Tag Archive for: #bigband

Compaq Big Band Holiday Show

Compaq Big Band Holiday Show

Brought to you by: Fugitive Productions

A very special return holiday performance, featuring the 19-piece Compaq Big Band, coming back to the “heart of their start.” Formed at Digital Equipment Corporation’s Mill complex just down the street in Maynard, the DECbigband eventually evolved into today’s Compaq Big Band. In the last two decades, they’ve risen to prominence throughout New England as one of the most accomplished full-size big bands in the area, featuring a cookin’ rhythm section and 14 horns that achieve an ultra-tight sound, with terrific instrumental soloists. While they’re faithful to traditional Swing Era classics, they also dig their chops into challenging swing and jazz arrangements.

Their Sanctuary Christmas debut in 2022 was exciting, inspirational — and just plain fun. Their styles will again run the gamut from traditional swing to very UNtraditional jazz rock, ballad, samba, and jazz waltz tunes — all high-energy arrangements from legendary big band arrangers and bandleaders including Gordon Goodwin, Count Basie, Tom Kubis, Sammy Nestico, Dave Metzger, John Clayton, among others.

Vocalist Marina Evans will be returning out front, channelin’ Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Krall, Linda Eder, Mariah Carey, and more. Marina has been one of the Compaq Big Band’s stellar jazz vocalists for more than a decade. She is an accomplished big band vocalist who has refined her craft over countless hours on the road, the stage, and in the studio. She has written and released four original EPs and a full-length album.

Doors Open: 7pm • Performance: 8pm

Full bar • You’re welcome to bring snacks and/or take-out.  Visit Discover Maynard for a list of Maynard’s many fine restaurants. 

Tickets: $20/advance, $25/door

SOLD OUT! Concert: Compaq Big Band

Brought to you by: Fugitive Productions

On the heels of their sold out Sanctuary debut last December, this exciting 19-piece band returns with a dance night, featuring swing, but including a number of styles. Or just pull up a chair, make yourself comfortable, and settle in with a drink.

The Compaq Big Band has a strong connection to Maynard, having started out as the DECbigband at Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC).  In the last two decades they’ve risen to prominence as one of the most accomplished full-size big bands in the area, featuring a cookin’ rhythm section and 14 horns that achieve an ultra-tight sound, with terrific instrumental soloists

Tonight’s show features accomplished jazz vocalist Cara Campanelli out in front, channelin’ Ella Fitzgerald, Natalie Cole, and other greats. As if that’s not enough, the band will sprinkle in a few instrumental features from the big bands of Count Basie, Suke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Chris Walden, Tom Kubis, Callum Au, and Sammy Nestico.

  • Doors open: 7pm • Performance: 8pm

  • Tickets: $20/advance • $25/door

  • Full bar. You’re welcome to bring snacks and/or take-out.  Click here for a list of Maynard many fine restaurants.

  • Advance purchase is recommended as their last show sold out quickly