Lovers of swing music will be able to enjoy the big band sound with the Syd Lawrence Orchestra when it performs at the TPS Studio in March.

Founded in 1967 by trumpeter and arranger Syd Lawrence, the fabulous Syd Lawrence Orchestra has been thrilling audiences in concert halls, theatres, tv shows and music festivals all over Great Britain and continental Europe for more than 50 years.

Renowned for its exciting blend of high-octane big band swing and classic dance music, the orchestra’s repertoire ranges from the wartime million sellers of the legendary Glenn Miller through the era of the great Count Basie Orchestra to the hit songs of Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald.

Count Basie himself described the Syd Lawrence Orchestra as ‘so good it should be banned’.

Syd passed away on May 5, 1998, but in the music library he created he left behind a legacy which continues to benefit future generations of musicians and music lovers.

Since then, the orchestra has been led by trombonist Chris Dean, who joined in 1978, and as a session musician has recorded with Frank Sinatra, Quincy Jones, Nelson Riddle, George Shearing, Bob Farnon, Angela Morley, Henry Mancini, Michel Legrand, Barbara Streisand, Natalie Cole, Liza Minelli, Mel Torme and Shirley Bassey.

In 1996, following Syd’s retirement from touring, Chris took on leadership of the Syd Lawrence Orchestra.

And it has thrived under his direction, keeping Syd’s invaluable legacy to British musical life alive.

Today the Syd Lawrence Orchestra is as highly rated as ever, with recent changes in personnel breathing fresh life into the band, and with Chris’ experience as musical director and front man, concerts have never been better received.

A spokesman for The Petersfield School Studio said: “We are simply delighted to announce the incredible Syd Lawrence Orchestra will be joining us for the very first time at The Studio.

“Led by the wonderful Chris Dean, this world-famous energetic orchestra will bring you an exciting evening of your Glenn Miller and big-band era favourites.

“Hold on tight as this bracing band of fine musicians take you on a magical swing band journey back in time.

“And to top it off, Chris will be inviting a select few of the very talented TPS music students into the band.

“This will offer them a unique experience to join this world-famous orchestra that has enthralled audiences young and old for more than 50 years.”

Tickets for the concert in the Studio at The Petersfield School on Thursday, March 31 cost £20 (concessions £17.50) and should be booked through the website at https://thestudiotps.com/