End of summer features big bands royale

HOOD RIVER — Two big bands. One stage. On Sept. 10, the Jazz Collective Big Band of Hood River joins forces with Portland’s acclaimed North Portland (NoPo) Big Band for the End of Summer Big Bands Royale, a showcase concert at The Ruins.

Two full horn sections. Two rhythm sections. A night of swing you won’t hear anywhere else performed under the open sky inside the wall of a century-old fruit cannery.

The Royale is a listening showcase giving both ensembles room to stretch out across the swing-era standards and contemporary big band writing that define their books. The evening culminates in a combined finale putting musicians from both bands on stage together.

“Two bands from two sides of the Gorge, one stage, and a sound you only get when you put that much brass and rhythm on the same stage. It’s the right way to close out summer and open our season,” said Michael Paul, Jazz Collective Director.

The Royale opens the Jazz Collective’s 2026-27 concert and dance season, which continues with “Moonlight Over the Gorge” at Cascade Locks Pavillion on Oct. 23, “My Funny Valentine — Sweetheart’s Dance” on Feb. 14, “Generations in Swing” with The Dalles High School Jazz Band on Apr. 3, and “Full Bloom Swing” on May 2.

Tickets available at the door or gorgeorchestra.org after Sep. 1.