About the Band
History
The Mark Rose Swing Band began in 2000 as a spin-off from the Second Wind Community Band, where Mark played trumpet and French horn. The band started in conjuction with a five-person Dixieland band and soon grew into a Big Band patterned after bands of the '30s, '40s and '50s, led by memorable musicians such as Glen Miller, Arte Shaw and Duke Ellington.
One of the band's first performances was at the Sunshine Festival in June of 2000, with Mark conducting--fresh out of stroke rehab. Mark's indomitable spirit and great sense of humour have had the band learning and improving over the years. Mark retired in March of 2007, passing the baton into the hands of his daughter Toni Rose.
The Band Today
The band has broadened its horizons in recent years, and we have changed our name to the Mark Rose Big Band to better reflect our expanding repertoire. We now play Latin, rock and funk in addition to our traditional swing and jazz. Thanks to our piano player Jim Johnston, who arranges music as a hobby, we also play new and exciting versions of classic and current hits.
The rich voice of our leading vocalist Jan Third recalls the style of the big band era, and she puts her own stamp on contemporary songs.
We currently play every 4-6 weeks for a variety of events and are available for hire throughout the Okanagan.
Mark Rose, 1924 - 2008
Mark passed away in March of 2008. His influence has made each and every one of us a better musician, a legacy for which we are all profoundly grateful.
