Orcatrazz Swing Band to Perform at “Music in the Park”

Orcatrazz brings swing music alive on Orcas. See them free at "Music in the Park" Sunday July 10

Orcatrazz, founded and led by Ken Speck, will be the featured band in what will be the 100^th concert of the “Music in the Park” series on Sunday, July 10.

“Music in the Park” is sponsored by the County Parks Department. This marks the 11^th year of performances by local musicians where everyone is invited to share an evening absolutely free of charge at the Stage on the Green in the heart of Eastsound.

“The name Orcatrazz came about because like Alcatraz we are sort of trapped on the island…Orcas Island, only we love it,” says band leader Ken Speck. The band plays music mostly from the swing band era and performs six to eight shows a year for community events, dances, weddings and bar mitzvahs, brown bags, or any occasion.

Bandleader Ken Speck performed and traveled with his own band for a number of years in a prior career before putting together Orcatrazz here on Orcas Island. The band members have varied experiences ranging from amateur to professional including students, music teachers, and studio musicians. “Most of all we have serious fun and enjoy making music of the big band era and we even add a rock and roll song on occasion for the younger crowd!” says Speck.

CDs are available and proceeds benefit the Orcas Family Health Center, which is a 501(c3) corporation and donations are tax deductible.

Orcatrazz personnel are:

• Clarinet – Bob Littlewood;
• Saxophones – Sam Winsor, Kaylee Grantham, Judy Whiting, Ginny Hawker;
• Trombones – Karen Key Speck, Bruce Heller, Joe Boucher;
• Trumpets – Pat Muffett, Dave Durand, Russ Harvey;
• Piano – Ron Meyers;
• Bass – Lizz Hanks;
• Guitar – Chris Waage;
• Drums – Randy Jezierski;
• Vocals – Beth Baker.

“Come early and picnic if you like,” says Speck. “Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy this summer series starting at 5 p.m.”