Big Band Series

The series Best of the Big Bands ’92 has been under way at the Moonlight Tango Cafe since May. Produced by singer Diane Varga, who also books the artists for Lunaria in West Los Angeles, the series initially featured just instrumental ensembles but now spotlights a singer along with each band. “I think this is a good way to draw an audience, and most listeners like to hear a vocalist, even if it’s two or three numbers a set,” said Varga.

Here’s the upcoming program. Note that in August, the events move from Monday to Tuesday. “There’s no way we can compete with ‘Monday Night Football,’ ” said Varga, with a chuckle. All shows are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Cover charges are $13, except July 27, when the price is $15.

July 27: Compelling pianist Guilherme Vergueiro’s 20-piece Brazilian big band, with special guests Flora Purim, one of the most renowned singers from Brazil, and her husband, the astounding percussionist Airto Moreira. Also on tap: saxophonist-composer Moacir Santos, who appears in public infrequently.

Aug. 4: Reedman Buddy Collette, who will celebrate his 71st birthday Aug. 6, leads his big band and brings along such singers as Don and Alicia Cunningham.

Aug. 11: The H.M.A. (Hispanic Musicians Assn.) Salsa Jazz Orchestra, featuring trumpet ace Bobby Rodriguez and such vocalists as Candi Sosa.

Aug. 18: Bill Holman’s big band--another outfit, like Bruce Lofgren’s, that speaks tellingly with its own voice--teams up with ever-invigorating shouter Ernie Andrews.

Aug. 25: Trumpeter Buddy Childers’ orchestra with Varga and a special appearance by Frank Sinatra Jr.