Jim Galloway's Wee Big Band

Jim Galloway's Wee Big Band Live in the Green Sanderson Hall at Hugh's Room, 296 Broadview Avenue

Show at 8pm, Doors at 7pm
$40+ in advance, $47+at the door | $35 Student, Arts Worker, Underemployed Ticket

Now celebrating its 46th year, the 16-piece Jim Galloway’s Wee Big Band proudly makes its first appearance at Hugh’s Room under the leadership and musical direction of early band member Brigham Phillips on piano. Formed in 1979 as a repertory band specializing in the music of the great bands of the swing era, Jim Galloway's Wee Big Band has over 400 arrangements, which is perhaps the most extensive repertoire of any big band in the country. The music of Duke Ellington has always been an integral part of the band's library, with examples of his work ranging from his early compositions in the late 20s to his sacred music in the 70s. Tributes to the bands of Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Woody Herman, Jimmie Lunceford, Jay McShann, Buddy Rich and Artie Shaw are also in the library. From its very first engagement, a broadcast on CJRT-FM from the Ontario Science Centre, the band has made numerous radio broadcasts and television appearances and has played throughout Canada. Today, Jim Galloway’s Wee Big Band continues to perform at local jazz festivals, special occasion events, annual fundraisers and ongoing concerts at downtown jazz venues.

Leader Brigham Phillips, from Halifax, has been a professional musician since 1975 and has been based in Toronto since 1971. During this time, he has had the opportunity to work in most areas of the music business as a performer, band leader, musical director, contractor, arranger, composer and teacher/clinician. Brigham’s strength is his versatility. He plays piano, keyboards, trumpet, valve trombone and euphonium, sings and plays many styles of music – jazz, blues, big band/dance band, solo/cocktail piano, pop, light orchestra, Dixieland, musical theatre (Mirvish and Drayton), as well as composing and arranging in these styles. Friday October 2.