JIM GALLOWAY'S WEE BIG BAND led by Brigham Phillips

February 14, 15, 16, 17 @ 8:30 pm

Brigham Phillips - Piano

Tara Davidson, Perry White, David French, Merlin Williams & Kevin Goss - Saxes

Alex Kundkcioglu, Steve McDade, Brian O’Kane, & John MacLeod - Trumpets

Rob Sommerville, Karl Silveira & Scott Suttie - Trombones

Martin Loomer - Guitar & Arrangements

Mark Dunn - Bass

Kevin Coady - Drums

Celebrating its 45th year, this 16-piece jazz big band makes its first appearance at The Rex under new leadership and musical direction of trumpeter, pianist, arranger, composer and early band member: Brigham Phillips, on piano.

And features founding member: Martin Loomer, guitar, arrangements, leader and music director 2015-2023; and longtime members: Alex Kundakcioglu, trumpet; John MacLeod, trumpet

Founded in 1979 as a repertory band specializing in music of the great bands of the swing era, Jim Galloway’s Wee Big Band now has over 400 arrangements, 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 20’s to his sacred music in the 70’s, but 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 first engagement, a broadcast on CJRT-FM from the Ontario Science Center, the band has made numerous radio broadcasts and television appearances and has played throughout Canada. The Wee Big Band continues to perform regularly at local jazz festivals, special occasion concerts and fundraisers, as well as seasonal concerts at The Centre for Social Innovation and most recently at the Arts & Letters Club of Toronto