HE was at the forefront of last year’s celebrations to mark what would have been the 100th birthday of the world’s most celebrated crooner.

Now one of the UK’s top big band singers, Matt Ford, is bringing the iconic sounds of Frank Sinatra to Poole.

And those Ol’ Blue Eyes’ classics will be getting the full orchestral treatment on Friday at Lighthouse, Poole with the London Concert Orchestra and special guests Emma Kershaw and The Swing Time Jivers. Celebrate Sinatra is a special tribute to the legendary entertainer and will include classic hits Sinatra made his own such as Mack The Knife, Moon River, The Lady Is A Tramp, Come Fly With Me, Night And Day, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, Fly Me To The Moon and of course, My Way.

Matt Ford is best is best known for his appearances with the John Wilson Orchestra at the Proms in Albert Hall.

He was also invited to join the cast of Singing In The Rain for the first ever concert performance of the original film score.

Frank Sinatra, arguably one of the best loved singers, had his initial breakthrough with the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, then, as the Big Band era wound down he embarked on a solo career.

His phrasing and interpretation were unrivalled, turning lyrics into something personal and meaningful to the listener.

Over the decades ‘The Voice’ as he was known, established a huge fan base recognised through record sales and live performances alongside a successful acting career of over 40 movies.

To book tickets for Celebrate Sinatra on Friday, March 17, call the lighthouse on 01202 280000.