New Century Ragtime Orchestra

Biography

The New Century Ragtime Orchestra (NCRO) is a British ensemble founded in 1998 by arranger and bandleader Dave Kerr. Originating as an eight-piece band, the NCRO was established with the goal of authentically reviving and performing ragtime and early jazz music, genres that flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Over time, the group expanded to eleven musicians, broadening its repertoire to include not only classic ragtime compositions but also early jazz and hot dance numbers, reflecting the vibrant musical landscape of the era.

The NCRO is distinguished by its commitment to period authenticity, both in musical arrangements and performance style. The orchestra features a rotating cast of skilled musicians, with notable members such as vocalist Caroline Irwin, whose performances evoke the charm of 1920s singers like Annette Hanshaw, and reed player Steve Andrews, known for his engaging commentary and virtuoso playing. The ensemble's dedication to historical accuracy has made it a fixture at jazz and ragtime festivals, where it is celebrated for bringing the lively spirit of ragtime to contemporary audiences.

Through its performances and recordings, the New Century Ragtime Orchestra has played a significant role in preserving and promoting ragtime music in the UK and beyond. Their work not only entertains but also educates listeners about the roots of American popular music, ensuring that the legacy of ragtime endures for new generations.

Fun Facts

• The NCRO began as an eight-piece band but later expanded to eleven musicians to accommodate a wider range of early jazz and dance music.
• Caroline Irwin, the orchestra's vocalist, is noted for her authentic renditions in the style of Annette Hanshaw and also plays the ukulele during performances.
• The group’s repertoire includes over one hundred tunes, spanning ragtime, early jazz, and hot dance numbers.
• Steve Andrews, a reed player in the orchestra, is known for his entertaining and informative inter-tune commentaries during live shows.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Scott Joplin - Stylistic influence; the NCRO draws heavily from Joplin's compositions and the ragtime tradition he established. (Performances of classic rags such as 'Maple Leaf Rag') [1998–present]
• Annette Hanshaw - Vocal inspiration for Caroline Irwin, the orchestra's featured singer, who emulates Hanshaw's style. (Vocal renditions in the style of 1920s jazz and ragtime) [1998–present]

Key Collaborators

• Dave Kerr - Founder, arranger, and bandleader; central to the group's musical direction. (All NCRO performances and arrangements) [1998–present]
• Caroline Irwin - Lead vocalist and ukulele player, known for authentic period vocals. (Live performances, especially at jazz festivals) [1998–present]
• Steve Andrews - Reed player and commentator, contributing both musically and with inter-tune commentary. (Live performances) [1998–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Sun Flower Slow Drag (Hello Ma Baby)
2. A Rag-Time Skedaddle (Hello Ma Baby)
3. Hello! Ma Baby (Hello Ma Baby)
4. Belle of the Philippines (Singin' in the Bathtub)
5. Singin' in the Bathtub (Singin' in the Bathtub)
6. I'm Through with Love (Singin' in the Bathtub)
7. Whispering (Hello Ma Baby)
8. Elitle Syncopations (Hello Ma Baby)
9. Hiawatha (A Summer Idyl) (Hello Ma Baby)
10. Hot Aire (Hello Ma Baby)

External Links

• Spotify