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Celebrating Nat King Cole with the Down for the Count Swing Orchestra

Celebrating Nat King Cole with the Down for the Count Swing Orchestra

Music

Thu 2 July · Cambridge

Thursday, 2 July 2026 · 7:30 pm – Friday, 2 October 2026

About

Join the Down for the Count Swing Orchestra for a celebration of one of the most iconic figures in swing music history: the incomparable Nat King Cole . Enjoy timeless classics such as Mona Lisa , Let’s Face the Music and Dance and L-O-V-E lovingly brought back to life by the instrumentalists and vocalists of this sensational 30-piece orchestra – one of the few UK jazz ensembles to feature a string section.

This is not a tribute show, but rather a vibrant celebration of Nat King Cole’s life and music; a journey through the great man’s repertoire, from the intimate trio recordings he made early in his career to the later luscious orchestral work with arrangers such as Nelson Riddle and Gordon Jenkins.

Compèred by musical director and conductor Mike Paul-Smith, the performance blends anecdotes from Nat King Cole’s life with recreations of some of his greatest recordings, as well as original arrangements of other classics penned by members of the orchestra. * Programme includes: Mona Lisa When I Fall In Love Straighten Up and Fly Right Let’s Face the Music and Dance L-O-V-E and many more!

Performers The Down for the Count Swing Orchestra Mike Paul-Smith, conductor Marvin Muoneké, vocals and further guest vocalists to be announced

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via visitcambridge.org