Lansing Symphony Big Band

Under the direction of John Dale Smith, the Lansing Symphony Big Band made its debut in the spring of 2001 at Jambalaya’s in Laingsburg. The Band features musicians of the Lansing Symphony as well as other respected performers from throughout the state. It has been featured at several Jazz Fests in Lansing’s Old Town and also performed at a 4th of July Celebration in Oldsmobile Park before an audience of 6,000. The Band’s repertoire includes famous tunes of the 20s, 30s and 40s, by composers such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Cole Porter and George Gershwin.

2008/2009 Big Band Concerts:

Sunday, October 19, 2008 - 3:00pm
Sunday, March 22, 2009 - 3:00pm

Dart Auditorium, Lansing Community College campus

Click here to purchase tickets.

John Dale Smith

Director John Dale Smith has been involved with a variety of productions throughout the mid-Michigan area. As pianist and music director for the Boarshead Theatre, he was involved in the productions of No Way to Treat a Lady, The All Night Strut, and The People vs. Friar Laurence, The Man Who Killed Romeo and Juliet.

Smith received a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Bowling Green State University and a Master’s degree in Piano Performance from Michigan State University. He is currently co-leader of J & J Sounds and head of the John Dale Quintet. He retired from Lansing Community College as Director of Communications and College Events, and now serves as Director of Music at Plymouth Congregational Church in Lansing. In addition, Smith is the newly appointed Executive Director for Lansing's BoarsHead Theatre.

Lansing Symphony Big Band