PRESS RELEASE:  August, 2000

As part of its 25^th Anniversary Season, the Nebraska Jazz Orchestra is proud to initiate the presentation of the John Tavlin Award For “Outstanding Contributions to Music in Lincoln Nebraska”.

The John Tavlin Award is named in honor of one of the founding members of the Nebraska Jazz Orchestra.  This award, presented annually, is given to an individual or organization that has given outstanding support to musical performance, especially in the field of big band and jazz music, in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The first annual award will be presented to Bobby Layne, leader of the Bobby Layne Orchestra and owner of the Pla-Mor Ballroom, where live music has been a regular feature for many years for the dancing and listening pleasure of the residents of Lincoln and the surrounding area.

Bobby Layne has been leading his versatile orchestra for many years.  The orchestra is well versed in any style of music from the 30’s up to today’s current hits.  The band travels nearly 100,000 miles per year pleasing audiences with the finest in Big Band Swing music.  In addition to an established following of loyal fans that remember the glory days of the Big Band era, Bobby Layne and his Orchestra are cultivating a younger audience, celebrating the resurgence of Swing.  Bobby Layne has a long-standing commitment to encouraging young musicians.  The orchestra regularly features high school stage bands at their home base, The Pla-Mor Ballroom in Lincoln.  These bands open for the Bobby Layne Orchestra and play during intermission.  By the end of the evening, the two bands combine their talents, making that big band sound even bigger.  Bobby Layne was named 1998 National Bandleader of the Year by the National Ballroom & Entertainment Association, and has received the National Ballroom Operators Award for “Outstanding Performance”.

Bobby Layne will receive the Nebraska Jazz Orchestra’s John Tavlin Award for “Outstanding Contributions To Music In Lincoln, Nebraska” at the NJO’s Season Opening Dance on September 15, 2001, at the Pla-Mor Ballroom, in Lincoln.  The event, entitled “Friday Night Special”, will begin at 8:00 p.m.  Tickets will be available at the door, or you can order in advance by calling the Nebraska Jazz Orchestra business office.  Tickets are $5 for Students, $8 for Seniors, $10 for Adults.