



MATRIX:Midland Series
The Count Basie Orchestra
FRI, MAY 15, 2026 / 7:30 PM
In the history of Jazz music, there is only one bandleader that has the distinction of having his orchestra still performing sold out concerts all over the world, with members personally chosen by him, for nearly 40 years after his passing. Pianist and bandleader William James “Count” Basie was and still is an American institution that personifies the grandeur and excellence of Jazz. The Count Basie Orchestra, today directed by Scotty Barnhart, has won every respected jazz poll in the world at least once, won 18 Grammy® Awards, performed for Kings, Queens, and other world royalty, appeared in several movies, television shows, at every major jazz festival, and major concert hall in the world. This great 18-member orchestra is still continuing the excellent history started by Basie of stomping and shouting the blues, as well as refining those musical particulars that allow for the deepest and most moving of swing.