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Song Samples		 Annapolis Junction Big Band

Annapolis Junction Big Band History

Jim Tavener, currently the leader and lead trumpet player, founded the band, now known around town as AJ, in 1991.  AJ got it's name from the location of an accident which occurred in 1980 on the old route 32 near the small town of Annapolis Junction.  No, Jim was not driving, but had a front row seat. An elderly German couple was approaching a stop sign, east bound, on old route 32.  Expecting oncoming traffic to stop, they started up, right into the approaching traffic.  Wham!  Head on into the car Jim was riding in.  The couple's brand new MG was totaled.  They experienced only minor injuries, fortunately.

Ollie Taylor was auditioned and won the drummer spot because he could read the music.  Reading percussion charts is a difficult business.  Ollie eventually became the leader and moved rehearsals to his cozy basement.  Recently, Jim took the leadership duties back. Ollie is now leader emeritus.  He has a 'signature wall' that has scratchin' from the who's who of the local (and beyond) music world.  Ollie has played in and founded several bands.  One that is still active is the Spa Creek Band, a six piece straight ahead jazz as well as Dixieland band.

AJ has been rehearsing at 120 Spa View Avenue, Annapolis, MD, since 1992.   Thanks to a superior carpet insulation job (on the ceiling, etc.), there have been no neighborhood complaints.  One common suggestion has been to hang a shingle out and invite all to Ollie's exclusive basement jazz club.  We have had many an intimate audition for prospective weddings and private functions.

Since 1994, AJ has played private and public affairs in and around Annapolis and Baltimore including:

Because AJ plays a lot of swing music, we have been also billed as the Annapolis Junction Swing Band.

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