It’s the NMA Big Band’s 51st year, and they’re promising something special to celebrate. Photo submitted

It’s the NMA Big Band’s 51st year, and they’re promising something special to celebrate. Photo submitted

Nanaimo big band returns to The Avalanche

Oh what a night this is going to be - the Nanaimo Musicians Association (NMA) Big Band with stunning vocalist Sydney Needham is returning to The Avalanche at 7:30 p.m., March 15.

Oh what a night this is going to be – the Nanaimo Musicians Association (NMA) Big Band with stunning vocalist Sydney Needham is returning to The Avalanche at 7:30 p.m., March 15.

This exciting band always rocks the house with its amazing repertoire and talent, together with Needham’s powerful performances. An 18-piece band on The Avalanche’s extended stage is an event not to be missed.

It’s the NMA Big Band’s 51st year, and they’re promising something special to celebrate.

The band’s wide-ranging repertoire includes swing, Latin, New Orleans, fusion, and funk rhythms. Since 1967, the NMA Big Band has promoted the performance of big band music through jazz concerts and fund-raising dances in the mid-Island area.

During its half-century, the band has given emerging talents their first step up to the professional scene and has awarded tens of thousands of dollars in music scholarships.

A few of the band’s celebrated alumni are Diana Krall, Phil Dwyer, and Ingrid and Christine Jensen. More recently, saxophonist Connor Stewart has left the band to pursue a career in New Orleans and tours around the world.

Admission is $10 for members, $12 for non-members. Please visit georgiastraightjazz.com for more information.

Comox Valley Record