The much-publicised Jubilee Big Band Show with Opus 17 in Isleham on Saturday proved a great success for St Andrew’s church funds, with over 120 tickets sold after limiting the number due to the need for dancing space.
It was a superb programme, some of it unplanned, and leading to the rafters being lifted to the skies! With emphasis on singing and dancing, a lot of favourite Glenn Miller hits were enjoyed, together with an assortment of numbers sung by the two vocalists.
During the second half, choir member Ruth Ogden performed Ella Fitzgerald’s version of Miss Otis Regrets, as this was listed by the Daily Mail as one of the Queen’s favourite songs. While waiting in the wings to go on stage she agreed with her pianist Eric, following a brief conversation earlier about Sweet Caroline becoming an unofficial anthem for the Jubilee, that they try it as a piano duet. When she had moved from microphone to piano the rhythm guitarist heard them talking and said “What key?” Then he started the song, followed by the bass guitar, drummer, Ruth and Eric. Gradually more of the band joined in, drawing maximum noise and vigorous flag-waving from the audience – an unplanned jam-session!
Finishing the evening with Land of Hope and Glory (more flag-waving) and the national anthem, the band by vociferous requests played another two Miller numbers before finally packing up and going home.
A fantastic Jubilee event that will be well remembered.
Press release from Ely Rotary Club
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