Andrej Hermlin and His Swing Dance Orchestra: Reviving Classic Swing
Andrej Hermlin and His Swing Dance Orchestra is a German ensemble dedicated to the authentic revival of 1930s and 1940s swing and dance band music. Led by pianist and arranger Andrej Hermlin, the orchestra has built a substantial discography and a reputation for meticulous historical recreation, performing internationally since its formation in the 1990s.
Early career
The orchestra was founded in Berlin in 1994 by Andrej Hermlin, the son of writer Stefan Heym. Hermlin, a classically trained pianist, developed a deep passion for the pre-war American swing era, a genre largely suppressed in Germany during the Nazi regime. The ensemble's initial goal was to faithfully reconstruct the sound and repertoire of legendary bands like those of Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman for a modern European audience.
Breakthrough
The orchestra gained wider recognition through extensive touring and a series of well-received albums on the German label Buschfunk. Their breakthrough came with increased media visibility in the early 2000s, particularly through performances on public television broadcasts and at major European jazz festivals. While not achieving mainstream pop chart success, their albums consistently found an audience among swing enthusiasts and history buffs, solidifying their niche.
Key tracks
In the Mood — Their rendition of the Glenn Miller classic became a signature concert opener, showcasing their precise section work and driving rhythm.
Chattanooga Choo Choo — This track highlights the orchestra's skill in vocal features and complex arrangements, often performed with guest singers.
Sing, Sing, Sing — A demanding showcase for the drummer and the entire band's energy, demonstrating their ability to handle the explosive power of Benny Goodman's repertoire.
Tuxedo Junction — This performance emphasizes the lyrical and melodic strengths of the ensemble, a cornerstone of their dance hall sets.
The orchestra's later career includes numerous themed albums and concert series. They have collaborated with artists like singer and trumpeter Max Raabe, though Hermlin's project remains distinctly focused on American swing rather than German cabaret. Their recorded output includes albums dedicated to the music of Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, and World War II-era radio broadcasts.
For fans of the classic big band sound, similar artists featured on our site include Max Raabe who leads a German ensemble specializing in 1920s and 30s pop. The Pizzarelli Boys offer a guitar-driven take on jazz and swing standards. The meticulous revivalism of The Boogie Freaks also captures the energy of vintage American music.
The music of Andrej Hermlin and His Swing Dance Orchestra is featured on classic swing and big band radio stations across our network. Their recordings are staples on specialized programs dedicated to historical jazz and live concert broadcasts, appealing to listeners seeking authentic period performances.
You can hear the timeless swing of Andrej Hermlin and His Swing Dance Orchestra on dedicated radio stations available through onairium.com. Explore our curated selection of vintage music streams to discover this orchestra and other keepers of the classic big band tradition.
