🎶 Youth Jazz Excellence Brings Swing Era Magic to Collingwood
Photo credits: Eric Sutton
COLLINGWOOD, ONT. – First Presbyterian Church welcomed an enthusiastic audience on Saturday as the acclaimed Toronto All-Star Big Band (TABB) delivered an unforgettable afternoon of music, energy, and nostalgia.
Comprised of exceptionally talented young musicians aged 15 to 22 from across the Greater Toronto Area, the Toronto All-Star Big Band is far more than a typical youth ensemble. Through a rigorous audition process and professional-level training, these musicians perform some of the most beloved jazz and swing classics ever written, carrying on the rich traditions of legends such as Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, and Count Basie.
Audience members were treated to spirited performances of favourites including In the Mood, Sing, Sing, Sing, and Take the “A” Train, complete with dynamic choreography, vocals, and showmanship that transformed the concert into a true entertainment experience.
“This event was about much more than great music,” said organizers. “It was about investing in the next generation of Canadian musicians while bringing our community together in one of Collingwood’s most historic gathering places.”
Over the years, TABB musicians have had the opportunity to perform and learn alongside internationally renowned jazz artists including Doc Severinsen, Clark Terry, Benny Golson, Peter Appleyard, Oliver Jones, Ranee Lee, and many others. The organization’s commitment to excellence, education, and mentorship mirrors First Presbyterian Church’s own commitment to supporting arts, culture, and community engagement in Collingwood.
The concert formed part of the Church’s ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities and preserve the building as an important community performance venue. In addition to serving as a place of worship, First Presbyterian Church regularly hosts events for organizations such as the Collingwood Music Festival, ChoralWorks, Theatre Collingwood, and other local arts groups. This fund raising concert together with donations from church members and other community oriented grants are making it possible for First Presbyterian Church to continue as a facility to make a positive contribution in Collingwood.
Organizers extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended, volunteered, sponsored, and supported the event. Lindsay Rowe, member of First Presbyterian’s Finance Committee shared, “We are deeply grateful for the incredible community response. Every ticket purchased and every contribution helps ensure this building remains a welcoming space for worship, music, arts, and community gatherings for generations to come.”
Those wishing to support First Presbyterian Church’s ongoing capital improvements, including enhancements that benefit both the congregation and the wider arts community, are invited to make a charitable donation. Supporters may contribute through traditional cash gifts or through gifts of publicly traded securities, which can provide a tax-efficient way to support the church’s mission. Donations may also be directed to support the important work of the Collingwood Music Festival and other community arts initiatives that utilize the church’s facilities. More info at: www.firstprescollingwood.com/
As the congregation enters the fall season, visitors and members of the community are warmly invited to join Sunday worship services in the church’s newly air-conditioned sanctuary. Whether attending for worship, music, fellowship, or quiet reflection, all are welcome.
First Presbyterian Church looks forward to continuing its tradition of bringing people together through faith, music, and community connection.
Photo credits: Eric Sutton
