Swing Machine Orchestra - Paseando el Swing (2020)

The Swing Machine Orchestra (SMO), an original idea of violinists Suso Moreno and Raúl Márquez, is a string orchestra composed by 12 musicians, created to dance to the frantic swing rhythm of the 30s. The SMO’s repertoire is highly varied, and it has been specially adapted for this unique string ensemble in Europe. It includes for example arrangements of famous tunes interpreted by the legendary big bands of Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and Artie Shaw, such as Sing Sing Sing, Take the A Train, and In the Mood; swing versions of classical music works, such as the Violin Double Concerto in D minor by J.S.Bach; and Ragtimes by Scott Joplin. The ensemble comprises 3 first violins, 2 second violins, 2 violas, 2 violoncellos, and a base section of a guitar, double bass, and drums & washboard. In addition to playing music, the SMO works on incorporating theatrical components as part of its performances, with the direction of the choreographer and dancer Patricia Ruz.