Charles Lonny West was the director of the Bethune Senior Center located on 157th Street and Amsterdam Avenue in Harlem from 1973 until 2003.  He became aware that there were some men who frequentled the center — having lunch, shooting pool and just hanging out–who were retired jazz musicians, who played with jazz and swing bands in the 20’s through the 50’s — The Big Band Era.  Lonny West got these men together and organized and developed the Bethune Big Band. Over time, the band performed at many senior centers across the New York City area.

Lonny appointed his brother, Paul, a jazz bassist well known for his work with Dizzy Gillespie and Lee Morgan, to conduct the Bethune Big Band from 2003 to the present.  Lonny passed away on June 3, 2018. Paul West continues to keep the band playing as a tribute to its founder, Charles Lonny West.

This event is a $5 suggested donation ticket with 50 max attendees. Please register in advance.