BRATTLEBORO, VT – Get ready for a night of unforgettable music and swing dancing as the Vermont Jazz Center Big Band celebrates 20 years of musical excellence. This annual gala, featuring special guest vocalist Carmen Bradford, will take place on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 7:30 PM at the Vermont Jazz Center, 72 Cotton Mill Hill, #222, Brattleboro, VT.
An Evening Honoring Count Basie
The 18-piece Vermont Jazz Center Big Band will perform a lively repertoire inspired by the legacy of Count Basie, transporting audiences to the golden era of swing. The evening promises an exhilarating lineup of danceable classics led by Grammy Award-winning vocalist Carmen Bradford, a renowned artist who has toured extensively with the Count Basie Orchestra and other jazz legends.
Carmen Bradford’s deep connection to the music of Count Basie makes her an exceptional addition to this year’s performance. She spent nine years as the featured vocalist for the Basie Orchestra and continues to carry forward its rich legacy. Bradford’s contributions to albums such as Basie Swings the Blues earned her a Grammy Award, and she has been nominated five times for her exceptional artistry.
“Carmen Bradford is an unparalleled talent,” says Eugene Uman, Artistic Director of the Vermont Jazz Center. “Her voice carries the depth and passion of the Basie era, and we’re thrilled to welcome her to Brattleboro for this celebration of swing.”
Supporting the Next Generation of Jazz Musicians
This gala concert isn’t just about enjoying exceptional music—it’s the primary fundraiser for the Vermont Jazz Center’s Scholarship Fund, which awards over $20,000 annually to aspiring jazz musicians. Proceeds from the evening will support scholarships for ensembles, private lessons, and the renowned Summer Jazz Workshop, ensuring that young musicians have access to opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
By attending, you’re not just celebrating 20 years of big band excellence; you’re investing in the future of jazz.
About the Vermont Jazz Center Big Band
Founded in 2004, the VJC Big Band is composed of professional musicians from across the region who come together to celebrate the rich traditions of jazz while raising funds for music education. Led by musical director Rob Freeberg, the ensemble’s commitment to historically significant repertoire and exceptional performance has made it a cornerstone of Brattleboro’s cultural scene.
The band includes talented members like trumpeters Don Anderson, Rick Anderson, and Haneef Nelson; woodwind players Michael Zsoldos, Sherm Fox, and Bruce Diehl; trombonists John Wheeler, Amaranth Cole, and Tim Atherton; and rhythm section members Eugene Uman (piano), Wes Brown (bass), and Steve Rice (drums).
More Than a Concert
This year’s gala will be a hybrid event, offering both in-person tickets and a live stream option. For those attending at the Jazz Center, the space will transform into a vibrant dance hall, complete with a cash bar offering beer, wine, and cocktails.
Live streamers can enjoy the music from the comfort of their homes while hosting their own dance parties. Donations to the Scholarship Fund are encouraged for those tuning in virtually.
Carmen Bradford’s Musical Legacy
Beyond her time with the Basie Orchestra, Carmen Bradford’s career highlights include collaborations with Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and Nancy Wilson, among countless others. Her voice graces Grammy-winning albums like The Benny Carter Songbook Project and Darren English’s Imagination Nation, a tribute to Nelson Mandela. Whether performing with world-class orchestras or intimate ensembles, Bradford’s artistry leaves a lasting impression.
“Carmen Bradford is not just a vocalist; she’s a storyteller,” says Rob Freeberg, musical director of the VJC Big Band. “Her ability to convey emotion through her voice is unparalleled.”
Event Details
- Date: Friday, December 6, 2024
- Time: 7:30 PM
- Location: Vermont Jazz Center, 72 Cotton Mill Hill, #222, Brattleboro, VT
- Tickets: $40–$100 (sliding scale)
- Purchase Tickets: vtjazz.org
- Live Stream: Available via VJC’s website or Facebook Live
For more information, email sarah@vtjazz.org or call 802-254-9088 x1.
A Legacy of Excellence
For 20 years, the Vermont Jazz Center Big Band has brought joy to audiences while nurturing the next generation of jazz musicians. From its beginnings as a project led by baritone saxophonist Sherm Fox and former VJC board president Howard Brofsky (Dr. Bebop), the ensemble has grown into one of Brattleboro’s most cherished cultural institutions.
The Vermont Jazz Center extends its gratitude to sponsors Dianne and Steve Lieberman, as well as the Vermont Arts Council, New England Foundation for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts for their generous support.
Don’t miss this magical evening of swing, community, and celebration. Reserve your tickets today, and prepare to dance the night away!
