BBC Big Band: George Gershwin & Cole Porter - The Great American Songbook

BBC Big Band: George Gershwin & Cole Porter - The Great American Songbook

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About the show

The internationally acclaimed BBC Big Band are joined by renowned conductor Barry Forgie, and special guest vocalists Matt Ford and Emer McParland, for a unique celebration of two of the most influential figures in American musical history, George Gershwin and Cole Porter.


Through a wonderfully diverse repertoire, the concert showcases and celebrates the musical geniuses of these two giants of music – whose influence not only continues to define a golden era of music and forms an integral part of the ‘Great American Songbook’, but also crosses musical boundaries between Jazz, Broadway, Film, Classical, and beyond!


Expect a sparkling selection of music exploring the full spectrum of their incredible body of work, all performed in the BBC Big Band’s inimitable, swinging style. Expect the likes of ‘Fascinating Rhythm’, ‘Embraceable You’ and ‘Porgy & Bess – through to ‘Let’s Do it’, ‘I’ve Got You Under My Skin’ and ‘Anything Goes’ … and much, much more! The programme will culminate with a performance of Gershwin’s seminal work, ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ – specially arranged for Big Band.


Don’t miss an evening of truly world-class music, celebrating two of the most influential composers of the 20th century, and their incredible contribution musical history.

Featuring

BBC Big Band appearing at this event

BBC Big Band

Britain's premier big band has been regularly voted the 'Best Big Band' at the British Jazz Awards. An awesome 17-piece jazz powerhouse. 'For me, this is the band' (Mel Torme) 'A wonderful band!' (Tony Bennett) 'Joyous...!' (George Benson) 'Wonderful!' (Michel Legrand) 'They brilliantly continue the tradition of Big Band music. As such they are important, as well as marvellous!' (Sir Michael Parkinson) 'I told my wife that for my next birthday I want this band as a gift!' (Lalo Schifrin) 'Not only are they terrific musicians, they also have a marvellous sense of humour' (Ken Bruce - BBC Radio 2).

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on Sunday 14 June 2026