Glenn Miller Orchestra fills Donna Reed Theater with memorable music

Photo by Gordon Wolf

First of Donna Reed Foundation’s American Icon: Focus on Iowa series.

The music of the world famous Glenn Miller Orchestra had toes tapping and people swaying in their seats at the Donna Reed Theater, September 21. The audience filled the main floor and spilled over into the balcony as the group filled the theater with their unamplified sound.

The tight performance kept the audience involved and spotlighted the talents of individual orchestra members. Applause greeted many of the musical selections, indicating the group had stirred fond memories.

The Glenn Miller Orchestra, under the direction of Nick Hilscher, consists of five saxophone players, four trumpeters, four trombonists and three rhythm musicians (piano, bass and drums). Two vocalists, one male and one female also accompany the band.

The Glenn Miller Orchestra, formed officially in 1956 under the direction of Ray McKinley, has earned a reputation as a highly disciplined, musical and visually entertaining musical organization. The band currently plays an average of 300 live shows per year in front of millions of fans.