Big Bandits – She –Female composers in Bigband Jazz

Big Bandits – She – Female Composers in Big Band Jazz

In their latest program, Big Bandits turn the spotlight on women who have shaped the sound of big band jazz as composers and arrangers. Jazz has long been viewed as a male-dominated world—but look a little closer and a richer picture emerges. In recent years, an ever-growing number of women have stepped forward, not only as outstanding instrumentalists, but also as creators of their own bands, compositions, and arrangements.

And this isn’t a new story. Women have been contributing as composers and arrangers since at least the 1950s—often alongside, but not limited, to the traditional role of vocalist.

For She, the Big Bandits have crafted a musical journey across eras and styles: from swing pioneers of the 1950s like Meredith Wilson, through the trailblazing big band leaders of the ’70s and ’80s such as Toshiko Akiyoshi, Carla Bley, and Maria Schneider, to the fresh voices of today, including Hendrika Entzian and Claudia Döffinger.

About the Band:

Led by Werner Hüsgen, the Big Bandits perform as a project-focussed ensemble, known for their fearless and innovative programming. Over the years, they’ve explored a wide range of styles—bringing to life the music of Jimi Hendrix, presenting an African jazz showcase, reimagining classic rock, collaborating with singer Sabine Kühlich for Jazzwalk, and most recently, fusing jazz with techno in their InFusion project. Today they are recognized as one of the most important and influential big bands in the region, with Hüsgen himself among Aachen’s most accomplished and active jazz musicians.

Artistic Director: Werner Hüsgen   Vocals: Julia Walbergs

https://www.bigbandits-jazz.de/she/

https://www.gzm-aachen.de/?p=6827