The Count Basie Orchestra, with current director, Dennis Mackrel, is one of the most thriving big bands in history. With 17 Grammy awards, the musicians have grown up with the Kansas City Swing style of Count Basie and added their own voice to the band. With 19 performers, 17 sidemen, 1 vocalist, and 1 bandleader, they’ve become the premier jazz band. There is a distinct Kansas
City style swing that is unique to the Count Basie Orchestra. The Orchestra celebrates the big band experience through the completely original and identifiable Count Basie repertoire and shares the experience of her musical heritage with the audiences.