What Makes a True Gatsby Jazz Band?

1. The Music Must Be from the Era

A true Gatsby jazz band performs music written and popular during the 1920s and early 1930s. This includes hot jazz, early swing and dance band music — not modern pop songs with a jazz rhythm added.

Authentic Gatsby jazz draws from artists such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and the great hotel orchestras of the Jazz Age.

2. Authentic Arrangements Matter

Tempo, instrumentation and feel are crucial. Gatsby-era jazz has a very specific rhythmic approach that differs from modern jazz or swing revival styles.

Without this understanding, the music can sound anachronistic — even if the musicians are excellent.

3. Presentation Without Pastiche

A true Gatsby jazz band presents itself with elegance and restraint. Period-appropriate style enhances the performance, but the focus remains on the music rather than costume.

4. Musical Authority & Scholarship

Authenticity comes from deep knowledge. Bands led by musicians who have studied, performed and researched early jazz bring a credibility that audiences can hear immediately.

5. Why Authentic Gatsby Jazz Matters

Authentic jazz creates atmosphere without novelty. It elevates events, enhances luxury settings and offers guests something rare: a genuine connection to the golden age of jazz.

The Greg Poppleton Band specialises in historically informed jazz from the 1920s–30s. Greg Poppleton is Australia's only authentic 1920s - 1930s swing jazz singer.