JIM GALLOWAY’S WEE BIG BAND led by Brigham Phillips

october 2, 3, 4, 5 @ 8:30 PM

Brigham Phillips - Piano

Tara Davidson, Perry White, Alex Dean, Merlin Williams & Kevin Goss - Saxes

Alex Kundkcioglu, Paul Callendar, Kyle Pogline, & John MacLeod - Trumpets

Rob Sommerville, William Carn, 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 next appearance at The Rex under the leadership and musical direction of trumpeter, pianist, arranger, composer and early band member, Brigham Phillips. 

Formed in 1979 as a repertory band specialising in the music of the great bands of the swing era, Jim Galloway's Wee Big Band 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 Centre, 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 more recently at the Arts & Letters Club of Toronto.