The Notables Swing Band provides live music for events (e.g., parks, fairs, restaurants, theaters, weddings, anniversaries, etc.) that promote music history awareness and support music education in the Central Oregon High Desert Education Service District.
--- This keeps the Big Band Sound alive! ---
Notables Swing Band (aka The Notables or The Notable Big Band) plays tunes of the Big Band Era from the 30's, 40's, and 50's created by such memorable band directors as Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Cab Calloway, Tommy Dorsey, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman, Glen Miller, Artie Shaw, and many more.
After expenses, proceeds from our performances, benefits, and donations go to public school students by way of instruments and scholarships. Equally, our 501(c)(3) non-profit organization enables students to participate in various educational opportunities with The Notables.
The Notables give new instruments to local schools in Central Oregon. A new intermediate level alto saxophone was given to the Redmond High School. A beginner level alto saxophone was given to Obsidian Middle School. An alto saxophone is shown on the right; whereas, a tenor saxophone is shown on the left.
The Notables give quality used instruments to local schools after they have been cleaned, services, and repaired. A used professional level trombone was given to Ridgeview High School. A professional bass trombone is shown in the forefront of the picture. The trombone has two sets of extra tubing that by valves enable air to pass through one or both to achieve lower notes. Also, professional trombones are made of different metals. The high copper alloy Gold Brass of the bends give low notes a mellow sound. The Nickel Silver slide enables a quick response. The reddish Ross Brass bell produces rounded warm tones
The Notables give scholarships to worthy students in need. In addition to scholarships for students playing instruments, the band set aside funds contributed by those honoring the band's beloved singer Betty Berger. The funds will be used in the future to provide Betty Berger Vocal Scholarships.
Steve is the Band Director at Bend High School, and he is our drummer.
Marilyn, a retired Learning Disabilities teacher, plays trumpet. She also plays in The Cascade Horizon Band.
Herb, retired from the U.S. Foreign Service, plays trombone. In The Cascade Horizon Band, he plays french horn.