About Us
The Velvet Tones is an Oxford-based Jazz Big Band playing in the Glenn Miller and Count Basie traditions.
The format of the band is the classic Basie line-up of five saxophones, four trombones, four trumpets, and a four-piece rhythm section of keyboards, guitar, bass, and drums.
Have yourself a merry little Christmas
The whoops and cheers echoing through the church at the end of each performance were clear confirmation that the sold out crowd were glad they’d battled the elements to witness such talent and love of music.
Forthcoming Events
Thursday 15th January 2026
The Big Band Double Header is our regular gig, held at the Oxford Golf Club on the Third Thursday of alternate months.
We invite a guest band and dancers to each event.
Entry to the big band double header is completely free to attend, and we raise money for local charities.
VE Day Special
Step back in time and celebrate VE Day with an uplifting evening of classic big band music.
Enjoy the unforgettable sounds of the 1940s as our big band performs swing-era favourites made famous during the wartime years.
Don’t miss our incredible VE Day concert. Always sold out early.
Players, singers and musical director
We were originally formed in the 1970s; sadly there are no original members left, but a few of our members have as much as 30 years’ experience with the band!
Our musical director is experienced lead trumpet player Dave Peers. Previous musical directors include Danny Riley, Martin Pickett, Mike Wilkins, Richard Balding and Frank Wolff.
We have two very strong singers who also perform the Master of Ceremonies function at gigs. All our players have long experience in jazz, and many are professional music teachers. We also have an extremely good PA and sound engineer at our disposal.
We welcome new players at all times. The band is striving to be as diverse as possible; we are an extremely friendly bunch of people and will welcome anyone keen to play. Get in touch with a view to playing with us.
Repertoire
We have a diverse repertoire that includes Count Basie, Sammy Nestico, Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Michael Buble, Woody Herman, Don Ellis and many more, as well as original compositions.
