The Kaleidoscope Big Band began in 2003 and is based south of Manchester. We are composed of players of all ages who all share an enthusiasm for making good music, learning together and having fun in the process.
The band play at various venues in the Greater Manchester area. Events include, birthday parties, weddings, dances, celebration suppers, church events, village fetes and pubs. The Wharf in Macclesfield is a regular venue as is the Altrincham Festival which we have been associated with since 2005. Whatever the occasion we can usually oblige.
We play a wide variety of classic big band tunes, such as Strike Up the Band, Ain’t Misbehavin’, Big Swing Face and In the Mood, some funky tunes such as Weather Report’s Birdland and Funky Cha Cha, and Song Book classics such as All of Me and A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square, with a few more unusual surprises, such as Faure’s Pavane.
We can tailor our repertoire to something more classically dance-orientated, more gentle and ballad-based, or more modern and groovy! We can do Christmas tunes too!
Check out our Kaleidoscope Facebook page, where we have more photos and videos!
The Kaleidoscope Big Band are:
Musical Director: Phil Shotton
Rhythm section: Graham Fosh, Alan Stander, Ian Warrington, Rob Turner
Trumpets: Joe Cockx, Jane Robinson, Gary Wood, Alan Sennett
Alto Saxophones: Jane Smith, Charlotte Monument
Tenor Saxophones: Terry Butler, Mary Kirkpatrick
Baritone Saxophone: Andy Tyler
Trombones: Andy Godfrey, Simon Greasby, Simon Lodge, Gordon Harmon
Our musical director is Phil Shotton. Phil is a player, bandleader and conductor, regularly performing alongside many national and international jazz artists. He has appeared at major jazz festivals, venues and music festivals throughout the country and abroad. Phil has vast experience in music education as an instrumental teacher, ensemble director, conductor and leader of various workshops and masterclasses.
Kaleidoscope Big Band 