The Glenn Miller Orchestra 19.01.2025
Invited| Review by V.Brewster
On a chilly winter afternoon, the Glenn Miller Orchestra brought a touch of timeless elegance to Sage One at the Glasshouse, treating an eager audience to a nostalgic journey through the golden era of big band music. The venue was well attended, its acoustics perfectly suited to the lush, harmonious sound of the orchestra’s brass and reeds.
Directed by the charismatic Ray McVay, the orchestra opened with “Moonlight Serenade,” instantly transporting the crowd to a bygone era where swing reigned supreme. McVay, dressed in a pale blue velvet jacket that screamed vintage opulence, set the tone for the first half with his warm and engaging presence. The band complemented this with their striking red suit jackets and black trousers, evoking the glamour of the big band era.
The vocalists—John Jones, Catherine Sykes, and Mark Porter—added another layer of brilliance. Catherine’s stylishly stunning evening dress in the second act perfectly matched her raw vintage vocal quality, reminiscent of an even smoother Doris Day. The second act also saw Ray and vocalists McVay, John Jones, Mark Porter, and Ray Wandsworth transition to black dinner jackets, while the rest of the band remained in their red suit jackets, creating a visually striking contrast.
A standout moment came during the Rat Pack section in the second act, where Mark Porter and John Jones were joined by trombonist Ray Wandsworth. Together, they delivered a lively and playful tribute that had the audience grinning from ear to ear. Their camaraderie and dynamic energy brought a fresh twist to the classic swing numbers.
The musicians didn’t just play their parts on their instruments; they truly engaged with the audience. Many of them showcased incredible versatility as multi-instrumentalists, and their interaction went beyond the stage. At one point, members of the orchestra even walked into the audience, much to the delight of those present. The fun, interactive energy made the performance feel intimate and inclusive.
The rhythm section provided a steady foundation while the brass section shone brightly, particularly during “American Patrol” and “Pennsylvania 65000,” which drew audible murmurs of recognition and joy from the audience. The vocalists delivered heartfelt renditions of classics like “New York, New York” and “Yes My Darling Daughter,” their harmonies transporting the audience to the heyday of big band music.
Sage One’s design amplified the rich, full sound of the orchestra, making every note resonate beautifully. The audience—a mix of dedicated fans and curious newcomers—responded warmly, offering sustained applause after each number. By the time the orchestra closed with a rousing encore of “In The Mood,” it was clear that they had left an indelible mark on everyone present.
The Glenn Miller Orchestra’s performance at the Glasshouse was a celebration of an enduring musical legacy. With its blend of charm, nostalgia, and sheer musical brilliance, this afternoon performance was one to remember.