SHOALS AREA BIG BAND, PRIDE OF DIXIE MARCHING BAND HOST BENEFIT CONCERT
November 3, 2008
FLORENCE, Ala. — The Shoals Area Big Band and the University of North Alabama Pride of Dixie Marching Band are hosting the Big Band Benefit Concert at 2 p.m. Nov. 16 in Norton Auditorium on the UNA campus. Admission is $10 general admission and $5 for UNA students. Veterans, active military and children are admitted free of charge. Tickets are available at the door.
“The Big Band is preparing a program that includes standards and some great new arrangements,” said Lloyd Jones, UNA director of bands. “If you like big band swing, you will love this concert. There are great soloists, great vocalists, great songs – just a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.”Among other tunes, the Big Band will perform “In the Mood,” “Jumpin’ at the Woodside,” “St. Louis Blues” and “Sing, Sing, Sing.” Vocalist Donna Berryhill will perform “Choo Choo Ch’ Boogie” and “I’ve Heard that Song Before,” and Edsel Holden will perform “When the Saints Go Marching In” and “Call Me Irresponsible.” Other featured musicians include Dr. Jimmy Simpson on “Let’s Dance” and Eddie Elsey on “Getting Sentimental Over You.”
“This promises to be an enjoyable afternoon of music for all in attendance,” said Lloyd Jones, director of the Pride of Dixie Marching Band. “The Big Band and Dr. Lyman Mitchell have been supporting the UNA Bands with this concert for more than 25 years. We could not have built the program to its current level without the thousands of dollars raised by this prestigious organization. Dr. Mitchell and the other members have consistently given their time and talent to help the next generation of musicians. Additionally, many UNA students have gone on to perform with the Shoals Big Band.”
UNA’s Pride of Dixie Marching Band has grown to 212 members, which includes students from all across the Southeast as well as five from Japan. Students in the band study in all degree fields at UNA and are eligible for scholarships.
