At The Improv Café, where the spirit of jazz lives and breathes through every note, we’re always proud to showcase music that moves you—body, heart, and soul. This week, we’re celebrating a legendary name in jazz and swing history: The Duke Ellington Orchestra, who recently brought down the house (or rather, lit up the night) at the PNC Bank Arts Center in New Jersey.

And if you weren’t lucky enough to be there in person, don’t worry—we’ve got your Friday night covered with tonight’s ‘Swing With the Big Bands’ radio show, a toe-tapping journey through the golden age of swing, featuring live big band recordings from the greats, past and present.

🎶 The Ellington Legacy: Jazz Royalty Lives On

No name echoes more deeply in the halls of American music than Duke Ellington. A master of melody, rhythm, and mood, Ellington composed over 1,000 works and led his orchestra for more than five decades. His music defined the swing era while transcending it—bringing jazz to concert halls, dance clubs, and radio waves across the world.

From unforgettable standards like “Take the ‘A’ Train” and “Mood Indigo” to sweeping suites and sacred compositions, Ellington’s genius lay in both complexity and soul. Today, his legacy continues to inspire, not as history, but as living music.

🎷 The Duke Ellington Orchestra at the PNC Bank Arts Center

Led by Ellington’s own descendants, The Duke Ellington Orchestra continues to honor and evolve his musical vision. Their recent live performance at the PNC Bank Arts Center was a heartfelt tribute—and a powerful affirmation—that swing music is alive and thriving in the 21st century.

Under the open skies of the New Jersey amphitheater, the band delivered a masterclass in energy, elegance, and swing precision. The setlist featured everything from the deep grooves of “Harlem Air Shaft” to the tender beauty of “Mood Indigo”, and the rich drama of “Madness in Great Ones.”

Each piece was performed with fierce musicianship and flair, featuring bold solos from trumpet and sax players, impeccable rhythm from the drum section, and a tight ensemble groove that had the audience swaying and snapping along. The warm evening air, lush arrangements, and enthusiastic crowd created a one-of-a-kind atmosphere—a moment of pure jazz magic.

🎺 Tonight on The Improv Café: Swing With the Big Bands

If you’re looking to recapture that timeless sound, join us tonight for ‘Swing With the Big Bands’, a weekly Friday night feature on The Improv Café Radio. It’s your ticket to an era when big bands ruled the airwaves and swing filled the dance halls.

🕘 When: Tonight, 9:00 PM – Late
📍 Where: Streaming exclusively at The Improv Café
🎷 What to Expect:

• Live recordings from legends like Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, and Glenn Miller
• Special focus on The Duke Ellington Orchestra’s current touring ensemble
• Timeless classics and rare gems, curated for an unforgettable Friday night vibe

Whether you’re dancing in your living room or relaxing with a glass of wine, this is the soundtrack to your perfect evening.

💫 Why Duke Still Matters

Duke Ellington once said, “There are two kinds of music. Good music, and the other kind.” At The Improv Café, we wholeheartedly agree—and his music? It’s always the good kind.

The modern Ellington Orchestra doesn’t just preserve the music—it reimagines it, bringing passion, innovation, and swing to every live performance. They remind us that jazz isn’t a relic. It’s a living art form that can still surprise, move, and electrify.

💃 Swing Into the Weekend at The Improv Café

Here at The Improv Café, we’re your home for live jazz, swing, and big band magic, day and night. Our passion is bringing timeless music to a new generation of listeners—and reigniting that passion for those who’ve loved it for years.

Stay connected with us for exclusive show schedules, performance recaps, and curated playlists that swing as hard as Ellington’s band on a Saturday night in Harlem.

Visit The Improv Café and never miss a beat.

Tonight, tune in. Turn it up. And let the rhythm take you back to an age when music wasn’t just played—it was felt.
Because at The Improv Café, the band is always live, the swing never stops, and the soul of jazz is always in session.

There’s a magic that happens when brass instruments blare, rhythms pulse, and a dozen musicians move as one. That magic is swing and big band music — a genre that transformed American music, dance culture, and live performance forever. From the ballrooms of the 1930s to the global jazz festivals of today, live swing and big band music has never lost its power to electrify audiences.

In this in-depth journey, we explore the evolution of swing’s live scene, celebrate the icons who shaped its golden era, and spotlight modern-day big band artists keeping the genre alive and swinging.

🎺 The Birth of the Swing Era: Where It All Began

Swing music first took flight in the 1920s and 1930s, rooted in jazz but distinguished by its larger ensembles, bolder arrangements, and infectious, danceable rhythms. With origins in African-American communities — especially in Harlem — swing emerged as a cultural force that would soon sweep across America.

At the heart of swing was the big band, typically composed of 17 to 25 musicians, including trumpets, trombones, saxophones, a rhythm section (piano, bass, drums, guitar), and often a charismatic bandleader or vocalist.

Key Early Swing Venues:

• The Savoy Ballroom (Harlem, NYC) – Home to some of the fiercest swing battles and the birthplace of the Lindy Hop.
• The Cotton Club – Featuring Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway in high-energy performances that set the standard for showmanship.
• The Palomar Ballroom (Los Angeles) – Site of Benny Goodman’s 1935 breakthrough, launching swing into national stardom.

🎼 The Golden Age of Live Big Band (1935–1945)

The Swing Era exploded in the mid-1930s, fueled by live radio broadcasts, dance halls, and cross-country tours. For the first time, bandleaders were the rock stars of their time, and live swing performances became national events.

🔥 Top Live Big Band Artists of All Time (Golden Era):

1. Duke Ellington

A genius of orchestration and mood, Ellington’s performances were as theatrical as they were musical. His band was a masterclass in musical unity, and he led with elegance and innovation for over 50 years.

Top Live Album: Ellington at Newport (1956) – A legendary live set that reignited his career.

2. Count Basie

Basie’s band was the epitome of swing — light, tight, and driven by a powerful rhythm section. His minimalistic piano style let the band breathe, making every live set a groove-filled joyride.

Top Live Album: The Complete Atomic Basie – While not live, it captures the Basie swing at its most explosive.

3. Benny Goodman

Known as the “King of Swing,” Goodman brought swing to mainstream America. His 1938 Carnegie Hall concert is often called the most important live jazz performance in history.

Iconic Moment: The first integrated big band performance at Carnegie Hall.

4. Glenn Miller

With a smoother, more polished sound, Miller’s band brought swing to soldiers during WWII with hits like “In the Mood” and “Moonlight Serenade.” His live broadcasts with the Army Air Force Band kept spirits high overseas.

5. Artie Shaw

A clarinet virtuoso and innovator who pushed big band into more experimental territory. Shaw’s live shows often featured stunning improvisations and lush arrangements.

🕺 Swing Dancing and the Live Experience

The swing scene wasn’t just about the music — it was a cultural phenomenon. Live shows were interactive experiences, with dancers, vocalists, and crowd engagement. From jitterbug contests to Lindy Hop throwdowns, audiences didn’t just watch — they moved.

Key Live Dance Influences:

• Frankie Manning – A swing dancer and choreographer who helped make the Savoy Ballroom a cultural epicenter.
• Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers – A professional swing dance troupe that performed live with top bands around the world.

🎷 The Decline and Revival of Big Band

After WWII, swing gave way to bebop, and the big band era faded. But live big band music never disappeared completely — it evolved.

In the 1950s–70s, large ensembles explored new territories:

• Stan Kenton and his “progressive jazz” orchestra pushed boundaries with avant-garde sounds.
• Buddy Rich, perhaps the greatest drummer in history, led a thrilling, ferocious big band through the ’60s and ’70s.

🎶 Big Band & Swing in the Modern Era

While swing no longer dominates pop culture, the live big band scene is thriving in jazz festivals, concert halls, universities, and underground swing clubs around the world.

🔥 Top Modern Big Band and Swing Artists (Live & Legendary)

1. Wynton Marsalis & The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra

Marsalis has done more than anyone to revitalize the big band tradition in the modern era. His orchestra is a living tribute to swing’s past, performing live with fiery precision and reverence for jazz roots.

Top Live Experience: Live in Cuba and regular shows at Jazz at Lincoln Center.

2. Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band

A virtuosic, high-octane band blending classic swing with funk, Latin, and cinematic flair. Their live performances are masterclasses in technical brilliance and crowd-pleasing showmanship.

3. The Hot Sardines

One of today’s most charismatic live swing acts, The Hot Sardines bring vintage swing to modern ears with infectious energy and Parisian flair.

4. Postmodern Jukebox

While more of a retro-pop ensemble, PMJ revitalizes the swing scene for new generations by reimagining modern pop songs in big band and jazz styles — complete with elaborate live shows.

5. Seth MacFarlane

Yes, the Family Guy creator. MacFarlane tours with full big bands and performs American Songbook classics in lush arrangements, keeping Sinatra-style swing alive for a new audience.

6. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

Leaders of the neo-swing revival of the ’90s, they’re still touring and packing venues with live shows that feel like a roaring ‘40s flashback.

🌍 The Global Swing Scene Today

Today, live big band and swing music has found a home on every continent, with thriving scenes in:

• New York & Chicago – Legendary jazz clubs keep swing in rotation.
• London & Paris – Electro-swing and traditional swing coexist.
• Tokyo & Seoul – Some of the world’s tightest modern big bands and jazz orchestras.
• Melbourne, Australia – A hotbed for jazz education and live swing festivals.

Meanwhile, swing dance festivals like Herräng Dance Camp (Sweden) and Lindy Focus (USA) combine dance and live bands for multi-day swing immersion experiences.

🏆 Why Live Swing Music Still Matters

In an era of digital production and synthesized sounds, live swing and big band music remains one of the most visceral, human musical experiences on Earth. It’s collaborative. It’s loud. It’s emotional. It’s alive.

You don’t just hear big band music — you feel it:

• In the trumpet stabs.
• In the walking bass lines.
• In the synchronized swing of 20 musicians moving as one.
• In the electricity between the stage and a dance floor filled with people who can’t sit still.

🎷 Final Note: The Future Is Still Swinging

Whether you’re rediscovering Duke Ellington’s timeless elegance, grooving to Gordon Goodwin’s high-flying solos, or dancing all night at a Postmodern Jukebox gig, swing music continues to evolve and inspire.

So next time a big band rolls into town or a jazz festival hits your city — go. Feel the brass in your chest. Watch the dancers light up. Let yourself get swept into the rhythm.

Because as long as people love music, the world will keep swinging.

Good evening, swing cats and jitterbugs! You’re tuned into The Improv Café, where the music is always live, the stories are steeped in rhythm, and every note played is soaked in soul. Tonight, we’re rewinding the clock to the smoky, seductive nights of the Prohibition Era, when music was rebellion, dance was liberation, and jazz was more than a sound—it was a lifestyle.

🎷 THE PROHIBITION ERA & THE BIRTH OF SWING CLUBS 🎶

From 1920 to 1933, America went dry—but creativity flowed like never before. With the ratification of the 18th Amendment, alcohol was banned, but that didn’t stop the good times. In fact, it ignited a cultural wildfire. Underground speakeasies and secret swing clubs popped up in every major city—from Chicago’s Green Mill to Harlem’s Cotton Club, where music legends cut their teeth under dim lights and watchful eyes.

It was during these clandestine nights that the Swing Era began to bubble up, slowly overtaking ragtime and Dixieland. As jazz became the sound of the underground, Big Bands took over the stage. Picture a 17-piece orchestra packed shoulder to shoulder, blasting high-octane arrangements while dancers spun and dipped until dawn.

Names like Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Count Basie, and Benny Goodman weren’t just musicians—they were revolutionaries in bow ties and zoot suits. Their live sets—yes, always live—were more than performances. They were declarations. And when Ella Fitzgerald or Billie Holiday stepped up to the mic, the room stood still.

Behind the music was a secret society of rhythm—a fellowship of flappers, bootleggers, and jazz junkies who knew that in a world of silence, swing spoke volumes.

🕺 A SNAPSHOT OF SWING CLUB HOTSPOTS

• The Cotton Club (Harlem, NYC) – Where Duke Ellington’s orchestra made magic.
• Savoy Ballroom – One of the first integrated dance halls, home of the Lindy Hop.
• Paramount Theatre (NYC) – Benny Goodman’s stomping ground for broadcasted live shows.
• The Lincoln Gardens (Chicago) – Hosted King Oliver and a young Louis Armstrong.
• Roseland Ballroom – Where Chick Webb ruled the drum kit, and the battle of the bands was born.

These clubs became the beating heart of the rebellion—a place where music triumphed over legislation, and unity danced in the face of division.

🎺 TONIGHT: “SWING WITH BIG BANDS” on THE IMPROV CAFÉ 🎼

And now, dear listeners, we bring that energy back to life.

Tune in tonight at 7 PM sharp for “Swing with Big Bands”, our special radio show celebrating the timeless legacy of swing with a twist—the Improv Café way. Every track tonight is a live recording, handpicked from some of the greatest stages and sessions ever captured.

Expect high-octane sets from:

• The Glenn Miller Orchestra – Live at the Glen Island Casino
• Count Basie’s explosive Newport Jazz Festival set
• Benny Goodman’s historic Carnegie Hall concert
• Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong’s rare Paris duet
• The Dorsey Brothers’ radio swing sessions
• And even modern tributes from ensembles like the Brian Setzer Orchestra and The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis.

This isn’t just a playlist—it’s a time machine. So pour yourself a glass of something smooth (we won’t ask what), dim the lights, and prepare to swing, sway, and swoon.

The Improv Café Radio—where every song is live and the stories are always in tune.
Join us as we honor the past and swing into the night.

Keep it live. Keep it swingin’. See you at 7.

🎙️🎶

Including Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Artie Shaw, Gene Krupa, Harry James, Woody Herman, Cab Calloway & More – Experience the Timeless Energy, Sophisticated Arrangements, and Unstoppable Rhythms That Defined an Era and Continue to Keep Dance Floors Moving Across Generations – Tune In, Feel the Beat, and Swing Into the Weekend with This Spectacular Celebration of Classic Big Band Jazz!

Swing with the Big Bands – The Ultimate Friday Night Swing Experience on The Improv Café!

Get ready to dance, bop, and swing as The Improv Café brings you the ‘Swing with the Big Bands’ radio show, featuring legendary live performances from the most iconic big band artists in history! Whether you’re a longtime swing aficionado or new to the genre, this show delivers the electrifying energy, impeccable musicianship, and timeless sound of the world’s greatest big bands—all tonight on The Improv Café.

The Top Live Big Bands of All Time

These legendary ensembles defined swing music, dazzling audiences with their energetic brass sections, tight rhythms, and unforgettable melodies:

🎺 Benny Goodman Orchestra – The “King of Swing” led one of the greatest big bands ever, bringing swing music into the mainstream with electrifying live performances.

🎷 Duke Ellington & His Orchestra – A master composer and pianist, Ellington’s band pushed jazz forward with sophisticated arrangements and iconic hits like Take the ‘A’ Train.

🎶 Glenn Miller Orchestra – One of the most commercially successful big bands, Miller’s sound was instantly recognizable with classics like In the Mood and Moonlight Serenade.

🔥 Count Basie Orchestra – With a smooth yet hard-swinging style, Basie’s band defined rhythm and blues-infused swing, featuring legendary soloists like Lester Young.

🎤 Tommy Dorsey & His Orchestra – The “Sentimental Gentleman of Swing” led a polished, sophisticated band known for introducing Frank Sinatra to the world.

🎺 Artie Shaw & His Orchestra – Known for his virtuoso clarinet playing, Shaw’s band blended swing with classical influences, producing hits like Begin the Beguine.

🥁 Gene Krupa Orchestra – One of the first drummers to lead a successful big band, Krupa’s energetic playing and showmanship made him a swing icon.

🎷 Harry James & His Orchestra – With his fiery trumpet sound, Harry James led one of the most exciting big bands, delivering unforgettable performances.

🎼 Woody Herman & His Thundering Herds – Constantly evolving, Herman’s bands delivered high-energy swing, bebop, and modern jazz across multiple decades.

💃 Cab Calloway & His Orchestra – A showman like no other, Calloway’s band blended swing, blues, and scat singing into some of the most exciting live performances in jazz history.

Tune in Tonight for ‘Swing with the Big Bands’ on The Improv Café!

Join us for a Friday night full of energy, rhythm, and timeless swing music as we showcase legendary live performances from these iconic big bands. Whether you’re dancing, tapping your feet, or just soaking in the music, this is a show you won’t want to miss!

📅 Tonight on The Improv Café
🎶 Swing with the Big Bands
📻 Live Big Band Performances from History’s Greatest Artists
⏰ Friday Night – Let’s Swing!

Turn up the volume, hit the dance floor, and swing into the weekend! 🎷💃🎺

Looking for a blast from the past or simply seeking to dive into the rich history of swing music? Look no further than The Improv Cafe’s list of Top Live Swing Albums and Historic Live Swing Shows of All Time in Jazz History. From the early days of the big bands to the golden era of swing, these performances are a treasure trove for jazz aficionados, dancers, and anyone who loves to swing.

If you’re ready for an unforgettable experience, be sure to tune in to our ‘Swing with the Big Bands’ radio show, where we bring you legendary live performances from the most iconic big band artists throughout history. It’s not just a radio show—it’s an invitation to transport yourself back to the heyday of swing and get your feet moving to the timeless rhythms of jazz.

Top Live Swing Albums:

Here are just a few of the albums that we consider among the best live recordings in the swing and big band genres:

1. Count Basie – “The Atomic Basie” (1958)
   This album is a quintessential live performance that showcases Count Basie’s precision and impeccable timing. Recorded at a time when the big band sound was at its peak, the album is a vibrant representation of Basie’s unique style, blending powerful brass and smooth rhythms with iconic tracks like “Shiny Stockings” and “Splanky.”
2. Duke Ellington – “Live at the Newport Jazz Festival” (1956)
   Widely regarded as one of the most important live recordings in jazz history, this album captures the legendary Duke Ellington Orchestra in their prime. The performance at the Newport Jazz Festival is filled with the energy and magic that defined Ellington’s long career, with stunning solos and euphoric exchanges between the band members.
3. Benny Goodman – “Live at Carnegie Hall” (1938)
   This iconic recording features the legendary Benny Goodman Orchestra at their best. Captured at the historic Carnegie Hall, this performance features some of the most celebrated names in swing history, including Lionel Hampton, Harry James, and Gene Krupa. The live performance takes you on a musical journey through the big band era, showcasing hits like “Sing, Sing, Sing” and “Stompin’ at the Savoy.”
4. Glenn Miller – “In the Mood: The Best of Glenn Miller” (1941-1942)
   No swing collection would be complete without the sounds of Glenn Miller. Known for his smooth, cinematic sound, Glenn Miller’s orchestra was the sound of an era. This live album captures the infectious energy of their performances, including timeless classics like “Moonlight Serenade” and “Chattanooga Choo Choo.”
5. Tommy Dorsey – “The Greatest of the Big Bands” (1940s)
   Tommy Dorsey was a master of the trombone and a legendary bandleader. This live album showcases Dorsey’s orchestra performing with elegance and impeccable arrangement. Known for tracks like “I’ll Be Seeing You” and “Marie,” this recording captures the essence of swing with unmatched smoothness and precision.

Historic Live Swing Shows of All Time:

1. Benny Goodman’s Carnegie Hall Concert (1938)
   Perhaps the most famous swing performance ever, Benny Goodman’s Carnegie Hall concert marked the moment when swing truly entered the mainstream. The show was a pivotal moment in jazz history, presenting a seamless combination of class and excitement, and cementing Goodman’s place in history.
2. Duke Ellington’s Newport Jazz Festival Performance (1956)
   This historic performance not only showcased Ellington’s orchestra at its peak but also helped rejuvenate his career. The energetic atmosphere of Newport and Ellington’s thrilling performance, especially his rendition of “Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue,” remains one of the defining moments in jazz history.
3. Count Basie at the 1937 Kansas City Jazz Festival
   Basie’s performance at this historic festival was a turning point in the development of the big band sound. Known for its tight rhythm section and powerful brass section, the band delivered a performance filled with energetic swing that would go on to influence generations of jazz musicians.
4. Glenn Miller at the Hollywood Palladium (1941)
   Glenn Miller’s 1941 performance at the Hollywood Palladium was filled with the magic of the swing era. With his band playing with unrivaled precision, Miller’s performance was a snapshot of the optimism and energy of pre-war America, setting the standard for big band performances for years to come.
5. Artie Shaw’s Carnegie Hall Performance (1939)
   Artie Shaw’s live performance at Carnegie Hall was a defining moment in the swing era. Known for his virtuosic clarinet playing and sophisticated arrangements, Shaw delivered a performance that was both high-energy and refined, marking his place as one of the greatest bandleaders of the era.

Swing with the Big Bands – Every Friday Night:

Every Friday night, our ‘Swing with the Big Bands’ radio show gives you the chance to experience these legendary performances all over again. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the genre or just discovering the magic of swing, our show will transport you to a time when the rhythm was hot, and the bands were big. Tune in and get ready to dance, bop, and swing to the beat of these incredible live performances from the greatest big band artists in jazz history!

Let The Improv Cafe be your guide to the best live swing performances of all time, and immerse yourself in the music that helped shape jazz and popular culture for generations.

Looking for some fun and high-energy vibes this Friday night? Tune into Swing with the Big Bands on The Improv Cafe for a night full of classic tunes and legendary live performances from some of the greatest big band artists in history!

Tonight, we’re diving into the top live swing albums of all time — showcasing the big bands that defined the sound of swing and made dance floors come alive. From Duke Ellington to Count Basie, Benny Goodman, and beyond, this show celebrates the artistry, passion, and pure joy of swing music, bringing you the best performances that have stood the test of time.

So get ready to dance, bop, and swing to the beat of iconic live albums that have shaped the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned swing enthusiast or new to the scene, tonight’s episode promises a lively ride through the golden era of big band music. Don’t miss out on the fun — let the music move you and enjoy a swingin’ Friday night with Swing with the Big Bands!

Tune in, and let’s keep the rhythm going! 🎶💃🕺

Sundays are for relaxation, and there’s no better way to ease into a cozy night than with the soothing sounds of Singing with Swing, the radio show that transports you to a world of live jazz, where legendary vocalists take the spotlight and wrap you in rich, melodic warmth. Airing every Sunday evening on The Improv Cafe, this program is designed to create the perfect ambiance for your night in, featuring some of the most iconic and inspiring vocal jazz artists.

The magic of Singing with Swing lies in its commitment to delivering live performances from vocalists who have left an indelible mark on the world of jazz. Here are just a few of the unforgettable legends you’ll hear on the show:

1. Billie Holiday
No discussion of vocal jazz would be complete without mentioning the incomparable Billie Holiday. With her distinct phrasing and emotionally charged voice, Holiday’s live recordings capture her artistry at its peak. Songs like “God Bless the Child” and “Strange Fruit” are not only jazz standards but powerful expressions of personal emotion and social commentary. On Singing with Swing, you’ll hear the deep connection she had with her audience, where every note told a story.

2. Frank Sinatra
The “Chairman of the Board” needs no introduction. Sinatra’s voice was nothing short of legendary, and his live performances bring out the full essence of his charismatic style. Whether crooning a romantic ballad or swinging through an upbeat tune, Frank Sinatra’s mastery over phrasing and emotion has made him a pillar of jazz vocal greatness. On the show, Sinatra’s timeless classics like “Fly Me to the Moon” and “My Way” will fill your Sunday evening with smooth, cool vibes.

3. Ella Fitzgerald
Known as the “First Lady of Song,” Ella Fitzgerald’s impeccable vocal range and ability to improvise on the spot made her one of jazz’s most celebrated artists. When Ella took the stage, it was pure magic—whether she was performing with orchestras or small combos. Her live renditions of “Summertime” or “Misty” will captivate you with their seamless beauty, making her an unforgettable feature on Singing with Swing.

4. Sarah Vaughan
Known for her rich, lush voice and incredible range, Sarah Vaughan was a force of nature in the jazz world. Her vocal acrobatics and ability to interpret a song were second to none. With songs like “My Man” and “Lullaby of Birdland,” Vaughan’s live performances took on a life of their own, showcasing her sophisticated technique and deep emotional resonance. Tune in for her stunning solos and commanding presence.

5. Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole’s velvet smooth voice made him a beloved figure in both jazz and pop music. His live performances were full of charm, warmth, and sincerity. From “Unforgettable” to “Nature Boy,” his work remains iconic. Cole’s ability to connect with his audience through his intimate, laid-back style is what makes him a perfect fit for a Sunday night listening experience on Singing with Swing.

6. Peggy Lee
With a sultry, smoky voice and impeccable delivery, Peggy Lee’s live performances exude sophistication and grace. Whether performing jazz standards like “Fever” or crooning a beautiful ballad like “Is That All There Is?”, Lee’s ability to tell a story through her music will sweep you away every time. On Singing with Swing, you can relax into the night with her timeless performances.

7. Johnny Mercer
While more commonly known for his lyric writing, Johnny Mercer’s vocal interpretations of his own work are a treasured part of the jazz world. His voice, filled with warmth and intimacy, brings an added layer of magic to his collaborations with other jazz greats. Mercer’s live performances of hits like “Moon River” and “Accentuate the Positive” are filled with heart and sincerity, making him a wonderful inclusion on the show.

With Singing with Swing, every Sunday night becomes an opportunity to unwind, as you’re taken on a journey through the golden age of jazz vocals. Each legendary artist brings their own unique sound and personality to the stage, creating an experience that is as nostalgic as it is refreshing.

So, whether you’re preparing for the week ahead or simply seeking a moment of peace, Singing with Swing on The Improv Cafe provides the perfect soundtrack for a relaxing Sunday evening. Tune in, settle back, and let these legends fill your home with the smoothest, most soulful jazz vocals you’ll ever hear.

The Improv Cafe’ is where every song played are classic & new Live versions of your favorite Jazz, Big band & Swing artist!

Looking for some fun on Friday nights? Tune in to “Swing with the Big Bands”, the radio show that takes you on a lively journey through the golden era of swing and big band music! Whether you’re a seasoned jazz lover or just discovering the magic of this timeless genre, this show is sure to get your feet tapping and your heart swinging.

Every Friday, “Swing with the Big Bands” brings you legendary live performances from some of the most iconic big band and swing artists in history. From the smooth and powerful sounds of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Glenn Miller, to the energetic and unforgettable melodies of Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, and many more, you’ll hear it all. These performances capture the essence of the big band era—each one brimming with exhilarating brass, slick rhythms, and extraordinary improvisation.

So, get ready to dance, bop, and swing as you tune into the music that defined a generation. The rhythm will pull you in, and the energy will keep you moving! Whether you’re hosting a dance party or just unwinding after a busy week, “Swing with the Big Bands” guarantees the best in live big band music every Friday night. Don’t miss out on this weekly celebration of the legends of swing—because with the music playing, the fun never stops!

The 17th Annual Charles Mingus Festival is set to take place from February 14 to 16, 2025, celebrating the legendary jazz musician and composer Charles Mingus. This highly anticipated festival offers a wide range of activities that honor Mingus’ musical genius and impact on the jazz world, spanning performances, educational workshops, and interactive events. Whether you’re an avid jazz fan or a budding musician, the Mingus Fest is a vibrant celebration of artistry and humanity.

Festival Highlights

Feb 14, 2025:

• Mingus Big Band Open Rehearsal (12pm-4pm) at the New School, offering a rare opportunity to see the band prepare for their performance. This session will also be available via livestream, so fans worldwide can tune in.
• Mingus Dynasty kicks off a full day of classes and jam sessions tailored for high school students. It’s an amazing chance for young musicians to learn from professionals and get hands-on experience in jazz.

Feb 15, 2025:

• The Artistry and Humanity of Charles Mingus with Eric Mingus – A unique session led by Eric Mingus, Charles’ son, exploring the personal and artistic journey of his father’s life and work.
• Woodwind Clinic – A specialized clinic designed for woodwind players to hone their skills, with focus on Mingus’ distinctive style and approach to jazz.
• Rhythm Section Clinic – A session for rhythm section musicians (bass, drums, piano, etc.), where participants can delve into the groove and swing that defines Mingus’ music.
• Brass Clinic – A focused clinic for brass players to explore Mingus’ use of brass instrumentation in his groundbreaking compositions.
• Mingus Big Band at Joe’s Pub (8pm) – The Mingus Big Band will perform at this iconic venue, bringing Mingus’ compositions to life in an intimate setting.
• High School Competition at New School Tishman (plus livestream) – An exciting, free event that opens the doors for young jazz musicians to compete and showcase their talents. It is open to the public and can be watched online.

Feb 16, 2025:

• Mingus Big Band at Joe’s Pub (8pm) – The festival wraps up with another incredible performance by the Mingus Big Band at Joe’s Pub, where they’ll deliver a powerful musical experience.

Additional Events:

• Rutgers Mingus Ensemble will perform on Feb 26, 2025, showcasing the talents of the next generation of jazz musicians.
• The Mingus Big Band will head to Yale for a performance on March 29, 2025, followed by an international engagement at Ronnie Scott’s in London from April 14–19, 2025.

Whether you’re attending in person or tuning in virtually, the 17th Annual Charles Mingus Festival promises an unforgettable celebration of Mingus’ profound legacy and the timeless power of jazz.