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BIG BAND SOUND ALIVE AND WELL AT LEMOYNE MANOR
55 PLUS - ENTERTAINMENT
by Lou Sorendo
"It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing." These lyrics by William "Count" Basie, commonly regarded as as one of the most important jazz band leaders of his time, hold true to Gordon Finch. Finch is a longtime member of the Rhythm Airs, a Syracuse-based band which began in the late 1950s and is still going full steam today.
The band, which does not practice, performs every Wednesday night at LeMoyne Manor on Old Liverpool Road. The band has been playing there for the past four years. The band draws a healthy crowd of 30 couples or so, mostly seniors, although there is a spattering of young folks in attendance.
A 6:30 pm buffet is followed by two one-hour sets. The band performs up to 50 times a year, taking breaks only when major holidays interfere with the regular schedule.
Starting with the opening Count Basie piece, the band spans the era when Glen Miller and Frank Sinatra ruled the musical roost. Proceeds from the shows are directed towards the troubled youth program in the Syracuse area. Funds are administered through the Catholic Church to help troubled youths find jobs.
While the music still draws a following, many couples at LeMoyne Manor "cut the rug" and dance to the popular tunes of days gone by. "We play at a tempo that they can enjoy," Finch said. For those who enjoy Ballroom dancing, or like to do the "Lindy" or East Coast Swing, this band is for you.
Among the regulars at LeMoyne Manor every Wednesday is Syracuse icon Bob Barker, known for his Bob Barker's Famous Hot Dogs throughout the Syracuse area.
55 Plus is a magazine "for active adults in Upstate New York." Excerpts taken from April-May issue.