Celebrating Great Composers for Big Band, from the Swing Era to the Cyber Age

The evolution of the big band, from dance engine in the Jazz Age to grand composers’ outlet in the 21^st century, is a journey through the development of American musical styles, from its roots in New York and Kansas City, to its full embrace of world music’s classical and popular styles. Jazz Ensemble I, directed by Peter Sommer, and Jazz Ensemble II, directed by Wil Swindler, celebrate the big band’s development through the decades with a presentation of music by its great composers, including Duke Ellington, Thad Jones, and Bob Brookmeyer, among other classic and modern day masters.