Big band sound is spirited, nostalgic

Spirited and playful, yet classic and dignified, the smooth, sultry sound of big-band music does more than entertain; it wholly encapsulates the style and spirit of a bygone era. Before a delighted crowd Saturday afternoon in von der Mehden recital hall, Memories Big Band brought some of that spirit back.

The concert was dedicated to the memory of Robert "Bud" Halpin, the founder and percussionist of Memories Big Band, who passed away in late 2008. The group continues to play as both a service to fans of big band and jazz, and to pay tribute to Halpin's legacy.

Singer Diane Darin also served as the afternoon's master of ceremonies, introducing each song and speaking fondly of Halpin's contributions to the group.

Opening with Bobby Darin's "Beyond the Sea," Memories Big Band played a powerhouse set list that surveyed some of the most popular classics from the era. The upbeat, cheery first half of the set got the crowd's blood pumping with songs including "Mack the Knife," "Little Brown Jug" and Glenn Miller's "In the Mood," (the "national anthem of jazz," Darin joked) among others.

As a pleasant surprise about halfway through the set, the ensemble played a composition by UConn student Geoffrey Spector, a vivacious and feverish piece entitled "Insomniac's Lullaby." Spector, the group's newest and youngest member, also spoke of Halpin's positive influence in an introduction to the song.

Proceedings mellowed out for a slower, more reflective second half, beginning with a haunting rendition of David Raskin's "Laura," led by Chris Donelan.

Although only singing in a handful of the numbers that afternoon, Darin's vocal prowess was given sufficient room to shine later on as she led the ensemble through "At Last" and "I've Got the World on a String," which served as the set closer.

Proceeds from the concert will go toward a scholarship that has been established in Halpin's name. The scholarship will benefit a music major in UConn's School of Fine Arts.

According to the group's Web site, Halpin began Memories about 15 years ago with a group of "musical friends." Jim Tardif, one of the group's trumpeters, now owns Memories Big Band and Jim Zerra now plays percussion in Halpin's place. Since its founding, the band's ranks have expanded to boast an admirable 17 members of a wide range of ages and backgrounds.