ABOUT THE JAZZ CONNECTION

Creating a Great Swing Band

After Brian Choper had founded several rock and folk bands, many of his clients asked him to assemble a swing band that would bring back the music and the flavor of the 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s, an era where beautiful lyrics were coupled with beautiful music, and where romance and idealism were everywhere in the arts and in Hollywood. Such a band would play lively and danceable swing music in the authentic style of the era, but would also be versatile enough to play other styles of music when requested, such as rock, pop, and funk. The plan was to create a band a cut above your typical society band.

Once conceived, it took Brian on a search to find the right musicians who were completely at home performing swing-based music, yet comfortable in other styles as well. He found finding the right people to be a rather tricky task, as most true jazz musicians do not branch out into either rock or funk. Fortunately, Brian had access to the contacts and support that enabled him to find all the musicians he needed. This select group of people formed the core of his Jazz Connection band, which he could then supplement with the best backup musicians from the area. Because of the band’s flexibility, while the roots of the band are classic swing, the group's repertoire grew way beyond that genre with its all-star lineup of great players. The result is quite a contrast from most elegant, society bands.

Over time, the group developed its own identity and sound, sometimes playing straight Swing, other times mixing it a little with funk and a rock beat. They quickly figured out how to make each song unique and interesting with their own flavor. As performance inquiries came in, they expanded their music to what is today’s wide ranging repertoire list. What they play and how they dress are completely up to you.

The band is known for their unusual flexibility in their music. Their amazing ability to adapt to the musical preferences of the client while knowing exactly what to play to always keep the party in high gear has become their trademark. Their popularity has allowed them to play for parties while receiving invites to play for major galas, celebrity events and heads of state.

For the event that requires flexibility, the band is available from 3 - 6 pieces.