In the Fall of 2001, Bill Stangler got his hands on band arrangements from the 30's and 40's. He decided to dust them off, and get them in the hands of some people who appreciate music from that era. Bill, Bernie McGuire and Don Freid made a few calls, and rounded up about a dozen musicians interested in playing the old charts.  The name Echos signifies music that echoes from years gone by.
That original group has grown to over 20 musicians. They vary  in age, musical experience and background, but all share a love of the Big Band and Swing sound. They practice once a week, and perform at public and private performances about once a month. The Echos Big Band is based in Southern Minnesota with members from Saint Peter, Mankato, Montgomery, Easton and as far away as the Twin Cities!