bigbands play on your Event.

Big Bands – Swing, Jazz and great emotions for your Event

An event without the majestic sound of a Big Band? Imagine a concert, gala, or city festival – without the powerful sound of trumpets, saxophones, and trombones. No swing, no dance rhythms, no orchestral energy that thrills the audience. With a Big Band, you bring elegance, power, and the timeless groove of Jazz & Swing to the stage.

🎺 What is a Big Band?

A Big Band is a Jazz orchestra with 12–20 musicians that originated in the 1910s in the USA and became world-famous during the Swing Era of the 1930s and 1940s. This impressive musical formation represents one of the most dynamic and energetic expressions of American musical culture.

The stylistic origins draw from Jazz, Blues, American march music, classical elements, and the popular dances of the time, creating a rich tapestry of musical influences that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Derived musical forms include Swing, Progressive Jazz, Kansas-City Jazz, Easy Listening, Space Age Pop, and modern Lounge music, demonstrating the genre's incredible versatility and enduring influence on contemporary music.

Big Band lineup – which instruments belong to it?

A classic Big Band lineup consists of a carefully orchestrated ensemble that creates the signature sound through precise instrumental balance:

Rhythm section: Drums, bass, guitar, piano

Brass section: 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, 5 saxophones (2x alto, 2x tenor, 1x baritone)

Vocals: Female or male singer who brings the emotional centerpiece to the performance

👉 Variations always exist: The world-famous Glenn Miller Big Band used a clarinet as a distinctive style element that became their musical signature.

Which wind instruments play in a Big Band?

Alto, tenor, and baritone saxophones, trumpets, and trombones form the core brass foundation. These are often supplemented by clarinet or flute to add tonal variety and melodic sophistication to the overall sound.

The best artists for your event

Die Darmfloristen
Die Darmfloristen
The Boogyies
The Boogyies
The band was created as a combination of two generations. The older generation is here to put evergreen songs on the list, and the younger one to bring the fresh touch and creativity of new-age sound into it. This fusion of generations is removing dust and shines up old but everlasting songs. All of our members are active musicians and dedicated to every single tone. Behind us are successful gigs, satisfied clients and great recommendations. We own complete equipment that fits up to 1000 persons and we are ready in any time to perform indoor as well outdoor -company of personal celebrations , weddings, birthday parties, festivals etc. with up to 4 hours of playing. Our set list is filled with rock and pop song covers, and it is updated often.
Ritmo Jackson
Ritmo Jackson
Ritmo Jackson: DIE Salsaband aus München! Die energiegeladenen Auftritte des 16-köpfigen Ensembles schaffen bei einem breiten Publikum regelmäßig für ausgelassene Stimmung. Die Latin Vibes gehen dabei direkt ins Ohr und lassen niemanden still sitzen. Das Repertoire von Ritmo Jackson umfasst ein weites Spektrum von kubanischen Klassikern bis zu aktuellen kolumbianischen Charthits. Stilistisch wird von Salsa Dura bis Latin Jazz alles geboten. Aber immer (!) mit dem speziellen orchestralen Sound. Der scharfe Bläsersatz, die präzise Rhythmusgruppe (vier Percussionisten!) und speziell die ansteckende Energie der kolumbianischen Sänger machen die Musik von Ritmo Jackson unverwechselbar.
Choco Y Sus Cómplices
Choco Y Sus Cómplices
Gegründet wurde die Band 2016 von Eric Durrer, der als einer der besten Conga-Spieler Europas gilt. Die Musiker seiner Band gehören zu den herausragenden Stars der europäischen Latino-Szene. Die 18-köpfige Band orientiert sich an traditionellen Charanga-Orchestern (Violine, Cello und Flöte), fügt aber vier talentierte Sängerinnen und Sänger sowie eine ganze Bläsersektion und ein Schlagzeug hinzu und schafft so eine Band mit ungeahnten Klangerlebnissen. Eric, der wegen seiner früheren Band Eric y su Chocolate als "Choco" bekannt ist, ist selbst ein anerkannter Komponist, der in den letzten Jahren viele Musikproduktionen in Europa bereichert hat. Er gilt als einer der vielseitigsten Latin-Musiker, der mit seiner Musik eine faszinierende rhythmische und melodische Fusion aus Charanga, Salsa, Jazz, Funk, afrokubanischen und brasilianischen Musikstilen zaubert.
Tontechnik Heiko Müller
Tontechnik Heiko Müller
Als Tontechniker der sowohl deutschlandweit in Clubs und auf Festivals Bands betreut, als FOH-Tontechniker oder Monitor-Mischer arbeitet, als auch ein eigenes Tonstudio besitzt, bin ich der ideale Ansprechparner für Musiker jeglicher Genres. Bandcoaching, Marketing, Recording oder tontechnische Betruung eines Konzertes? Wendet euch an:Tontechnik Heiko Müller, Hussitenweg 12, 94469 DeggendorfTel.: 0151 50 737 006www.studio-wustrack.dehttps://www.facebook.com/TonstudioWustrack
Chris Wieschalla Orchestra
Chris Wieschalla Orchestra
Das Chris Wieschalla Orchestra ist eine 18-köpfige Big Band aus Durmersheim bei Karlsruhe, die den Swing der 30er- und 40er-Jahre auf die Bühne holt – kraftvoll, elegant und mitreißend. Mit Originalarrangements von Legenden wie Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Duke Ellington und Tommy Dorsey entfaltet die Band einen Sound, der sofort in die goldene Ära des Swing entführt. Virtuose Bläsersätze, pulsierende Rhythmen und eine unwiderstehliche Spielfreude lassen jeden Zuhörer mitswingen und mitklatschen.

Unforgettable moments with professional live music

An event without a band? Imagine being at a celebration – but there is no live music, no mood, no energy. No driving beat, no stirring voices, no spontaneous dance breaks. Without a live band every party feels empty and colorless.

Genres

Event types

Cast

Booking the perfect artist for your event in 3 easy steps

Planning an event has never been easier! With connactz, you can quickly connect with talented artists tailored to your needs. Just follow these simple steps to find and book the perfect musical act for your special day.
1
Share Your Event Details
Tell us about your event by providing key details such as the date, location, and your music preferences. Whether you're looking for a band, DJ, or solo artist, we'll match your needs.
2
Receive Tailored Offers
Our platform uses advanced AI to find 5-10 artists who perfectly fit your event. You'll receive detailed offers to compare at your convenience – completely free and without obligation.
3
Choose and Book Your Favorite
Review the offers, contact the artists directly for any clarifications, and book the one that suits your vision. It's that simple to bring your event to life with the perfect music!
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Why Big Band music is a highlight at events

Unmistakable Sound

The unmistakable sound fills rooms and gives goosebumps.

Diverse Repertoire

Repertoire: from jazz standards to modern Big Band songs.

Live Atmosphere

A Big Band show is impressive, energetic, and unforgettable.

Famous Big Bands & renowned bandleaders

Historically, Big Band names like:

Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller

Established in Germany:

Bert Kaempfert, James Last, Max Greger, Günter Noris, Hugo Strasser, Peter Herbolzheimer

Modern stars:

Michael Bublé Big Band, Robbie Williams Swing projects, Roger Cicero Big Band, Caro Emerald

Contemporary orchestras:

Jazzrausch Big Band, Monika Roscher Big Band, NDR Big Band, HR Big Band, SWR Big Band, WDR Big Band, DR Big Band, MSL Big Band, Bundeswehr Big Band

👉 Arrangers and bandleaders like Ack van Rooyen, Jiggs Whigham, Dizzy Gillespie also shaped the development.

The Swing Era of the 30s and 40s

The Swing Era was the golden age of Big Bands. Dances like Lindy Hop and Charleston made the typical Big Band sound popular. Musicians like Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, or Count Basie were celebrated worldwide – their songs are still classics today.

From classic to modern – Big Band music today

Big Bands showcase incredible versatility beyond traditional swing, encompassing Latin Jazz, Funk, sophisticated Pop arrangements, Easy Listening & modern Lounge music that appeals to contemporary audiences.

Notable Examples:

  • Dizzy Gillespie was a pioneering force in Latin Jazz development
  • Jazzrausch Big Band revolutionarily brings electro & club music to the grand concert stage
  • Modern Big Bands masterfully interpret film music and current Pop hits with orchestral sophistication

Further facets of Big Band music

Big Bands are versatile and emerge from the interplay of many elements. The repertoire includes swing classics, jazz standards, Latin jazz, and modern pieces. Typical are elaborate arrangements and compositions shaped by experienced arrangers and bandleaders like Peter Herbolzheimer, Ack van Rooyen, Jiggs Whigham, or Dizzy Gillespie.

Famous radio ensembles like the WDR Big Band, the NDR Big Band, the HR Big Band, or the SWR Big Band are considered leading jazz orchestras in Europe. They maintain the classic Big Band sound but also develop modern Big Band projects that combine jazz with funk, contemporary classical music, or club sounds.

This keeps the classic Big Band both tradition-preserving and innovative – a sound body between jazz orchestra, concert orchestra, and entertainment show.

Many of the famous Big Bands like the SWR Big Band, the WDR Big Band in NRW, the NDR Big Band, or the HR Big Band are also known as jazz orchestras and are considered international flagship ensembles. Some even work with choirs – like in projects for orchestra and choir.

Tradition includes intensive rehearsals to perfect the unmistakable sound. Especially in the Swing Era of the 30s and 40s, elaborately written arrangements were formative for bands like Glenn Miller or Duke Ellington. Later greats like Peter Herbolzheimer, Ack van Rooyen, Jiggs Whigham, and Dizzy Gillespie have driven the development toward the modern Big Band.

Tips for organizers

Space requirements: 17–20 musicians need stage & technology.

Program choice: Swing classics or modern arrangements.

Leadership & arrangement: Every Big Band is led by a bandleader or arranger who determines the sound.

Audience: Gala, jazz concert, or city festival → adapt the program!

How to book your perfect Big Band on connactz

  1. Choose style: Swing, Jazz, Modern, Latin.
  2. Compare profiles: Videos, repertoire, references.
  3. Book directly: uncomplicated via our platform.

For musicians – your Big Band profile

Do you lead an orchestra or are you part of a Big Band?

Use connactz to present your formation.

Tips for your profile:

  • Upload live recordings (sound is everything!).
  • Clearly describe repertoire (Jazz, Swing, Latin).
  • Include references from concerts or festivals.

FAQ about Big Bands

What belongs to a Big Band?
Wind instruments (sax, trumpet, trombone), rhythm section (piano, bass, guitar, drums) & often vocals.
What's the difference between Big Band and orchestra?
A Big Band is a jazz ensemble with brass instruments, an orchestra is classical with strings.
Which famous Big Bands are there in Germany?
WDR Big Band, NDR Big Band, HR Big Band, SWR Big Band, Jazzrausch, Bundeswehr Big Band, etc.
What is the Swing Era?
The 30s & 40s, when Big Band jazz was the pop music of the time.

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