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Two-CD Christmas Collection Now Available from
Blue Moon Big Band

- Free shipping for orders received on or before December 5, 2003 -

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BALTIMORE, MD - November 3, 2003 - Maryland-based Blue Moon Big Band, a 19-piece swing orchestra that specializes in the timeless music of the American swing era, today announced the release of a two-disc set of big band, swing, and jazz Christmas songs. The release, entitled "Baby, It's Cold Outside: A Swingin' Christmas Collection from Blue Moon Big Band and Friends," is available on both CD and cassette, and is the fourth recording from the band in five years. The recording boasts a compilation of 31 songs from the full orchestra and its partner jazz ensemble, Li'l Bit of Blue, as well as guest appearances from several area musicians. It is initially available only through the band's web site (www.bluemoonbigband.com), live performances, or at Menchey Music or Sound Works Audio Productions, each located in Hanover, PA. The collection will initially sell for $22 on CD and $15 on cassette, plus shipping. Additionally, the band is extending free shipping for orders received on or before December 5, 2003.
[CD cover for "Baby, it's cold outside: A Swingin' Christmas Collection" by Blue Moon Big Band and Friends]	Rob Leonard, bandleader and founder of Blue Moon Big Band, said, "We are extremely proud of this fourth project. Personally, I've wanted to produce a Christmas recording since we started the band in 1998 and now it's here. The two-disc collection includes 25 songs from the full orchestra as well as 6 cuts from our smaller ensemble, Li'l Bit of Blue. I think the combination gives our listeners variety - everything from swing to big band to jazz and blues - and offers a little something for everyone. And, to add even more excitement to the recording, we've been honored to have eight very talented friends join us on 'Baby, It's Cold Outside,' - Pat Colgan, Mike Hirsh, Krista Lookenbill, Pat Sheaffer, and Jackie Klunk on vocals and Mark Cook, Clem Ehoff, and Tom Colgan on piano."
The band already had many of the songs for the recording in its library from Christmas concerts and dances in the past. Leonard, however, had his eye on several titles that he just couldn't find via the Internet or through the band's network of U.S. and international associates. So, he contracted three musicians in England who collectively arranged nine of the big band songs on the project. Led by Myles Collins of Lush Life Music (www.lushlifemusic.com), who also arranged songs for the band's 2001 offering, "Nice Work if You Can Get It," Jon Harpin and Alan Glasscock contributed to the project. All of the songs recorded by Li'l Bit of Blue were arranged by members of the band. Free shipping for early orders Blue Moon Big Band is currently extending free shipping for orders received on or before December 5, 2003, a savings of $4. Orders may be placed via the "Order Stuff" page of the band's web site, or by calling 410.756.2473 or 301.639.0770. A full listing of song titles on the recording is also provided on the web site. Area performances In conjunction with the release of "Baby, It's Cold Outside," Blue Moon Big Band will be performing "Blue Moon Big Band & Friends: A Swingin' Christmas Celebration" at the Eichelberger Performing Arts Center (http://www.goepac.com) in Hanover, PA on Sunday, December 21 as well as a big band dance on New Year's Eve at the newly restored Spanish Ballroom (http://www.wsdc.org/) in Glen Echo, MD. For information regarding Blue Moon Big Band's holiday performance schedule, visit the "See Us Swing" page of the band's web site. About Blue Moon Big Band Formed in May 1998, Blue Moon Big Band is a Maryland-based 19-piece swing orchestra specializing in the timeless music of the American swing era. Performing for audiences throughout the Mid-Atlantic region, Blue Moon Big Band has entertained at large functions for as many as 3,000 and at more intimate settings for as few as several dozen listeners and dancers. The band has also performed at both live and recorded television and radio events, including a 2001 feature presentation on National Public Radio, and its music has been played on over 60 radio stations across the U.S. Presently, Blue Moon Big Band's CDs have been sold in all 50 U.S. states and 10 international territories. Blue Moon Big Band has worked with some of the area's top dance instructors, including the 2001 American Lindy Hop Champions, and can arrange lessons before the event. The full orchestra, as well as its smaller partner ensemble Li'l Bit of Blue, is available for wedding receptions, corporate and private parties, dances, concerts, and other special events, and can provide anything from jump and jive for clubs or festivals to big band dance music for an elegant party or reception. Blue Moon Big Band presently has four recorded CDs. For information on pricing and availability, contact bandleader Rob Leonard at 410.756.2473 or 301.639.0770. For additional information, visit the Blue Moon Big Band website: www.bluemoonbigband.com.

© 1998-2003. Blue Moon Big Band, Li'l Bit of Blue, and "The entertainment should be a reflection of your good taste… why not shoot for the moon?" are trademarks or service marks, or registered trademarks or service marks, of Robert Alan Leonard DBA Blue Moon Big Band. All other product and company names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective holders.

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To purchase recordings from Blue Moon Big Band, visit the Order Stuff page.