Mama Mable's All-Gal Big Band Jazz Extravaganza

Music—it can mend the soul…

It’s the 1940’s! Women around the world find themselves filling roles that had traditionally been filled by men who have gone off to war. One such role includes stepping into the spotlight to bring some smiles and entertainment to those still at home. Mama Mable and her traveling big band come to town in this rhyming fictional story written and illustrated by Annie Sieg that is based on some very
real leading ladies of the swinging, jazzy big band era.

…When times call for some healing.

L👀K

What are Big Bands?

A brief history…

Duke Ellington and His Orchestra

…And Ms. Ella Fitzgerald!

Sing, Sing, Sing!

by Benny Goodman

Melba Liston

Trombonist, Composer and Arranger

Listen 👂

Jazzy Gals

Listen on Spotify

Learn ✍️

Meet the Band

Lil Hardin-Lil was an extraordinary piano player who composed and arranged music for several big bands. Her talents helped Louis Armstrong (her husband for a few years) become famous!

Melba Liston-Melba Liston was the first female trombone player to play in all-male big bands. She inspired female musicians who were not vocalists to join the big band scene.

Valaida Snow-Most know for her skills on the trumpet, Valaida played several instruments including violin, cello, bass, mandolin, accordion and saxophone. She began performing when she was just four years old.

Viola Smith-Viola got her start in show business performing in a group her father started, The Smith Sisters Orchestra. She lived to be 107 years old!

Willie Mae Wong-Willie Mae was a member of the International Sweethearts of Rhythm, the first all women integrated band. She played baritone saxophone with the group that toured in the United States and overseas.