Matt Tolentino
"The city's coolest, quirkiest retro jazz group!"
-The Dallas Observer, 2011
The Singapore Slingers
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 string section of 3 violins, viola, cello, and string bass. The drummer also doubles on vintage xylophone and bells- more examples of period instruments. The rhythm is driving, with tuba and banjo propelling the orchestra along. Their repertoire is immense, 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. 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!
Photo by Gary Busk

Photo by Gary Busk

Upcoming Shows:


Pocket Sandwich Theatre, 5400 E. Mockingbird Ln., Dallas, TX 75206
The Singapore Slingers return to this cozy little dinner theatre for another night of great music from the 1910s, 1920s, and 1930s. Bring the whole family or treat yourself to a night out. 
Food and beverage (beer and wine) service starts at 6:15 pm, showtime 7:30 pm. 
Perfect for all ages - admission is $18, and tickets can be purchased at www.PocketSandwich.com
 

Tuesday October 30th, 2018, 7:30 pm - Halloween Special!

Tuesday December 11th, 2018, 7:30 pm - Winter Revue

 

Celebrate the New Year with The Singapore Slingers!

The orchestra is back at The Kessler - you are cordially invited to take part in the most elegant, timeless New Years Eve celebration in Dallas. Dance the night away in your finest (or come as you are!), sip champagne, and ring in 2019 in style. It's a classic New Years Eve celebration even Guy Lombardo would love, and The Kessler is always a beautiful spot for the occasion. 

Mark your calendars - more info come soon. Watch www.TheKessler.org for ticket links

 
Check out what PeaJay Music Blog has to say about the Singapore Slingers (all site content copyright PeaJay Music Blog).

Check out what PeaJay Music Blog has to say about the Singapore Slingers (all site content copyright PeaJay Music Blog).

Check out the Singapore Slingers on Sound Cloud!
The Singapore Slingers' own David Lovrien is a real authority on the subject of early saxophone bands, including the Six Brown Brothers and the Columbia Saxophone Sextette. Check out his web page devoted to the saxophone bands of the 1910s and 1920s! Click on the record!
 
Check out Sunshine Radio Museum in Sodus, New York!
 
Sunshine Radio Museum is run by Ray Seppeler... his son Matt plays trumpet in the Singapore Slingers. Ray's website will take you to his shop, where is looking to sell a TON of great antique and vintage radio and phonograph related items for quite a deal. Lots of neat things to see!