About
If you know how to lindy hop, watch TCM for fashion ideas in your wardrobe, appreciate style that never goes out of style, and listen to music from the era after prohibition and before rock and roll, then this band is for you!
Craig Gildner and The Blue Sky 5 were formed in 1999 by original members Craig Gildner and Tommy Greco during the high point of the swing dance resurgence. While other bands were donning outrageous zoot suits and playing jump blues, Craig was delving into the true classic repertoire of the swing era small bands from Basie, Ellington, Goodman and Shaw.
A unique feature of this band is that there are original songs and arrangements that stay true to the swing lexicon: you’d hardly know if it was written in 1944 or 2014. Vintage instruments and attire complete the effect. As testament to the band’s authenticity, it has appeared at premiere dance events such as DCLX, CincyLX, Jammin’ on the James, and Midsummer Night Swing.
Whether it’s a weekend dance, lindy hop exchange, theme party, or wedding, Craig Gildner and The Blue Sky 5 delivers classic American swing…and has a ball doing it!
Craig Gildner
Band Leader
Multi-Instrumentalist
Tommy Greco
Tenor Saxophone
Brett Lemley
Trumpet
Halley Shoenberg
Clarinet & Alto Saxophone
Greg Williams
Drums
James Fowler
Bass
MUSIC
Listen to Craig Gildner & The Blue Sky 5 on Spotify