***Watch London Gay Big Band and vote for them this Saturday 31 May in the live semi finals! ITV 7pm***
As the only LGBT Big Band in the world, we are proud and privileged to showcase our unique style, music and energy to the entire nation. With Conchita winning this year's Eurovision song contest, the Zeitgeist is absolutely right for another LGBT and gender-stereotype breaking act to be showcased on national television and on digital platforms across the globe. We take our responsibility very seriously, proving that the gay scene is so much more than many of those pre-conceived stereotypes that are so often still prevalent amongst society. Our Band is about about making music. Creating a community spirit. Supporting each other. Breaking boundaries. And bringing something fresh, new and exciting to the LGBT scene and beyond. So if there's one thing you do this week - watch Britain's Got Talent, and make your vote count! Let's show our nation the true diversity, variety and spirit of the LGBT community.
Kate Coole (trumpet):
"I think this is a chance to show people that being gay is not just about clubbing. There's a whole lot more to LGBT life, and making music is just one example.
"It's been such a rollercoaster of a ride. We've played for large crowds before, but performing in a TV studio - with the cameras, the lights, the sets - is another thing altogether; an incredible experience. Very exciting!
"Thinking back to our audition at Hammersmith Apollo, among all those other acts auditioning, and now being one of the lucky ones to get through to the semi-final shows is just amazing."
Vince Walsh (trumpet):
"We're not in a competition, we're in an experience and loving it.
"How do I feel about trying to play in front of 10 million people? I'm not the one trying to dance in diamante-encrusted heels.
"Do I think we'll win? We've won just by being here. Millions of people get to hear what we do. That's why we play.
"People forget that Big Band and Jazz music are about fun and emotion. Well, we're here to remind you."
Stuart (sax): "If being on prime time TV gives a sign to our international LGBT brothers and sisters that things can be better, then we have done our job."It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing and we are swinging into those semi-finals with all the love we can give!
"I am so proud of what we have achieved as a band, and BGT lets the whole nation share it with us."
Watch their first performance on Britain's Got Talent here
by Stefan Doering, Manager and Co-Founder of the London Gay Big Band
