Role

:

Ensemble

 

The BBC Dance Orchestra was a prominent classical music ensemble that was founded in 1928 by the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The orchestra was established to provide live music for the BBC's radio broadcasts, which were becoming increasingly popular at the time. The BBC Dance Orchestra quickly became one of the most popular and influential orchestras in the UK, and it remained active until 1944. The BBC Dance Orchestra was led by a number of prominent conductors and musicians over the years, including Henry Hall, Jack Payne, and Billy Ternent. These leaders were responsible for selecting the orchestra's members and shaping its sound, which was characterized by a lively and upbeat style that was well-suited to dance music. One of the most notable members of the BBC Dance Orchestra was vocalist Al Bowlly, who joined the ensemble in 1930. Bowlly was known for his smooth and expressive singing style, and he quickly became one of the orchestra's most popular performers. Other notable members of the orchestra included saxophonist Harry Hayes, trumpeter Nat Gonella, and pianist Charlie Kunz. The BBC Dance Orchestra was known for its lively and engaging performances, which were broadcast live on the BBC's radio stations. The orchestra's repertoire included a wide range of popular dance music styles, including foxtrots, waltzes, and swing music. The orchestra also performed a number of original compositions, many of which were written by its members. One of the highlights of the BBC Dance Orchestra's career was its performance at the 1937 Coronation Ball, which was held to celebrate the coronation of King George VI. The orchestra played a number of popular dance tunes, and its performance was broadcast live to millions of listeners around the world. The orchestra's performance at the Coronation Ball helped to cement its reputation as one of the UK's premier orchestras. The BBC Dance Orchestra also received a number of awards and accolades over the years. In 1935, the orchestra was awarded the Melody Maker Cup, which was presented to the UK's most popular dance orchestra. The orchestra also received a number of other awards and nominations over the years, including several Ivor Novello Awards for its original compositions. Despite its success, the BBC Dance Orchestra was disbanded in 1944 due to budget cuts and changing musical tastes. However, the orchestra's legacy lives on, and its recordings continue to be enjoyed by music lovers around the world. The BBC Dance Orchestra played an important role in the development of popular music in the UK, and its influence can still be heard in the music of today.

More....