The music of the Swing Era (1935-1946) was so popular among teenagers that it dominated the airwaves across the world with its infectious dance beat, exciting horn harmonies, and cheerful lyrics.  Instrumentalists were idolized for their musicality and technical mastery and were young and energetic, with most of them in their twenties.  This came to an end after WWII, when the microphone brought stardom to the vocalist while bands became reduced in size with a focus on the singer that continues to this day.

The Beantown Swing Orchestra strives to bring recognition back to young players and the beautifully handcrafted instruments that were used during the Swing Era.  To achieve this, the band recruits talented students in high school and middle school and trains them on professionally-restored pre-WWII instruments that the band provides.  Once our musicians reach college age and have years of gigging experience behind them, many become mentors and teach the younger incoming players, thereby helping to perpetuate the performance of this timeless music.