Hillsdale College Welcomes The Harry James Orchestra, Directed by Fred Radke
Hillsdale, Mich. — The Harry James Orchestra, directed by Fred Radke, made its third visit to campus for an evening of big band swing music and dancing on Nov. 11.
The performances featured Fred Radke, music director and trumpeter, whose trumpet playing has won many awards. Radke joined The Harry James Orchestra in 1969 as the lead trumpet player and became the band’s music director in 1989.
“I love Hillsdale, and I love the students,” Radke said. “I always look forward to working with the students.”
Hillsdale College senior Molly Buccola, was invited to sing with The Harry James Orchestra during the concert, and Hillsdale College jazz director, Chris McCourry, played in the orchestra’s trumpet section.
The evening began with a social hour reception in the Searle Center lobby that included performances by various student jazz combinations. The performance continued in the Searle Center with The Harry James Orchestra, distinguished by its trumpet solos characteristic of Harry James, and guests danced to a selection of James’s most popular numbers, including “You Made Me Love You,” “Sleepy Lagoon,” “Two O’Clock Jump,” and “Shiny Stockings.”
Harry James was one of the best-known jazz performers during the height of the Big Band Era. He formed the orchestra in 1939 with vocalist Frank Sinatra and produced a number of hits throughout the 1940s. Today, The Harry James Orchestra pays homage to its eponym by perpetuating the great trumpeter’s original sound.
The local and college communities were invited to this free performance that took place in the Searle Center at Hillsdale College. View photos here.