Are there any big bands today?
Big bands are alive and well and still creating righteous jazz. A fine example of a contemporary big band is the Clayton-Hamilton Band, started by brothers John and Jeff Clayton, bassist and saxophonist respectively, and drummer Jeff Hamilton.
Did big bands improvise?
In contrast to the typical jazz emphasis on improvisation, big bands relied on written compositions and arrangements. They gave a greater role to bandleaders, arrangers, and sections of instruments rather than soloists.
Who was the best big band?
So without further ado, here’s our look at some of the best big bands and jazz orchestras ever, with a recommended recording for each one.
- Count Basie Orchestra.
- Benny Goodman.
- Dizzy Gillespie.
- Woody Herman and The Herd.
- Buddy Rich Big Band.
- The Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra.
- Gil Evans.
- The Maria Schneider Orchestra.
What were the big bands of the 40s?
Examples include Frank Sinatra (Harry James’ Band and Tommy Dorsey Orchestra), Doris Day (the Les Brown Band), Billie Holiday (Artie Shaw and the Gramercy Five and the Count Basie Band), Ella Fitzgerald (Chick Webb Orchestra), Helen Forrest (Harry James’ Band), Bob Eberly (Glenn Miller’s Orchestra), and Dick Haymes ( …
Which band was considered the greatest swing band of all time?
the Count Basie Orchestra
For many, the Count Basie Orchestra, with its vibrato-drenched, deeply swinging sound, is the quintessential big band in jazz.
Who were the big bands in the 50s?
Jazz at 100 Hour 35: Big Bands of the 1950s (1950 – 1957)
- Paul Gonzalvez with Duke Ellington at Newport 1956.
- Stan Kenton & his Orchestra.
- Halls of Brass.
- Count Basie and the New Testament Band.
- Li’l Darlin’.
- Duke Ellington at Newport 1956.
- Diminuendo In Blue And Crescendo In Blue.
- Gil Evans Orchestra.
