The Big Band sound is typified by the standard instrumentation of five saxophones, four trumpets, four trombones, a rhythm section consisting of bass, piano, drums and guitar, and vocalists. This combination of instruments provides a wide range of possibilities from lush sounds to the hard-driving modern sounds of today's big bands. THE BAND THE OLD PROS Band, an all volunteer organization, was founded in January 1973 by a small group of musicians interested in preserving and playing the sounds of the Big Band Era. From this interest came the sponsorship by the New River Community College. Since the first rehearsal in 1973, the band has grown to a full 18 members.
Membership includes professionals, educators, small business owners, farmers and students.
Their ages and musical backgrounds are as varied as their professions. THE OLD PROS Band is directed by Ronnie Ingle. Ronnie is currently a candidate for the Doctor of Music Arts Degree in Trumpet Performance from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. An active performer, Ronnie has been a member of the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra, the Metropolitan Orchestra of St. Louis, the St. Louis Big Band, the Smoky Mountain British Brass Band and the Asheville Symphony. He also holds active memberships in the International Trumpet Guild, Music Educators National Conference, the North Carolina Music Educators Association and the College Music Society.