About the Band
It all started in 1975….
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About the Band
The band’s repertoire consists of over 1000 arrangements that include swing, Latin, rock, disco and more. Their band leader, Mark Fraser, directs their standard big band configuration of 5 saxophones, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, rhythm section and lead vocalist Kim Greenwood. The Commodores Big Band members embrace a spirit of enthusiasm, drive and professionalism that has determined the band’s success, longevity and popularity with fans of all ages.
Have a look at our Flickr page for historical photos of the band.
Band Personnel
Meet The Members Of The Band
- Leader – Mark Fraser
- Vocalist – Kim Greenwood
- Piano – Dave Paulson
- Bass – Don Fox
- Guitar – Liam Arthurs
- Drums – Robert Caldwell
- Percussion – Michael Clement
- Alto sax – Amanda Paterson, Don Mayer
- Tenor sax – Carl McLean, Rhys Batstone
- Bari sax – Chris Watt
- Trombones – Bruce Ham, Al Bennett Sue McTaggart, Brian Hawkins
- Trumpets – Matthew Martin, Dave Flello, Kevin Greenwood, Wayne Speller
Band History
It all began in 1975….
It soon became the Don Kerley Big Band and upon his retirement from the band in 1984, it was decided to use the name Commodores Big Band in keeping with the nautical flavor of the city of Victoria. Also in keeping with the nautical motif, a uniform of navy blue blazers, white shirts, pants and shoes.
In addition to the commitment and musicianship of the members over the years, another reason the band has been a success has been the fine dedicated leaders including the late Don Kerley, John Pinchback, and Marty Vanderweerd, Vic Keating, Al Butler, and Bruce Ham.
Two members deserve special mention:
Vocalist Clare Wynters retired from the band in 2012. She joined the band in 1985 and was a special feature of the band for over 25 years with her lively personality and wonderful sense of big band vocalizing.
A founding member of the Coppertones/Don Kerley/Commodores Big Band, tenor sax player Denis Lemon died in Victoria BC on Jan. 24, 2013. He joined the
Coppertones in 1975, and was Commodores Band Manager from 1986 to 2000 when he retired from the band. He was a tireless (actually relentless) promoter
of the band, and was responsible for getting extensive coverage in the local
media and “choice” gigs at Victoria and Vancouver Island top venues.
The “Coppertones” in 1975
- Bass – Dave MacLean Piano – Joan Bulmer Drums – Cliff Low
- Tenor – Ron Cheffins Altos – Don Hauser, Maurice Pothier
- Tenor – Denis Lemon Bari – John Grindley
- Bones – Dave Lee, Don Jickling, Hugh Barclay
- Trumpets – Rita Vinton, Terry Jones, Don Kerley, Bruce Hurn
A Few of Our Venues
Commodores Big Band has played all over Victoria – here are a few of the venues
