The Comox Valley’s 20-person big band invades the Fanny Bay Hall on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 7 p.m. for the final performance of the “Live at Fanny Bay Hall” music series.
The Georgia Strait Big Band is continuing a musical legacy in the Valley that dates back more than 70 years, when big band Saturday night dances were held at the Native Sons Hall and the Fanny Bay Hall … way back when!
The GSBB will be performing tunes made famous by The Count, Gillespie and Ellington and all expertly led by conductor Greg Bush, Professor of Jazz Studies at Vancouver Island University.
Included in the band’s repertoire are “Fanny Bay Hall Premieres” of original Big Band arrangements and compositions, written by Greg Bush, especially for the GSBB, indicative of his special rapport with the band.
For the past nine years, Bush has travelled weekly from his home in Nanaimo to support big band music in the Valley with his expert direction of the Georgia Strait Big Band. A professor of jazz studies at Vancouver Island University, Bush’s leadership, musical expertise, professionalism and mentorship has fine-tuned the musicianship of every member of the Georgia Strait Band.
Saturday’s performance will also showcase the elegant vocals of Jackie Zbirun, who will take you down memory lane with beautiful renditions of classic favourites from the big band era.
Joining Jackie as special guest vocalist is Fanny Bay’s own Nina Leblanc, who will also be performing with the Big Band.
Don’t forget your dancing shoes for the designated dance area to kick up your heels. Bring your dancing energy and enthusiasm!
All of the personnel who participated in the “Live at Fanny Bay Hall” music series are very grateful to the board of the Fanny Bay Hall, who embraced this live music concept from the very beginning of planning. A thank you also goes to great audience members at the various performances for their support of live music.
Advance tickets are $15 and available at Laughing Oyster Books in Courtenay, Red Carpet Boutique in Comox, Weinbergs Good Food in Buckley Bay, Salish Sea Market in Bowser and Mulberry Books in Qualicum.
Visit us on Facebook at “Live at Fanny Bay Hall” and fannybaycommunity.com
