swing Concerts

Find upcoming concerts of popular swing touring artists.

Swing is a genre of music that emerged in the 1930s and was prominent until the mid-1940s. It is characterized by its rhythmic impetus and is often associated with jazz music. Swing became popular as both a style of music and a cultural movement during the swing era. Swing music traces its origins to the dance music ensembles of the 1920s. These groups started adopting fresh written arrangements and incorporating rhythmic innovations inspired by jazz luminaries like Louis Armstrong, Coleman Hawkins, and Benny Carter. However, the popularity of swing declined during the World War II era, giving way to the rise of bebop and jump blues in the post-war period.

MUSICALITY

Swing music is happy and makes you want to dance. Musicians play instruments like trumpets, saxophones, and drums. They take turns playing solos and performing together. Swing bands have a group of instruments, including brass (like trumpets), woodwinds (like saxophones), a rhythm section (piano, guitar, bass, drums), and sometimes a singer.

All these instruments together create a lively and fun sound. The music has catchy tunes and rhythms that are perfect for dancing in a big circle. It's all about having a good time and feeling joyful!

THEMES

Swing music has different themes, but many songs express the happy and hopeful feelings of the swing era. Lyrics often talk about love, romance, dancing, and enjoying the present moment. During tough times like the Great Depression and World War II, swing music offered a way to escape, bringing excitement and celebration.

Swing music also reflected the social changes of the time by breaking racial barriers and promoting unity and inclusivity. It became the music of an era that brought people from different backgrounds together on dance floors, overcoming social differences and creating a feeling of togetherness.

FAMOUS ARTISTS

Some notable swing musicians and bands include:

Benny Goodman: Known as the "King of Swing," Benny Goodman was one of the most popular and influential bandleaders of the swing era. His clarinet playing and leadership skills helped popularize swing music and bring it into the mainstream.

Duke Ellington: A prolific composer, pianist, and bandleader, Duke Ellington's orchestra is renowned for their sophisticated arrangements and innovative approach to swing music. Ellington's compositions are considered some of the finest works in the genre.

Count Basie: Count Basie's band, the Count Basie Orchestra, gained popularity for its driving rhythm section and tight ensemble playing. Basie's piano style and the band's swinging sound made them a favorite among audiences and dancers.

Glenn Miller: Known for his smooth and melodic style, Glenn Miller and his orchestra achieved widespread success and became one of the best-selling recording artists of the swing era. Miller's music embodied the romantic side of swing, with hits like "Moonlight Serenade" and "In the Mood."

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