Ladies Must Swing

- 6307 Winnequah Rd, Monona, WI 53716

For those in the Madison, Wisconsin area who have a love for the classic sounds of the Big Band era and the energetic dance styles that accompanied them, Ladies Must Swing is a local treasure. More than just a musical group, this 18-piece, all-female big band is a vibrant and living tribute to a significant period of American music history. Founded over 27 years ago, the band's mission is to keep the momentum of women playing jazz going strong. They are known for their captivating performances that transport audiences back to the 1940s, complete with historical costumes and a repertoire of swinging standards. For many, attending a Ladies Must Swing performance is not just a concert; it's a chance to "re-live history" and be part of a community that celebrates good music and the joy of dance.

The band’s influence extends beyond their live shows. They are deeply committed to their art form and often collaborate with dance instructors to create a full experience for their audience. Their name itself, "Ladies Must Swing," is a nod to the essence of their music and the dancers who bring it to life. For local swing dancers, the band provides the perfect soundtrack for a night out on the dance floor. The presence of an all-female jazz band is not only musically inspiring but also serves as an important reminder of the historical contributions of women to the genre. Their dedication to the craft is evident in every performance, whether they are playing at a local park concert or a formal event. The diverse membership, ranging from college students to senior citizens, showcases the timeless appeal of their music and their ability to connect with multiple generations.

The group’s founder, June Dalton, and the entire band have created a legacy of music that continues to entertain, inspire, and encourage new generations of jazz lovers and dancers in the Wisconsin area. Their live shows are a testament to their professionalism and passion, offering a powerful blend of musical excellence and historical authenticity.

While Ladies Must Swing is a performance group and not a traditional dance school with a fixed address for classes, their contact information is tied to Monona, WI. This makes them a highly accessible point of interest for anyone in the Madison metropolitan area and beyond. The band can be found performing at various venues, often in places like Monona, Madison, and other towns throughout Wisconsin. For those looking to see them live, their performances are typically listed on their website and on local event calendars.

Their mailing address is 6307 Winnequah Rd, Monona, WI 53716, USA. This location serves as their administrative base, but their music and performances reach a much broader audience. The band is also committed to accessibility, with many of their public performances taking place at venues that feature a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that people with mobility needs can easily attend their shows. This commitment to inclusivity is a key part of their mission to share their love of music with the entire community.

Ladies Must Swing is not a traditional dance studio with a fixed schedule of classes at a single location, but rather a performance-based group that offers a variety of music and dance-related services.

• Music Lessons: Providing instruction in various musical disciplines, particularly focused on jazz.
• Private Music Lessons: One-on-one instruction tailored to the individual student's needs and goals.
• Swing Dancers: The band often collaborates with and provides music for swing dancers, serving as a hub for the local swing dance community.
• Live Performances: The primary service of the band is performing live at public and private events, ranging from summer concert series to private parties.
• Musical Recordings: The band has produced recordings that allow their music to be enjoyed by a wider audience, even when they are not performing live.

As a unique and highly specialized musical group, Ladies Must Swing has several key features and highlights that set it apart in the Wisconsin arts scene.

• All-Female Big Band: This is the most significant and defining feature of the group. As an 18-piece all-female big band, they are a rarity and an inspiring force in the modern jazz world, honoring the tradition of women in music.
• Historical Authenticity: The band fully embraces the image and sound of the Big Band era, with a repertoire of classic standards and historical costumes that evoke a powerful sense of nostalgia.
• Community-Focused: Their performances are often free and open to the public, particularly at community-sponsored summer concert series. This makes their music accessible to everyone.
• Wide Appeal: The band's music appeals to a diverse audience, from veterans who lived through the era to young people who are just discovering the joy of swing music and dance.
• Collaboration with Dancers: The band actively promotes the swing dance community, providing the ideal music for social dancing and working with local swing dance groups.

For more information, or to book the band for an event, you can contact Ladies Must Swing directly.

Address: 6307 Winnequah Rd, Monona, WI 53716, USAPhone: (608) 698-8944

For anyone in the Wisconsin region, choosing to engage with Ladies Must Swing is a truly rewarding experience. What makes this point of interest so special is its commitment to both musical excellence and a living history. This is not just a dance school or a band; it's a cultural institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the joy of the Big Band era. For those who want to be part of a vibrant and authentic music scene, either as a listener or a dancer, Ladies Must Swing provides the perfect opportunity. The band's all-female composition is a powerful statement and a source of inspiration, demonstrating that the rich history of women in jazz is alive and well.

Furthermore, the band's frequent public performances, often at free community events, make their music highly accessible to everyone. You don't need a special ticket or a membership to enjoy their artistry. Simply find them at a local park concert or festival, and you can enjoy a high-quality, professional show that's perfect for a night out with the family. The presence of swing dancers at many of their events adds an extra layer of excitement, turning a musical performance into a lively and interactive experience. This combination of top-tier music, historical authenticity, and community engagement makes Ladies Must Swing a standout choice for entertainment and cultural enrichment in Wisconsin.

In a world of pre-recorded music and commercialized entertainment, Ladies Must Swing offers a genuine, handcrafted experience. Their dedication to their craft and their mission to bring joy to their audiences through live, swinging music is a powerful reason to support them. By choosing to see them perform, you are not just enjoying a night out; you are helping to keep a beautiful tradition alive for future generations. It's an opportunity to come together, listen to great music, and maybe even get your feet moving on the dance floor.

Ladies Must Swing

6307 Winnequah Rd, Monona, WI 53716, USA