About Us
The Neuse River Big Band is a community band was founded in 2019 by professional trumpet player Michael Howard, and David McGowan, an avid big band promoter who also served as the official announcer for the Baltimore Orioles. Michael has recently retired and the band is proud and honored to have David Richards (professional trumpet player, teacher and producer) as Director.
Are you interested in playing big band jazz with us?
Our band members love to play big band music and enjoy performing and sharing that passion with the community. Many of our players are adults that have been professional players or in music education and are looking for an outlet to play. We currently play 3 shows a year at the Garner Performing Arts Center (Christmas and Spring) and the Fuquay Varina Arts Center (summer). We also may play a private event if it works with our schedule.
If you are an accomplished musician interested in joining us, and are over 18, you can play as a substitute ("sub") or have a permanent chair if one is available. Please note that we are not a professional band but a community band or a "kicks" band (no pay). We currently rehearse on Thursday evenings in Garner, NC.
To get started please fill out this quick online form!
Photos on this page courtesy of Jan Hebel Photography and Diane Schafer Photography.