In big band history, the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra is recognized as one of the best all-around dance bands. Popular almost from the moment it signed with RCA Victor in 1935, it could swing with the best of them. No other band could come close to Tommy’s when it came to playing ballads, especially with the addition of Frank Sinatra as male vocalist. “Opus One,” “Song Of India,” “I’ll Never Smile Again,” “Marie” and “Boogie Woogie” are part of a string of hit records that continue to be performed by The TDO still today. The One and Only Tommy Dorsey Orchestra under the direction of Jeff Bush continues this exciting big-band tradition for audiences worldwide, and fans of all ages.
Tommy Dorsey Orchestra:
The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra was a leading force in Big Band history. Tommy Dorsey, the “Sentimental Gentleman of Swing,” crafted warm, melodic moods that captivated audiences. The band gained popularity in 1935 with its first major hit and later shifted from hot jazz to popular songs, showcasing standout vocalists like Jack Leonard and Frank Sinatra. Sy Oliver brought a fresh musical spirit, and the group thrived in the 1940s. Despite the decline of big bands in 1946, Dorsey kept the tradition alive, and his orchestra continued under various leaders, including Buddy Morrow, Jeff Bush, and others.
Jeff Bush:
In 2000, Apollo, Pennsylvania native Jeff joined The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra conducted by trombone legend Buddy Morrow, and toured with the TDO on and off over the next few years, playing many of the great Tommy Dorsey solos and fronting the band on occasion in Buddy’s absence. During this same time, Jeff moved to New York City to begin graduate work at The Manhattan School of Music, and to build a music career that continues to flourish today. He has been privileged to perform with numerous master jazz artists including Benny Golson, Jon Hendricks, Ahmad Jamal, to name a few. Additionally, he has performed with some of the best big bands in jazz including The Count Basie Orchestra, The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and others.
