The Bridport Big Band Concert

On a beautiful sunny spring evening in the Bridport United Church a packed audience enjoyed an evening of musical entertainment. The event was organised by the Rotary Club of Bridport with music by the talented Bridport Big Band led by Musical Director Matt Barge with vocalists Julie Harris and Cameron Shaw. 

Club President, Chrissie welcomed everyone present and explained that proceeds from the event would be divided equally between the Bridport Youth and Community Centre (BYCC) and other local charities who, from time to time, approach our club for assistance. 

This was the Big Bands first public outing of 2024. Their programme included music spanning the years from 'Birth of the Blues' from the 1920s to music from Phil Collins from the 1980s. In between were numbers from Glen Miller, Sinatra and Jimi Hendrix, to mention but a few.  All were played in the big-band style with outstanding vocal support from Julie and Cameron. The final number, New York, New York sung in true Sinatra style, by Cameron.

The Bridport Deputy Mayor, Ian Bark and his wife Anne Bark were the guests of honour. Ian commented, 'What a great evening, great music and a great audience what more could you ask for!' and added, 'If anyone had enjoyed the evening half as much as I have, they would have really enjoyed it!'. He also thanked the Rotary Club of Bridport for organising this fundraising event. 

Club President, Chrissie Bailey said 'It was a great evening. I believe we were sold out for what was a splendid concert. I was approached by a lady from the BYCC who had enjoyed the music and appreciated our support".