Matt Tolentino

The Singapore Slingers is Matt Tolentino's flagship ensemble, and the group has been under his direction since late 2007. They have proven to be the only group of their kind in Dallas, even Texas, and they are a leading source for pre-swing American dance music. The Slingers boast 18 members, and they are completely authentic to the era- the arrangements, attire, and even many of the instruments, are period accurate. Their music is American popular song, 1895- 1935... there is simply nothing like it.

The Slingers are a true orchestra, complete with a 4-piece string section, 5-piece woodwind section, 3-piece brass section, and 5-piece rhythm section, featuring tuba and upright bass. Drums double on xylophone, vibes, and bells- more examples of period instruments... all the while the banjo helps propel the orchestra along. Their repertoire is immense - hundreds of tunes deep, featuring fox trots, waltzes, marches, one-steps, rags, tangos, and rhumbas. They even venture into the exotic- castle walks, the maxixe, and of course, the oriental fox trot (think Sheik of Araby). The orchestra's members range greatly in age, proving this music is truly timeless.
 
The selections performed by the orchestra are not a forgotten artifact or a museum piece, but a live, breathing testament to the great music of yesteryear. This is music that appeals to all generations, young and old alike. The orchestra takes great delight in performing for their audiences, and they hope to play for you sometime - at a dance, a concert, or perhaps your very own affair!