The Astor Big Band provided a pleasant afternoon of nostalgic wallowing in Glenn Miller’s music. The iconic sound, re-created by the original line-up of instruments, was driven by full-blooded brass and reeds.

Narrator John Foster provided brief glimpses into Miller’s life and career. The opening sequence covered his early days when he was a member of top bands – Dorsey, Goodman and Noble. His first attempt at running his own band ended in financial disaster but a generous loan from Dorsey enabled him to start afresh and go on to worldwide success.

The band managed to squeeze in 27 numbers, many being familiar classics. It was refreshing to hear less well-known ones – Johnson Rag, Sun Valley Jump, Mission To Moscow and That’s Sabotage with a great vocal delivered by Maddie Cole. Other vocals came from Ollie Gourley and a backing group. There seemed to be microphone problems, especially for Gourley whose voice was distorted to a penetrating shrillness.

Members of East Sussex Dance contributed interesting dance routines, while top solo spots came from Jon Bennett, trumpet, and saxophonist Nimrod, whose variations were no enigma.

The audience were sent off home with the rousing St Louis Blues March.