Swing fans take note – the Count Basie Orchestra is coming to Sydney

Heads up to swing fans as the legendary Count Basie Orchestra heads to Sydney in October for a one night only performance at the Sydney Opera House. From Billie Holiday to Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra to Nat King Cole, Sarah Vaughan to Ella Fitzgerald, the Count Basie Orchestra has provided the supremely distinctive sound and swing behind some of the greatest singers of the modern age.

The irresistible, inimitable and timeless style of Count Basie’s music from the ’30s and ’40s lives on into the 21st century as Basie’s legacy is carried on by his musicians. Although ‘The Count” died in 1984, his ensemble has collected a staggering 17 Grammy Awards through the ’80s and the ’90s.

Featuring special guest vocalist Carmen Bradford the 18 piece ensemble includes a core of musicians hired by Basie himself, amongst them, director and drummer Dennis Mackrel, saxophonist John Williams, trombonist Clarence Banks and bassist James Leary, as well as former members of Glenn Miller’s, Benny Goodman’s and Lionel Hampton’s ensembles.

Carmen Bradford has performed with artists including Tony Bennett, James Brown, Wynton Marsalis, Frank Sinatra and George Benson. Count Basie heard Bradford sing in the early eighties and immediately hired her as vocalist for his orchestra, with whom she still sings.

Tixkets: Call 02 9250 7777 / or visit www.sydneyoperahouse.com or Ticketmaster 136 100 / www.ticketmaster.com.au