Whether a private party, concert or corporate event, the Gary Wood Swing Band delivers a great event. Gary and his band offer the very highest quality music, but also bring a touch of fun and personality.

The Band

The band has been together for well over a decade - they love what they do and there’s a clear rapport between them. The rhythm section has drive and energy, while Gary’s personality and inimitable charm will be sure to win over the audience. The Gary Wood Swing Band will be certain to get you tapping your feet, probably singing along… and possibly even up dancing!

The band performs a varied set list inspired by the ‘rat pack’ era. Their extensive repertoire includes favourites from Louis Prima, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and Dean Martin to mention just a few. And with more contemporary tunes there’s something for everyone.

The Gary Wood Swing Band normally performs as a quartet. This is well suited to weddings, dances, corporate receptions and private parties. 

The band frequently plays for dance events and is well versed in lindy-hop, rock and roll, jive and swing… they know a shim sham when they see one!

If you’re looking for something extra, then we often add a saxophonist. The Gary Wood Swing Band is also available as a duo or trio for smaller, more intimate occasions. We would be pleased to discuss your specific needs and help arrange your perfect event - just get in touch using the links below.

Based in Bedfordshire, the band typically performs in the surrounding home counties.  They do however travel further afield… and they are also up for performances abroad if you’d like to take them on an ‘all expenses paid’ holiday with you!

Take a Listen

Please listen to the samples below – we hope you’ll enjoy them!
If you’d like to know more about our repertoire then please get in touch.

The Musicians

The Gary Wood Swing Band contains some highly experienced musicians. They each have very different backgrounds and come together to deliver a great performance.

  • Vocals and Trumpet

    The band features the smooth vocals and trumpet playing of Gary Wood. Gary is a talented and extremely experienced musician, and although he performs with many different groups, he is most at home playing the classics from the American song book. Frequently appearing at jazz festivals across the country, entertainment and fun lie at the heart of Gary’s performances: he’s a natural ‘front man’ leading both band and audience.

  • Piano

    Roger is a talented piano player and works with many different bands, regularly preforming in some of the country’s best respected venues. He is equally at home playing solo classical performances as he is in a function band, but his true passion lies in jazz, soul and funk. Roger’s playing always brings energy and a touch of stye to the proceedings.

  • Double Bass

    Having started his musical interest as a classical guitarist, Chris began playing the double bass when he was fourteen. He did his first professional gig just a few months later… and hasn’t stopped since. Also a pianist, his passion for music runs deep and wide, but his playing is always underpinned by his love of jazz – he swings like his life depends on it.

  • Drums and Cowbell

    Ronnie is pretty much a legend. He’s the drummer of choice for many bands in the area and his CV reads like the ‘who’s who’ of the Country’s jazz scene. He’s the ultimate ‘session’ player, just as happy grooving on a soul classic as he is driving a big band. Ronnie certainly knows how to swing, and his sense of rhythm and timing drive the band. Finally, Ronnie plays an important role as the butt of most of the bands jokes – both on and off stage.

The Band in Action

  • "Omg what can I say that truly emphasis just how much we loved having you with us yesterday afternoon. Your band were absolutely amazing… I just loved it. Your passion for what you do as a group really shone through"

    – Sarah, Keech Hospice Care

  • "Gary and the band always bring such great energy to their sets. Their music is always swinging and our dancers absolutely love dancing to them! Super talented musicians and all-round lovely people too… Highly recommend!"

    – Charlotte, JiveSwing.com

  • "For well over a decade the band have been thrilling our dancers and listeners alike. With a wide range of material and superb musicianship they always put entertaining the audience first. Dancers can be a challenge for any band, but the Gary Wood Swing Band always leave our dancers wanting more. Thoroughly recommended - they're flexible, reliable and a delight to work with!"

    – Mike and Mel, Swingsters.co.uk

  • "Toes were tapping from the first note you played and everybody said it was fun.  It was a tremendous night with great music and great singing that put a smile on every face"

    – Jacqui

  • “Gary brought his swing band to the club for the first time and the session blew the audience away.  All first class musicians, highly entertaining with a varied repertoire and humour and fun.  Have never heard our audience sing so well as they did last night"

    – Pershore Jazz Club

  • “The music provided by Gary and his colleagues lifted everybody's spirits.  Gary gave us many familiar tunes, played and sung with warmth and expression.  A great and talented musical outfit"

    – Ken Waller

Contact Us

Please feel free to get in touch if you’d like to hear more about the Gary Wood Swing Band.

You can send us an email hello@garywoodswingband.com or fill out the enquiry form below and we’ll come right back to you.