The Columbia River Gorge's premier outdoor music venue, The Ruins, will host an extraordinary evening of jazz with "Swing Summit at The Ruins: Two Bands, One Night." On Wednesday, August 27th, two powerhouse ensembles—the Jazz Collective Big Band from Hood River and Portland's acclaimed NoPo Big Band—will share the stage for a spectacular night of swing under the stars.
This unique double-bill promises an unforgettable showcase of big band music, featuring everything from beloved standards of the swing era to contemporary jazz arrangements. Each ensemble will perform a full set, transforming the natural amphitheater into a vibrant soundscape of brass, reeds, and rhythm. The evening will culminate in a historic grand finale, uniting musicians from both bands for an unprecedented collaborative performance.
"This is more than just a concert—it's a celebration of the Pacific Northwest's thriving jazz community," says Michael Paul, Jazz Collective Director. "Bringing together these two exceptional big bands creates a once-in-a-lifetime experience that showcases the incredible depth of talent in our region."
Event Details:
- What: Swing Summit at The Ruins: Two Bands, One Night
- Who: Jazz Collective Big Band and NoPo Big Band
- When: Wednesday, August 27th. Doors open at 6:00 PM, show at 6:30 PM
- Where: The Ruins, 13 Railroad St, Hood River, OR 97031
Tickets are $10 and can be purchased ahead at gorgeorchestra.org
About the Bands:
The NoPo Big Band is Portland's premier jazz ensemble dedicated to performing standards from the 1930s to the present. Under the dynamic leadership of Musical Director Scott "Herm" Anderson, the band has become a cornerstone of Portland's vibrant jazz scene. Anderson brings an impressive pedigree to the ensemble—before relocating to Portland in 2021, he spent 22 years performing at Chicago's most prestigious venues alongside luminaries such as Howard Levy (Béla Fleck), Pat Mallinger, and Marquis Hill. His original jazz project, the Nia Quintet, has released three critically acclaimed albums that have garnered praise from Jazz Times and Cadence Magazine. Anderson has graced stages at major festivals including the Chicago Jazz Festival and France's Blues Passions Festival, and has performed with jazz icons including Akira Tana, Rufus Reid, Tim Hagans, and Fred Hersch.
The Jazz Collective Big Band, a vital component of the Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association (CGOA), represents the finest jazz talent in the Hood River area. Under the inspired direction of Michael Paul, who joined as Lead Trumpet in 2017 and assumed the director's role in 2021, the ensemble has flourished into a regional powerhouse. Paul brings over 15 years of professional experience as a trumpet player and Musical Director from major cruise lines, combined with his prestigious training at the University of North Texas. His versatility shines through his active performances with the Southwest Washington Symphony and, notably, the NoPo Big Band—creating a unique musical bridge between the two ensembles performing at this summit. As part of CGOA's landmark 20th anniversary season, the Jazz Collective continues the organization's mission to "Connect, Inspire, and Create" through the power of live music.
About The Ruins:
The Ruins stands as Hood River's premier event venue, offering a breathtaking Tuscan-inspired setting for world-class performances. Its natural amphitheater and intimate atmosphere have established it as a beloved cultural destination in the Columbia River Gorge, where unforgettable musical moments come to life under the stars.
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