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Birmingham Rep in Centenary Square, Birmingham

BBC Big Band

George Gershwin & Cole Porter - The Great American Songbook

Sheer brilliance … the BBC Big Band brought the house down”
The Guardian

The internationally acclaimed BBC Big Band are joined by renowned conductor Barry Forgie, and special guest vocalists Matt Ford and Emer McParland, for a unique celebration of two of the most influential figures in American musical history, George Gershwin and Cole Porter.

Through a wonderfully diverse repertoire, the concert showcases and celebrates the musical geniuses of these two giants of music – whose influence not only continues to define a golden era of music and forms an integral part of the ‘Great American Songbook’, but also crosses musical boundaries between Jazz, Broadway, Film, Classical, and beyond!

Expect a sparkling selection of music exploring the full spectrum of their incredible body of work, all performed in the BBC Big Band’s inimitable, swinging style.  Expect the likes of ‘Fascinating Rhythm’, ‘Embraceable You’ and ‘Porgy & Bess – through to ‘Let’s Do it’, ‘I’ve Got You Under My Skin’ and ‘Anything Goes’ … and much, much more!  The programme will culminate with a performance of Gershwin’s seminal work, ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ – specially arranged for Big Band.

Don’t miss an evening of truly world-class music, celebrating two of the most influential composers of the 20th century, and their incredible contribution musical history.

World class …  a brilliant musical force”
The Telegraph

One of the great European Jazz Orchestras.  It would be difficult to imagine any band anywhere doing a better job”
The Observer

Priority Booking – Patrons, Gold and Silver Friends & Access Register
Tue 13 Jan, 12 noon

Priority Booking – Bronze Friends & 16 – 25 Members
Thu 15 Jan 12 noon

General On-Sale
Fri 16 Jan, 12 noon

Venue

The House

Presented by

BBC Big Band

Conducted by

Barry Forgie

Guest vocalists

Matt Ford and Emer McParland

Rep Friends

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Running Time

Approximately 2 hours including an interval

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