On the heels of performing at Penticton’s popular Fest of Ale, the Thursday Night Jazz Band (TNJB) performs at the Elks Lodge, 343 Ellis St., in Penticton on Saturday, May 3rd.

The band plays a variety of tunes ranging from the 40’s, when big bands were very popular, through to the music of the big horn bands of the 1970’s. Some of TNJB’s favourite jazzy-rock music to play includes that of Steely Dan, Chicago, and Tower of Power, some funk-rock (like Stevie Wonder), some Motown … and beyond! So the repertoire is diverse. The band’s music is show-style, energetic, well-arranged, fun, and very danceable. It’s Jazz That Really Rocks!

TNJB is a standard 17-piece big band with 5 saxophones, 4 trombones, 4 trumpets, a rhythm section (drums, piano, guitar, keyboards) and occasional singers. Most of the musicians are either from a professional background in music or are excellent amateurs. The core group of original band members – music teachers and some close friends – started the band just over 30 years ago.

For many years, the band members gathered together just to practice. But many bandmates wanted to start playing for the public again. The band today is philanthropic, typically playing for fundraising events. Individual band members do not take pay for performing.

Admission is only $15 at the door, and the music starts at 7pm. Grab your seat early! The word is that a group of swing dancers will attend and are ready to share their techniques with you so you can swing along, too. So be sure not to miss this great evening of fun! There will be one swing set, and one rock set.

If you would like dinner beforehand, it will be served at 6pm for a separate fee. For info, please contact the Elks at 250-492-2949.