SPB brings big band to campus

The legendary Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra is bringing their big band sound to The Morrison Center on Sunday night.

Jimmy and Tommy Dorsey were raised in a musical family in Pennsylvania. In the early ’30s, both brothers showed their flair for musical talent by joining the Paul Whiteman Orchestra. Soon after, they formed their own band, The Dorsey Brothers Orchestra. Their band gained much popularity through the mid ’30s until they reportedly had a disagreement over the tempo of a song, which led to a two-decade spat between the brothers.

Jimmy founded his own band in the late ’30s, appropriately named “The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra. Featuring rising star Helen O’Connell, the orchestra hit the top of the charts with such hits as “Amapola” and “Green Eyes.” They were also featured in several top Hollywood movies, which solidified their success in the ’40s.

In 1953, the two brothers once again joined forces to create the greatest big band in American history.

After the premature death of Tommy in 1956, Jimmy was left to carry the torch alone, and he did so until his death in 1957. Jimmy’s swan song was a hit called “So Rare,” which topped the national charts for the better part of a year.

The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra, under the direction of Lee Castle and later with Jim Miller, has for decades pleased audiences worldwide. The current leader, Bill Tole, has helped greatly by keeping Dorsey’s legacy alive in the new millennium.

Tole and guest singer Nancy Knorr, plus a full orchestra are currently on the road playing nostalgic swing time music for the masses.

If you go …

The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra is coming to The Morrison Center Sunday at 7 p.m. for a night of big band music. The event is sponsored by the Student Programs Board and Fox- Channel 12. Tickets can be purchased at all Select-a-Seat locations. For more information call 426-2162.

The Arbiter Staff

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