Formed around the turn of the century by double bassist Steve Purcell as a Count Basie-style dance band, The Pearly Shells Swing Orchestra has evolved over more than 20 years to become a unique Melbourne musical institution with an enormous repertoire of original charts and ties throughout Melbourne's musical universe. The Pearly Shells mix their own arrangements of 40s and 50s big band music with Jump Blues, Swing Jazz, RnB, Boogie Woogie and Latin styles and play it all with the drive and enthusiasm the music demands and deserves. Expect music by Ellington, Basie, Goodman, Ray Charles, Louie Jordan, Billy Holiday, Ella Johnson, Xavier Cugat as well as Pearly's songs from their seven studio albums. “Bassist-vocalist Steve Purcell and his band make invigorating, witty and swingin’ music!" Ken Williams, The Age Morning Melodies is the feel-good music series held on the second Tuesday of each month. Tickets include a delicious morning tea.