From old-school swing to spontaneous improvisation, the Jazz House Big Band brings toe-tapping rhythms to southeastern Idaho.
Karol Taylor, the band’s manager, has been involved since nearly its beginning 30 years ago.
“I've played since I was in sixth grade. Doug Wareing was starting the band. I found out about it through a friend of mine and I just started playing,” Taylor said.
Today, the band consists of about 20 members ranging in age from 18 to 80. The 18-piece ensemble includes flugelhorns, vocal soloists and even a soprano saxophone.
“We just really get into what we're doing and move with the music and I think the energy that we give off is very inviting,” she said.
The group performs at a variety of events, including charity fundraisers, corporate functions and weddings across eastern Idaho.
“Not only keep jazz alive but bring people together with music and for different causes,” Taylor said.
The band plays a monthly swing dance at the American Legion building in Idaho Falls. Dances are held on the first Saturday of each month, starting at 8 p.m. Admission is $7. Dance lessons are available beforehand at 7:30 p.m. for $2 per person. The next swing dance is scheduled for Sept. 6.
Other upcoming events for the band include a fundraiser for the Court Appointed Special Advocate Association on Sept. 27, and a fundraiser with an auxiliary of Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center on Oct. 23.
For updates and more information, visit the Jazz House Big Band Facebook page.
According to Taylor, the band is always looking for new talent to include in their ensemble.
“If you're a good fit for us and we're a good fit for you, we welcome you with open arms,” Taylor said. “If you play an instrument, you can reach out to the Jazz House Big Band.”
To contact the band, visit their Facebook page or reach out to Taylor directly at (208) 589-7457.
“We would welcome encouraging others to come and play or come and dance, come to our dances and enjoy yourself, just enjoy music, enjoy jazz in general,” Taylor said.
For more information on the Jazz House Big Band, listen to the full interview on BYU-Idaho Radio’s podcast on Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.