On June 17th, the last day of school, the classic 17 piece Cape Ann Big Band hosted a Spring/Summer Concert at the O’Maley Middle School, A Swing Extravaganza. Listen to some of the songs in the clip below! The band was formed in 2010. The band leader for this super professional, top-notch, sought after band is Carlos Menezes Jr. He just happens to be  the director of the O’Maley music department! Our students have access to astonishing and creative visual arts, performance,and music teachers.  The members of the Cape Ann Big Band, Gloucester Education Foundation, O’Maley Band Parent Organization, Captain Hooks, Supinos, Paula Burns, and others are making this music happen to inspire the kids in our community.”80% of all ticket sales went to help fund new instruments and band room renovations at the Middle School.” Plus Cape Ann Big Band announced during the concert that they are donating those sweet stands to the music department.
Just sayin’- Â You can book the Cape Ann Big Band. http://www.cabbswings.com
Here’s two minutes of video snippets including classics Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy and ‘S Wonderful with vocalist Katy Geraghty. You’ll hear a huge round of applause for Carlos Menezes Jr solo, and stunning vocals from Kate Barry, Scott Parisi and Nathan Seavey. I loved the rendition of “Me and Mrs. Jones”  the 1972 song by Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff, and Cary Gilbert. My phone battery died so I didn’t grab from that song. I also missed the O’Maley Jazz ensemble who played a big set of 10 songs with many solos. They were incredible. Next time you hear that the school band or Cape Ann Big Band are playing a gig make it a point to see them.
The true one and only ‘Cat’ in Gloucester, Cat Barbagallo with the Sayess family, other parents and GEF helping out with fundraising.
Good Morning Gloucester 