue reading →

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Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra ~ 2012

Posted on December 16, 2012 by Gandalfe

My all-time favorite big band, that I’ve played in, is the Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra. Here is a slow number to dance to with your sweetie. Made up of hobbyist musicians, backed up by some ringers, this band is just … Continue reading →

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Baritone and Alto Sax 2012

Posted on December 16, 2012 by Gandalfe

“If music be the food of love, play on.” ~ William Shakespeare A friend of mine took this picture of my pit set up for the “In the Mood” show. With just the two saxes, changing instruments was not a … Continue reading →

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“In the Mood” 2012

Posted on December 8, 2012 by Gandalfe

“It’s been a big week for our side. Over on the beaches of Normandy our boys have fired the opening guns of the long awaited drive to liberate the world.” ~ Glenn Miller during a radio broadcast of “I Sustain … Continue reading →

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Birdland Big Band on Section (Ensemble) Playing

Posted on October 6, 2012 by Gandalfe

The Rico Reed folks recently shared some time with the sax section from the Birdland Big Band. The conversation was so good I wanted to capture some of it here for future reference. Bret Pimentel · Assistant Professor of Woodwinds … Continue reading →

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Outdoor Gigs for Big Bands

Posted on August 23, 2012 by Gandalfe

One of my bands, the Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra, had two outdoor gigs this August. Outdoor gigs are not my favorites, but playing at the Ballard Locks has always been a favorite activity for me. Here is some of the … Continue reading →

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Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra ~ 2012

Posted on July 25, 2012 by Gandalfe

Last night was picture taking time with my all-time favorite band, the Microsoft Jumpin’ Jive Orchestra 2012. This band is directed by Ray Guyll and consists of mostly Microsoft employees and alumni. The lead tenor and I (retired Microsoftie) are … Continue reading →

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