Charlie Parker had a rare chance to play with a big band during this Washington D.C. concert. Appearing without any rehearsal or even with music in front of him, Bird performed eight numbers with the orchestra, anticipating where the arrangements would go and not missing a cue. His brilliant playing on this out-of-print LP demonstrates to all listeners why he was considered one of the giants of jazz. The recommended set concludes with Red Rodney in the early '80s reminiscing a bit about his time with Charlie Parker.