The Bear River Jazz Band will be swingin’ into the 22nd Annual Swing into the Night dance at the ‘Rio Oso Night Club’ [aka the MPR] on February 8.

“Swing into the Night is a … swing style dance for Bear River students and local community members,” said Music Director David Ahrens. “It has live music provided by the Jazz Band and swing dance instruction throughout the evening. There will [also] be desserts and snacks provided as part of your ticket price.”

According to Mr. Ahrens, the dance was previously scheduled in October, however, it was postponed due to the PG&E power outages that occurred earlier this year. 

“This weekend [February 8] was the first available time that was practical,” he said.

This community dance at Bear River is made up of swing music from the 30s and 40s. Many of the musicians in the band expressed their love for this type of music, like Senior Connor Ronka.

“Swing into the Night is a cool thing where we play lots of swing songs from the past, including a lot of famous songs like ‘In the Mood’ and ‘Pennsylvania 6500,’” he said. “I always love playing music in the swing dance, and with the 2020’s it’s a fun time to play swing music.”

Many of the other musicians in the group are thrilled about playing for the general public.

“I always look forward to Swing into the Night because of how well the group performs every year,” said Junior Noah Dunhower. “We hold this event every year, so we all get used to playing the same songs, and it always turns out really well.”

In contrast to other dances, this one offers a different outlook at the music before our time. 

“[The dance] is a great opportunity for our students to experience how fun it is to dance to a live band as well as getting a little view into the past,” said Mr. Ahrens. “School dances in the days of the grandparents or great-grandparents were all like this.”

Dunhower had similar sentiments to Mr. Ahrens.

“It’s definitely one of the most unique events at Bear River and without a doubt the most unique dance here as well,” said Dunhower. “It’s a really cool ‘throwback dance or concert’ if you want to think about it that way.” 

Some feel that this dance is completely different than a regular modern-day school dance, including Senior Lydia Fuller-Hall.

“I think this dance is a great contrast to the other dances put on by the school,” she said “It has live music and there’s no scary mosh pit. It’s super inclusive… and tons of fun.”

Another aspect about this dance that is not like the others is that it is open to the entire community, not just students. 

“The community should be aware that this event is open to everyone of all ages,” said Mr. Ahrens. “We encourage Bear River students, Magnolia students, families, community members, etc. to all come and have fun together.”

Other students in the Jazz Band agreed.

“Anyone can come to this event and everyone is encouraged to,” said Dunhower. “It’s a lot of fun, and always more fun than students think before they go and have a great time. It’s also a great event for the community in general.”

Mr. Ahrens and the Jazz Band are enthusiastic for this year’s Swing into the Night. 

“I encourage everyone to dress up,” Mr. Ahrens said. “Look up the styles of the ’30s, ’40s, or ’50s and help us set the mood! It is at 7 p.m. in the MPR at Bear River on Saturday, February 8th. Tickets can be purchased at the door or by going to the Bear River Music page on Facebook.”