It will be chill time on Sunday afternoon with AJ’s Big Band! Since its formation in 1983 the Devon based band has maintained an enviable reputation in its presentation of swing and jazz classics. The 17 piece is named after its founder Alan (AJ) Hempstead who sadly died in 1996. It was in 1985 that the band was chosen to play the on-stage role of the Glenn Miller orchestra in the world premier of Little Brown Jug at the Northcott Theatre in Exeter. The band’s popularity grew rapidly with 1940’s theme nights becoming a feature in the 80’s and 90’s with some memorable VE and VJ day celebrations.

The band is made up of musicians of all ages and has released six recordings over the years. Under the leadership of Ken Parr, Head of Devon Music Services, the band blends stunning ensemble work with exciting jazz solos. The instrumental line-up is complemented by A.J’s featured singer Paula Mitchell with a fusion of beautiful ballads and up-tempo numbers. Ken Parr says “A.J’s Big Band prides itself on creating excitement and enjoyment for audiences through playing good quality music which breathes new life into familiar arrangements and challenges both players and listeners with fresh and exciting solos. We are all so pleased that we are still performing after 30 years of playing across the West Country and beyond”.

Check out the bands website page for more: www.ajsbigband.com