Big Bands Are Back !

Memorial Hall - Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Building, 590 Main St, Melrose, MA | Get Directions »
$20.00

 
 “The Big Bands Are Back!” Concert/Dance Saturday, November 10, 2012, 6:30-10:30 pm, Memorial Hall, Melrose, MA

Dan Gabel and the Abletones and acclaimed vocalist Amanda Carr for an enchanting night of “singing and swinging” with dance arrangements from the 1930’s and 40’s.  The 2nd annual “Big Bands are Back” show, presented by American Big Band Preservation Society (ABBPS).   
This year, the event will pay tribute to Bob Bachelder. Not only was Mr. Bachelder the assistant superintendent of schools in Melrose, but also a well-known bandleader with the famed “Totem Pole Orchestra”.  In its heyday, the Totem Pole ballroom, located at Norembega Park in Newton, MA, was the Mecca for dancers and big band stars before the ballroom’s tragic destruction in the 1962 fire. Last year, several Melrose High School musicians had the opportunity to sit in with the band. 
At “The Big Bands Are Back,” they'll be memorabilia including pictures from the original Totem Pole Ballroom, other local ballrooms and a chance to meet the Farrington family, the ballroom’s last owners. Long time front singer, Nancy Carr, will also be making a guest appearance in addition to many of the original Totem Pole band members.  Proceeds from the event will fund the ABBPS “In-school Performance and Clinic” programs.  Tickets: $30.00 per person table seat, $20.00 for General Admission.  

$15.00 with student ID.