MANCHESTER, NH – NH Jazz Orchestra’s 2nd annual Swing into Spring Gala is this Saturday, March 21, 2026 7 p.m. at the Dana Center, Saint Anselm College.
The NHJO has been hard at work preparing for an evening of swing-era elegance at the Dana Center at Saint Anselm College. This second annual Swing into Spring Gala benefits the Music Boosters at Bedford High School.
The concert is scheduled to kick off with a short showcase of student musicians followed by a full tribute to the golden age of big band and vocal jazz from one of the most authentic big bands around. The concert will also feature the Vintage Vocal Quartet. Expect that the acoustics of the Dana Center will enhance the vibes for the evening.
BRIDGING HISTORY TO MODERN BIG BAND PERFORMANCE
NHJO band leader Skip Poole brings a unique background that makes the NHJO sound distinctive. He doesn’t just lead the musicians, he has lived it, performing under household names from the original big band era. The band has a focus on music education and very much in keeping with the days of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Glenn Miller, they are music ambassadors who pay their own way, are not a 501c3, and they give back teaching, supporting and encouraging the next generation of musicians.
I’ve attended a number of rehearsals and NHJO concerts over the past couple of years. Poole frequently interjects backstories specific to particular bands and events. He also isn’t just name dropping. He has worked with legendary entertainers like Mel Tormé, Cab Calloway, Rosemary Clooney, Maynard Ferguson and Johnny Mathis. He shares with his musicians amazing stories of working with Rosemary Clooney at the Dana Center and can point out the who, what, where and why things happen.
NH JAZZ ORCHESTRA REHEARSALS ARE LIKE…
Every piece they perform starts with a listening moment. Poole’s son, CJ, plays back on his smartphone, the original recording many of which are easily found on YouTube. Skip then emphasizes the important nuances of sound that made those epic originals powerful.
Poole raises the bar constantly at rehearsals saying repeatedly, “We are striving to not just play the notes; but attempting to allow the listener to hear this music as it might have been like to experience those original big bands perform live!”
Here are some excerpts/quotes heard at rehearsal:
“at 42…trumpets when you hit it right, it’s just like church bells” ~ Skip Clayton
Let’s give you a break…we are going to listen to recording…the red label, black record, Not Harry James on the cover. You tube, Not Spotify. There is this part……”
“keep going, you almost impressed me. if you sing it correctly you will always play it correctly.”
“Solid does not mean louder. Swing is light.”
Most importantly, NHJO plays from charts that have never been published. The handwritten notes and instructions are from a man who has played the music with the bands that originally created the sounds. NJHO’s authenticity is real and the back stories riveting.
Skip Poole is always very clear in his direction. He knows what he needs to hear. The band listens carefully for accuracy to be authentic to the originals that Skip Poole was part of as a young man. Together they bring back to life the sophisticated artistry that was Big Band’s golden age. And from the seats we get to hear and experience this young modern19 piece jazz orchestra.
BEFORE THE DOWNBEAT – Things to know
Buy your tickets directly from the Dana Center. Click the image below to reach their ticket site.
Vintage Vocal Quartet consists of Taylor O’Donnell, David Thorne Scott, Chris Humphrey and Paul Pampinella.
NH Jazz Orchestra – With a mission to inspire audiences and support young musicians, the NHJO blends tradition with innovation, bringing the power of live big band music to concert halls, festivals, and school events across the region. What makes this ensemble especially unique is its dedication to giving back. Through benefit performances, educational workshops, and mentorship, the ensemble actively invests in the next generation of musicians
Net proceeds from this concert will directly benefit the Bedford High School Music Department, supporting student musicians and vital music education programs throughout the year. Your attendance not only ensures a night of world-class live music but also helps nurture the next generation of musical talent right here in New Hampshire.