Introducing Big Band Jazz Turned Up To 11!

Few names loom larger in Big Band history than Buddy Rich

This October, the Rocky Mountain Jazz Collective honors his explosive legacy with a high-octane tribute featuring not one, but four powerhouse drummers—Roxanne Jeppesen, Matt Devitt, March McGibbony, and Zach Paris. Trading, teaming up, and occasionally unleashing controlled chaos, this is Big Band Jazz turned up to eleven.

Born into a musical family, it’s no wonder Bernard “Buddy” Rich picked up drumming so early. A part of his family’s vaudevillian act at just 2 years old, he could sing and dance but found his true affinity for jazz music just a little while later. Known for his expert technique, power, and speed most of his contemporaries say he was “the greatest drummer ever to have drawn breath.” 

A Billings Symphony favorite, the Rocky Mountain Jazz Collective, takes inspiration from some of the most influential names in jazz and creates amazing programing that’s both entertaining and educational. This evening will be a testament to their aim of increasing appreciation and awareness of jazz music through the performance of themed programs. 

Rocky Mountain Jazz Collective’s Big Band Machine is scheduled for Saturday, October 10, at the Q Staton Performing Arts Center. The concert begins at 7:00PM and doors open at 6:00PM. To purchase tickets, call 406-252-3610 or visit www.billingssymphony.org.