Excerpt from Valley Advocate Sept. 15, 2005 Grand Band Slam 2005

by James Heflin, Daniel Oppenheimer and Kendra Thurlow - September 15, 2005

The Valley is home to incredible musical diversity, and apparently a similar range of diversity in its music fans: this year's Band Slam generated a staggering number of votes.

There are voices old and new, and at least one unusual sweep--Aquanett, purveyor of '80s hair-band rock, not only won best tribute band, they took an incredible four instrument categories as well. It seems more of our readers need regular fixes of "Eye of the Tiger" than perhaps anyone imagined. You know who you are.

No matter what kind of music makes your booty shake, be prepared for a knock-down-drag-out night with the Valley's finest musicians when many of our winners and some special guests turn Springfield's Worthington Street and environs into a musical paradise Sept. 22 for the Grand Band Slam.

Without further ado (or Flock of Seagulls hair-dos), here's what happened when we tracked down our winners for a little quality Q&A time

Jazz

Amherst Jazz Orchestra

You can find the 17 members of the Amherst Jazz Orchestra--that's five saxes, five trumpets, four trombones, a guitar and bass drums--every first and third Monday of every month at the Amherst Brewing Co. You've been able to find them there for the last six years. That's commitment, especially considering that they come from all over the state. We heard from David Sporny, the orchestra's director.

Q: How do your describe your sound?

A: Our sound is like a contemporary big band, fashioned after Thad Jones and Bob Brookmeyer. We are basically a concert organization with an emphasis on featuring soloists in the band.

Q: First gig? How much, if anything, were you paid?

A: Our first gig was at Fire & Water in Northampton and we got juice and cookies.

Q: Best gig?

A: Our best gig was being in residence for the Amherst College Duke Ellington symposium and performing with such great musicians as Herb Pomeroy and Gunter Schuller.

Q: Any parting thoughts?

A: We are very honored to have been chosen again for this award. A big band is not usually considered for this category. All of my guys are great soloists, and it is wonderful that they have been recognized for their artistry.