The Swing Commanders

The Swing Commanders; six specialist musicians; five solo voices and just count the instruments! One of Europe’s top Western Swing sextet; the cats with the cream of 40s swing.

Founder member of the band and only survivor from the original line-up, Peter Riley bursts into life the moment he hits the mike. He plays his unique rhythm guitar in his own individual style, interwoven with a more traditional double bass, but is best remembered for his superb voice and magnetic stage presence. An aficionado of Western Swing, he has now emerged as one of the most charismatic front men on the Country, Swing and Jazz scenes.

Rosy Williams is a classically trained violinist; a member of a variety of orchestras, sung regularly on BBC Radio 4, savour her stunning vocals in not only the trio harmonies but also her solo renditions of some Forties classics with the occasional trumpet solos!

Former member of Country duo, ‘Broadcaster’, top guitarist, ‘Champion’ Simon Brady is not only acknowledged as the best mandolin player on the British Country scene but is now attracting considerable attention on his unique, 10-string Williamson Hawaiian steel, which he built himself. Vocalist, lead guitarist and a superbly creative jazz musician, there are new surprises ahead as the band extends its repertoire

Former classical violin soloist, Gaynor Sutcliffe, uses her wide musical experience and expertise to bring a unique slant to the band’s Latin, Swing and Country styles. When not leading the dancers on the floor, her powerful vocals, piano accordion solos, keyboard backings and double bass extravaganzas have added a dynamic impact to the band’s live performances.

Outstanding session drummer, Dr Mark Warburton, has recorded and played alongside the likes of Gloria Gaynor and Errol Brown. Evident in his brilliant solos, he proves that he is king of the swingers! Watch out for him coming forward with an instrument that most people cannot even spell!

Siena Lloyd, leading role in the musical ‘Blonde Bombshells’, based loosely on the adventures of the 1940s Ivy Benson band, which enjoyed a successful British theatre tour in 2008. As a skilled musician, it is her musical expertise that she now brings to the band; an experienced solo singer, she has also performed regularly on piano, keyboard, double bass, clarinet and tenor saxophone.

Supported by DJ Strollin’ Steve.

Persons aged between 14 to 16 years will only admitted if accompanied by an appropriate supervising adult. Only persons aged over 16 will only be admitted to the bar area, with only over 18s able to purchase alcohol. Photo ID will be required.