October 26th 2017 at 7:30pm

Arrowsmith Big Band

Members $10 - non members $12

It's time to turn the volume up a few notches as we return to big band music, after seven season-opening weeks with smaller bands. The fabled 16-member Arrowsmith Big Band is delighted to be returning to play for us.

The band, arguably the finest on Vancouver Island, is based in Oceanside, and has among its members some of the best jazz players on the Central Island. Soloists include Oceanside players Claudio Fantinato (alto and soprano sax) and Dave Stewart (trumpet), as well as Nanaimo's Greg Bush (trumpet) and Dave Klinger (piano).

Originally formed over 40 years ago, the band has enjoyed several incarnations over the years. For the last 14 years the band has focused on big band jazz from established and emerging arrangers. For this visit the band has selected charts in a wide variety of styles, from gentle big band ballads to driving swing. They've created a program ranging from Miles Davis' All Blues, to the Beatles' Blackbird. Songs that will be performed have many notable jazz arrangers such as Phil Dwyer, Mark Taylor and Dave Barduhn

The band always looks forward to performances in Courtenay, almost as much as we anticipate them.

Look forward to a great evening of big band jazz, in a convivial atmosphere. If you've never experienced Thursday Night Jazz, don't be shy - come on down and receive a warm welcome from music fans of like mind. If you have teenagers who would like to experience live jazz music, please bring them with you; the Avalanche changed its licence to allow a younger audience to also appreciate the music.

Please browse our website to see the full calendar of performers booked between now and the end of May 2018. Better still, make Thursday Night Jazz a regular part of your weekly schedule. You will be glad you did!

GSJS showcases jazz live in the Comox Valley, giving music lovers an opportunity to enjoys local, regional and internationally-known jazz musicians.