(pictured: John Clayton directs the Big Band, photo by Kay Harper)

Big Band returns to Centrum in October when the Wheeler Theater plays host to John Clayton and the October workshop participant Big Band on Saturday, October 8 at 7:30 p.m.  The concert is the culmination of a three-day intensive workshop, where seasoned players from across the Northwest descend on Fort Worden State Park to study under the tutelage of John Clayton, and develop their skill and experience in Big Band performance. The band will perform original compositions by John Clayton, as well as his arrangements of classic big band charts by Basie, Ellington and others, in the intimate setting of the 280-seat Wheeler Theater.

In addition to the Saturday concert, John Clayton will be leading a FREE master class on Friday night, October 7 at 7:30 p.m. in the Wheeler Theater.  He’ll be leading the workshop participant big band in demonstrating big band styles and techniques, and discussing his creative process behind composing and arranging for a big band.  The event is open to the public at no charge.

Tickets to the public performance on October 8 at 7:30 PM in the Wheeler Theater are $10, and are available now through the Centrum website at www.centrum.org, or by phone at 800.746.1982 (a processing fee applies).   Tickets are also available at the venue box office, one hour prior to performance.