Big Band Swing Music Vol. 1 Presentation with John Clark

The Big Band era officially started in the summer of 1935, but the transition from hot jazz and Dixieland
had begun much earlier in the decade. We’ll trace the roots of Big Band music,
including the back story of the King of Swing himself, Benny Goodman. Then you’ll
hear his hits like Goody, Goody, Taking a Chance on Love and the historic Carnegie
Hall performance of Sing, Sing, Sing! You’ll also be treated to recordings of live
performances of Goodman vocalists Martha Tilton and Peggy Lee. The last third of the
program is devoted to the most popular bandleader of this period, Glenn Miller with 22 chart-topping songs from 1939-1943.

You’ll understand the origins of the unmistakable Glenn Miller
sound heard clearly in his theme song, Moonlight Serenade. You’ll see performances of two of his
biggest hits, Chattanooga Choo Choo and In the Mood. There’s even footage of Glenn leading the 50-
piece Army Air Force Band in the summer of 1944, just months before he boarded the flight to France
that took his life. For ten years orchestral jazz became America’s popular music and you’re invited to
wax nostalgic as you learn about two of its biggest stars. Prior to a career as a high school and adult
education teacher, John Clark worked in music publishing in Nashville. He enjoys sharing his passion for
music with senior centers and senior residences.

Open to out-of-towners age 60+ for $5

*Friends of the Acton Council on Aging provides financial assistance for this event.