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The Springfield Armory, Big Band
Our annual Big Band Concert is back!
Dust off those dance shoes and join us on our historic grounds for our annual Big Band concert. Dan Gabel and the Abletones, featuring acclaimed vocalist Kimberley Clark, will be playing songs of the big band era. Come to Springfield Armory this Saturday from 6pm-8pm for a free fun night of music and dancing! Join in the tradition of Armory employees who enjoyed a show by the Benny Goodman Orchestra during World War II.
Set against the backdrop of the historic Armory grounds, this open-air concert offers a unique opportunity to enjoy big band music in a setting steeped in American history. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to relax and enjoy the performance in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Admission is free and open to all.
While the museum itself will not be open during the concert, visitors are welcome to stroll the Armory’s scenic grounds and take in the atmosphere of this storied site, which played a central role in the nation’s military and industrial development. Inclement weather moves the performance to the Springfield Technical Community College auditorium.
Annual Big Band Concert
In honor of the historic 1943 Benny Goodman Armory show. In 1943 Benny Goodman and his band came to the Armory as part of his nationwide Twilight Tours. Goodman made a point to play to war workers like those at Springfield Armory as a thank you for their dedication and patriotism. The Armory workers were essential in the manufacturing of firearms for the military during WWII.
Benny Goodman playing clarinet with band pictured behind him.
