When Swing Was King "Swings" Into March

Well, the March schedule of “When Swing Was King” gets underway as we will present the program at Esprit Whispering Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care. It will be the first of 8 shows that are on the current rota and, though that is way down from the pre-Covid days when we did 12 shows a month, we are delighted to be able to have these opportunities.

For those of you who don’t know about this outreach, let me give you a quick review. “When Swing Was King: The Sights and Sounds of the Big Band Era” is a sentimental journey back to the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s, the heady days of youth for most of the residents of today’s retirement centers and nursing homes.  It is a wholesome, fun program that brings comfort, awakens memories, and lifts the spirits.  I suppose, however, that “When Swing Was King” is actually a combination of four things: 1) Some of the very best music produced during the swing era; 2) Power Point visuals recalling American life and culture in those decades; 3) Entertaining commentary to go along with the original hits and provocative photographs; and 4) A splendid opportunity for reflection, conversation, and the development of new friendships.

In addition to the nearly 200 photographs, the current show will feature these outstanding hit songs:

1) “Pennsylvania 6-5000” (Glenn Miller Orchestra)

2) “Flying Home” (Lionel Hampton Orchestra)

(Photo Theme: “Things That Fly”)

3) “It’s Been a Long, Long Time” (Harry James Orchestra with vocalist Kitty Kallen)

(Photo Theme: WW II Home Front)

4) “Blue Room” (Glen Gray & the casa Loma Orchestra)

5) “Deep Purple” (Larry Clinton Orchestra with vocalist Bea Wain)

6) “Satin Doll” (Duke Ellington Orchestra)

(Photo Theme: Hollywood Leading Ladies)

7) “Stardust” (Artie Shaw Orchestra)

8) “Till Then” (The Mills Brothers)

(Photo Theme: WW II Years)

9)”Avalon” (Benny Goodman Quartet)

10) “Cha Cha Cha d’Amour” (Dean Martin with Nelson Riddle Orchestra)

(Photo Theme: Dean Martin’s Career)

11) “Opus One” (Tommy Dorsey Orchestra)

12) “Danny Boy” (Dennis Day”

(Photo Theme: The Emerald Isle)

We always appreciate prayers that everything goes right, that the residents come in good health and spirits, that the staff is helpful, and that the Lord blesses us with opportunities to have substantial visits with our guests. And, of course, if you’d like to drop in for one of the shows, by all means do so. You’ll find the schedule on the Vital Signs Ministries website.