Scottish National Jazz Orchestra (SNJO) directed by Tommy Smith proudly presents THE INCREDIBLE SOUND OF STAN KENTON

Looks good to me - Lance.

THU 25 APRIL      Edinburgh Queen’s Hall               Box office: 0131 668 2019

SAT 27 APRIL      Glasgow Royal Conservatoire       Box office: 0141 332 5057

SUN 28 APRIL      Stirling Albert Halls                     Box office: 01786 473544

Throughout the fabulous ‘40’s and well into the 1950’s the world was swinging, living and loving to the gigantic sounds of the Big Bands. Few were adored more than the large orchestra led by influential composer, arranger and pianist Stan Kenton (1911-1979). Tommy Smith once more leads The Scottish National Jazz Orchestra through the jazz hall of fame in a series of Scottish concert dates that promise to re-ignite the hottest music of the post war era and beyond.

Stan Kenton’s forty-year career as a bandleader began with his Artistry in Rhythm Orchestra in 1941 and it eventually made him a popular figure. Hit tunes such as Eager Beaver, Tampico and Intermission Riff featured his brash, brassy trademark sound and further consolidated his growing fame.

But it was The Peanut Vendor in 1947 that made him a household name on both sides of the Atlantic. This infectious piece of danceable Latin Jazz proved to be his enduring signature tune, and its bright good natured appeal still speaks to the young and the young at heart alike. 

Kenton consistently used sassy Afro-Cuban stylings and European Classicism in his vast repertoire but by the late 1950’s he had begun to explore more modernist, avant-garde themes. He later returned to his familiar swing roots before becoming a leading jazz educator.

Leading Scottish saxophonist, composer and educator Tommy Smith directs the acclaimed SNJO in a celebration of Stan Kenton’s best known and most riotously expressive originals alongside singular readings of standards such as Love For Sale and Fascinating Rhythm. 

Tommy Smith founded the multi award-winning SNJO in 1995 and it is currently the UK’s foremost jazz orchestra. Its members include the brightest and best of jazz talent living and working in Scotland today.