|
Annapolis Junction Big Band |
|
AJ is Multifarious BARROOM OR BALLROOM ROWDY OR WELL BEHAVED RUGBY SHIRT OR TUXEDO IT ALL DEPENDS ON THE GIG AJ IN THE BARROOM At the King of France Tavern, we are a bunch of easy going people who cheer for each other, admit our mistakes, insult the leader and play with manic energy. We are a sandlot team that doesn't want to play in pinstripes. We play for the fun of it. AJ IN THE BALLROOM In the ballroom or at a wedding reception we are well-behaved professionals; happy to stay in the background or stir up the crowd; it's all up to the boss, the person who hires us. AT ALL TIMES *** We feature a book of songs focused on the famous old numbers that have proven their popular appeal in this country. These best selling classics were created in the explosion of modern swing in the heydays of Glenn Miller, County Basie, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington and the like. You will recognize nearly every tune. Better yet, if you are new to this music, you will have your own first experience of these all-star numbers. They are not dated despite their age. They are cool, not corny; powerful, not passe'; beautiful, not boring. Area musicians, who substitute in AJ, all comment that AJ has the "most interesting book." Happy players make good music! *** Our vocalist, Mr. Russ Moss, now known as Mr. Excitement, is a soulful mixture of Louis Armstrong and Bobby Darin. He will either feed your fire with driving tempos or melt you with emotional ballads. In the barroom or in the ballroom he is a unique talent and an audience favorite. *** Our musical competence is more than adequate to the task. We recently completed 3 years at the King of France Tavern and are now appearing monthly at Corky's Hard Bean Cafe in Severna Park. Joining us frequently as jazz tenor saxophone is the former director of all musical activities at the Naval Academy, Ray Ascione. Our lead trombone, Tony Settineri, has taught music for many years on Kent Island. Another Trombonist, Randy Neilson, is the leader of the very successful regional band, Bobby and the Believers. Of course, the rest of us ain't bad, but the fact that these professionals have been with us for years has to tell you something. CUSTOMER ALERT: YOU DON'T HAVE TO BELIEVE A WORD OF THIS! Come hear us in person and decide for yourself. Contact us for rehearsal dates if our public schedule does not meet your needs. |