The M&J Big Band of Pottsville is swinging into 2025 with energy, passion, and a full slate of performances as they celebrate their 15th anniversary of delivering the iconic sounds of America’s big band era.
Since their founding in 2010, this dynamic ensemble has wowed audiences across Pennsylvania with powerful brass, smooth saxes, and classic vocals that harken back to the golden age of swing.
Originally founded in 2010 as a history project to celebrate the area’s big band roots, the band is led by Bandleader John Shoener, with the support of Associate Bandleader Jacob Shoener and Assistant Bandleader Josh Kovich.
Together, they guide a talented roster of musicians from across Schuylkill, Berks, Montour, Northumberland, and Montgomery counties. Their dedication and musicianship have made M&J a cornerstone of the regional jazz and swing scene.
Their mentor from the start has been Pottsville’s own musical legend, Lawrence O. Koch of the Braun School of Music.
In this milestone year, M&J Big Band also pays tribute to Schuylkill County’s own big band legends: Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey of Shenandoah, and Les Brown of Reinerton—giants of the swing era whose influence continues to inspire the band’s sound and mission.
To mark this special 15th season, M&J has many great surprises in store, including new arrangements, special guest performers, and fresh takes on classic favorites that will keep audiences on their feet all year long.
2025 M&J Big Band Performance Schedule
(as of April 13, 2025)
- April 25 – Les Brown Big Band Festival Dance, 6–9 PM
Wiconisco Fire Co. No. 1 – Wiconisco, PA
Admission: $10 - May 9 – North Schuylkill HS Jazz Fest Concert, 5:30 PM
M&J performs at 8:15 PM – Ashland, PA
Adults $10 | Students/Seniors $5
Featuring jazz greats Andy Gravish, Rob Stoneback, and Marko Marcinko - May 26 – Sweet Arrow Lake Concert, 6–8 PM
Pine Grove, PA
Free Admission – Bring a Chair
Guest: Trumpet legend Vaughn Nark - June 28 – Ss Peter and Paul Backyard Bash, 7–9 PM
Lehighton, PA
Free Admission – Bring a Chair - June 29 – Majestic Theater Show, 2–4 PM
Pottsville, PA
“You Can’t Play That With A Big Band!”
Tickets: $20
This one-of-a-kind show features bold, high-energy big band arrangements of songs you’d never expect from a traditional swing group. From Bon Jovi to John Philip Sousa, Meatloaf, Chicago, Michael Jackson, and more—this concert breaks all the rules and proves that a big band can rock, groove, and surprise in all the best ways. - July 12 – Walk-In Art Center Concert, 6–8 PM
Schuylkill Haven, PA
Free Admission – Bring a Chair - July 20 – Montfort Lounge Concert, 3–6 PM
Sheppton, PA
Free Admission – Bring a Chair - August 1 – Tel-Hai Retirement Community Concert, 7–9 PM
Honey Brook, PA
Free Admission – Bring a Chair - August 2 – Sunnybrook Ballroom Dance, 6–9 PM
Pottstown, PA
Dance lesson at 5 PM
Tickets: $15 in advance | $20 at the door
M&J is honored to perform at the historic Sunnybrook Ballroom, one of Pennsylvania’s most iconic big band venues. This storied ballroom has hosted countless legends of the swing era, including The Dorsey Brothers, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, and Artie Shaw. Stepping onto the same stage as these giants is a true honor for the band and a highlight of the 2025 season. - August 7 – Tamaqua Train Station Concert, 6:30–8 PM
Tamaqua, PA
Free Admission – Bring a Chair - August 23 – Claude E. Kehler Park Concert, 6–8 PM
Shamokin, PA
Free Admission – Bring a Chair - September 7 – Emmanuel Center Concert, 2–4 PM
Danville, PA
Free Admission – Bring a Chair - December 13 – A Swingin’ Christmas VII, 7–9 PM
Shenandoah Valley High School – Shenandoah, PA
Admission: $10
Proceeds benefit the Shenandoah Valley Band Boosters
The 7th installment of this holiday tradition returns to Shenandoah Valley High School, where M&J Big Band will delight audiences with a festive mix of big band and holiday hits, along with other timeless classics. This cheerful and heartwarming concert has become a fan favorite and is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
With a blend of nostalgia, musical excellence, and creative innovation, M&J Big Band’s 2025 season showcases why they remain one of Pennsylvania’s premiere big bands. Whether you’re a longtime swing fan or a newcomer to the genre, their performances promise something special for everyone.
Stay connected at www.mjbigband.com, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram at M&J Big Band to be the first to know about special guests, announcements, and surprises coming your way during this exciting anniversary year.
Submitted photo and press release
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