SATURDAY night in Barnard Castle is set to swing thanks to a group made up of 15 musicians.
The Big Band Theory began life as a group of friends about eight years ago performing swing and latin versions of pop songs from the 1980s, 90s and more recent years.
Founder Edd Maughan is one of three original members of the band, who come from all parts of the north.
“We rehearse in Leeds but have people from places such as Manchester, York, Darlington and Aycliffe,” he said.
“The band started when I went to Leeds College of Music. I play the guitar as did a lot of others, so getting into ensembles wasn’t easy, so I decided to start my own band.
“Gradually over the years people have dropped out and others have come in – usually friends of other members,” added Mr Maughan, a music teacher at Northallerton School. Among their number are saxophonist Louise Ford, from Barnard Castle, trombonist Sally McGrath, head of music at Teesdale School, and Sally McKenzie, a maths teacher at the school who also plays trombone.
It was through Ms McGrath that Saturday’s show at The Witham came about.
Mr Maughan said she was at the venue for another project and mentioned the band while there.
The result is Saturday’s show, which is also a fundraising event for the venue.
“We are at a stage of branching out, which is why we decided to do The Witham show. It will help us find a new audience.
“We tend to do the Great North Big Band Jazz Festival in Sunderland, which is in March, a summer show – which this year is The Witham – and the occasional private party.”
So expect the likes of Oasis and the Arctic Monkeys, but not as you know them when Big Band Theory: Pop Meets Swing takes to the stage at 8pm on Saturday, June 29. Tickets are £5.
Contact The Witham box office on 01833 631107 or go to www.thewitham.org.uk for details.
For more about the band, search for Big Band Theory 3 on Facebook.
