Listmates:
In times past, international horse shows and major races have proved to be great venues for Dixieland. Next weekend the Barbone Street Jazz Band is continuing this tradition at The Laurels at Landhope, a 3 day compoetition for horses and carriages. Besides OKOM, we are also presenting a swing dancer exhibition and the sensational 9 year old jazz violinist Jonathan Russell.
Following is a quote from a long article about the event from "County Lines", Chester County's Monthly magazine that features "unique places, interesting events, fine dining and the special lifestyle of Southeastern Pennsylvania and Northern Delaware".
"Think of it as a rolling party with breathtaking competition on the hoof and great shopping. Mix with a savory smorgasbnord of food and drink, toss in a few knights in shining armor, a batch of swing dancers, spice it up with one terrific jazz band and you have the perfect recipe for the Laurels at Landhope International Combined Driving Event, served up throughout the weekend of September 10-12 in West Grove PA."
Etc.,etc., for 3 full pages with pictures. It then goes on to say:
"Making a return engagement, the renowned Barbone Street Dixieland Band will be performing throughout the weekend, and a pageantry-filled Rennaissance Fair will feature impressively armored knights of (no so) old, displaying their own brand of heraldry and swordsmanship. Also, new this year is a toe tapping group of "swing
dancers" who will be on hand to strut their stuff."
Similar write-ups are appearing in local papers and on the radio.
This is the type of "general audience" gig at which all of us should be performing. We've been doing it successfully since this event went "international" in 1990 and I was asked (as a former jazz musician starting up again) if I could put a band together for entertainment. It was our first gig as "Barbone Street", launched our band career, and spawned a whole bunch of others since then. I now supply all the music for this event which includes two trio gigs, two quartet gigs and two 7 piece Dixieland gigs during the 3 days. Sixteen hours of tuneful jazz. (I play them all, lucky me)
Audience demographics? We expect some 10,000 to 15,000 spectators in total. From 5 to 90 years old. Including the rich and anonymous and some of the most beautiful ladies (and handsome men) you will ever see. In addition to 110 competitors who will bring about 550 support personnel.
There are similar events in California, Michigan, Washington State, Oregon, Texas, in fact, just about everywhere in the USA and Europe. Perhaps some forward thinking Dixieland Bands will investigate the possibilities in your areas? Great NEW venue, expands the audience for Dixieland, and you'll make more than a few bucks playing your kind of jazz.
Google search for "Laurels at Landhope", "Jonathan Russell", or "Barbone Street Jazz Band" for more information. Or write me off list. Dixieland and Horses, great synergy and great tradition.
Cheers,
Steve (playing where the people are) Barbone
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