Harry James Orchestra Performs at Hillsdale College
HILLSDALE, Mich. — The Harry James Orchestra returned to Hillsdale College for its fourth big band swing and jazz concert at the college on Nov. 5. The orchestra performance was directed by Fred Radke, an award-winning trumpeter who has toured with the Harry James Orchestra since 1969, becoming its director in 1989.
“We are so grateful to Fred Radke and the Harry James Orchestra for performing for our students, faculty, and community members,” said James Holleman, professor of music, choir, and orchestra. “The orchestra carries on the sound of the Big Band Era and the legacy of Harry James in an authentic and meaningful way. It’s incredible that Hillsdale College can host such a talented group of musicians year after year.”
Harry James was one of the best-known musicians during the height of the Big Band Era. He formed the orchestra in 1939, hiring vocalist Frank Sinatra soon after. Today, the Harry James Orchestra pays homage to its eponym by continuing the great trumpeter’s original sound and songs.
The event began with a reception in Hillsdale College’s Searle Center Lobby and featured performances by junior Carter McNish, junior Sophia Jackson, sophomore Dominic Taranto, sophomore Elijah Redding, and sophomore Paul Sri.
The orchestra performed in the Searle Center and presented some of James’s most beloved pieces, including “Tuxedo Junction,” “James Session,” and “Orange Colored Sky,” as well as newer tunes added by Fred Radke, including Willie Nelson’s “Night Life.”
In addition to the performance in the Searle Center, the orchestra also played in the second annual Battle of the Bands on Nov. 4. The Harry James Orchestra competed against the Hillsdale College Big Band.
“A special thank you to Fred Radke, and the members of the Harry James Orchestra, for their good will and enthusiasm in playing the Battle of the Bands with our Student Big Band. It was a highlight of our students’ year,” said Holleman.
To view photos of the event, click here.