Business Details
28 Years
experience
Experience the Classic Sound of Bedford Big Band
Founded in 1998, Bedford Big Band is a 19-piece swing ensemble based in Bedford, NH, dedicated to preserving and evolving the legacy of big band music. Under the direction of Karen Sayward, we blend iconic Swing Era classics, timeless jazz standards, and modern pop, funk, and Latin rhythms to captivate audiences across New England. Our mission is to provide talented musicians a platform to collaborate while offering accessible, high-energy entertainment for diverse events. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we prioritize community engagement and musical excellence, having performed at venues ranging from the Mt. Washington Hotel to local town concerts. Our ensemble features skilled soloists and vocalists, including collaborations with renowned artists like Delfeayo Marsalis.We maintain a versatile repertoire spanning Count Basie and Duke Ellington to contemporary hits, ensuring every performance resonates with audiences of all generations. Our commitment to professionalism and adaptability has made us a trusted choice for festivals, corporate events, and cultural celebrations. With over 25 years of experience, we continue to innovate while honoring the rich traditions of big band music. Our team handles logistics seamlessly, ensuring smooth coordination for event planners. From holiday strolls to summer concerts, we deliver unforgettable musical experiences tailored to each occasion.
Services
Live Music Performances
Event Entertainment
Swing Era Repertoire
Jazz Standards
Modern Pop/Funk/Latin
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We offer 25+ years of experience in live swing music performance.
- Our 19-piece ensemble features professional soloists and vocalists.
- We perform diverse repertoire spanning Swing Era to modern Latin hits.
- We operate as a nonprofit organization focused on community engagement.
- Our team handles event logistics with professional coordination.
What people say
Wide repertoire
Exciting performances
Fantastic musicality
Professional and easy to work with
Services
Live Music Performances
Our 19-piece ensemble delivers dynamic live performances spanning swing, jazz, pop, and Latin genres. Ideal for festivals, weddings, and corporate events, our shows combine technical precision with energetic stage presence. Audiences enjoy timeless classics and modern arrangements tailored to event themes.
Swing Era Repertoire
Specializing in 1930s-1940s swing music, we recreate the iconic sounds of Count Basie and Duke Ellington. This service includes period-accurate arrangements and vintage performance aesthetics for nostalgic events and historical celebrations.
Jazz Standards
Our catalog features definitive jazz standards performed with authentic instrumentation and improvisational flair. Perfect for upscale venues and cultural events seeking sophisticated musical ambiance with recognizable melodies.
Modern Pop/Funk
We adapt current pop and funk tracks into big band arrangements, bridging generational gaps at events. This service includes chart-topping hits reimagined with brass sections and rhythmic complexity for modern audiences.
Latin Music Sets
Our Latin repertoire incorporates salsa, mambo, and Afro-Cuban rhythms into big band frameworks. These high-energy sets create vibrant atmospheres for outdoor festivals and multicultural celebrations across New England.
People
Karen Sayward
Director
Karen Sayward leads Bedford Big Band with 25+ years of musical direction experience. A dedicated educator and performer, she has shaped the ensemble's diverse repertoire since its founding in 1998.
Questions
What types of events does Bedford Big Band perform at?
We perform at festivals, weddings, corporate events, holiday celebrations, and community concerts across New England.
Can you accommodate special song requests?
We can incorporate specific songs into our repertoire with advance notice, subject to arrangement feasibility.
How large is the ensemble?
Our standard configuration includes 19 musicians featuring brass, rhythm, and vocal sections.
Do you provide event coordination support?
Yes, our team assists with logistics planning to ensure seamless integration into your event schedule.
Are you available for private functions?
We accept private bookings for weddings, anniversaries, and exclusive parties with appropriate venue arrangements.
