Rancho Santa Fe Big Band to present music of ‘The Greatest Generation’ Nov. 18

The RSF Big Band Swing Orchestra will perform music from “The Greatest Generation” on Sunday, Nov. 18, from 6-8:30 p.m. at the Village Church in Rancho Santa Fe.

It’s been coined the “Greatest Generation” by journalist Tom Brokaw when describing the kids who grew up in the United States during the Great Depression, and then who fought in World War II. Music of their era began in the mid-1920s with a form of a sweet and melodic jazz, often including violins. Among the artists were Paul Whiteman, Ted Lewis, Rudy Vallee and Fred Waring.

Then in the 1930s a new movement in jazz took form and took off – “swing” with a new crop of musicians like Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington and Artie Shaw. During and soon after World War II, Earl Hines, Dizzy Gillespie and Lionel Hampton introduced Bebop style to jazz. From the 1950s to the 1970s performers such as Gene Krupa, Buddy Rich and Stan Kenton found their direction and added to the already vibrant vibe of 20th century music.

The Greatest Generation heard it all, and to them the RSF Big Band plans to dedicate this Rancho Santa Fe Big Band concert, under the direction of Professor Jack Wheaton on Nov. 18 at the Village Church (6225 Paseo Delicias, RSF).

Cost is $45 per person, available at the RSF Association (858-756-1174; 17022 Avenida de Acacias, RSF); Cost is $400 for a table of 10 by calling 858-756-4542. Limited seating will be available at the door.

Go to www.rsfbb.com for more information.