Celebrating Nat King Cole

Join the Down for the Count Swing Orchestra for a celebration of one of the most iconic figures in swing music history: the incomparable Nat King Cole.

Enjoy timeless classics such as Mona Lisa, Let’s Face the Music and Dance and L-O-V-E lovingly brought back to life by the instrumentalists and vocalists of this sensational 30-piece orchestra – one of the few UK jazz ensembles to feature a string section.

This is not a tribute show, but rather a vibrant celebration of Nat King Cole’s life and music; a journey through the great man’s repertoire, from the intimate trio recordings he made early in his career to the later luscious orchestral work with arrangers such as Nelson Riddle and Gordon Jenkins.

Compèred by musical director and conductor Mike Paul-Smith, the performance blends anecdotes from Nat King Cole’s life with recreations of some of his greatest recordings, as well as original arrangements of other classics penned by members of the orchestra.

The Down for the Count Swing Orchestra is one of the UK’s leading swing ensembles with performance credits including Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club, the London Jazz Festival, Glasgow Royal Concert Hall and Twinwood Festival. Join them for this one-of-a-kind celebration of a true musical legend in 2026.

Programme Includes:
Mona Lisa, When I Fall In Love, Straighten Up and Fly Right, Let’s Face the Music and Dance, L-O-V-E, and many more!

Performers: Down for the Count Orchestra, Mike Paul-Smith, conductor, Marvin Muoneké, vocals, and further guest vocalists to be announced.