When asked why they're called "a jazz-oriented swing band," McCreary answered, "The musicians in this band want to play complex, exciting arrangements." He told how, in 1957, his younger brother Lew was rejected by the hugely successful but musically docile Lawrence Welk Band.

"Lawrence said, 'Lew, you play fine trombone, but you don't smile enough. Lew did not get the job--it was the best thing that happened. He went on to freelance in the Los Angeles studio system. He did it all--recordings, TV shows, movies, radio. The diversity and challenge of playing with the finest directors and musicians in the world is the fulfillments of any musician's wildest dreams."

While growing up in Northumberland, McCreary took clarinet at age twelve. He excelled on that instrument and later switched to saxophone. During his Army years (1943-1946) he found himself in bands with musicians from major symphonies, the British Grenadier Guards, the Garde Republican Band of France, and "Pershing's Own--The US Army Band."

Even during World War Two, McCreary found time to study under Roy Hammerslag (renowned US Army Band jazz saxophonist) and Hank Freeman (Glenn Miller Band). While in Paris, McCreary interfaced with now-famous players--classical trumpeter Maurice Andre, jazz violinist Stephan Grappelli, guitarist Django Reinhardt, and others.

McCreary's current big band includes some of the finest musicians in the region. "Keep in mind that swing is for listening and dancing," noted McCreary, who believes the music is for the head as well as the feet.

Click on photos at left for anecdotes from the early days!