They have existed since the '60s and have progressed from strength to strength attaining success both domestically and internationally. The Oxford University Big Band are no ordinary jazz ensemble. Their unique repertoire and their professionalism has meant that they are both loved by people in Oxford, all over the UK and increasingly more globally.
About The Band
Otherwise known by its acronym OUBB, the Oxford University Big Band is the premier jazz ensemble of the Oxford University and it was formed in 1961. Their band is composed of four rhythm section players, five saxes, trumpets and trombones, with two vocalists - male and female, which totals to a a 21-piece big band. They play in a swathe of events within the university, and also in many private functions within UK, particularly in Oxford. The OUBB is also continually expanding its audience attracting clients from all over the world.
Although the name suggests that all of the members are students or alumni of Oxford University, this multi-talented bunch perform as professionals. The fact that they are based at one of the world’s most prestigious universities means that the notion of a student band becoming highly proficient artists becomes feasible.
History Of The Band
OUBB was originally the idea of the founders Peter Hartley and Bill Ashton MBE. They founded the said band in 1961, but few years later, the two founders left, the latter becoming the Musical Director of NJYO, or the National Youth Jazz Orchestra. They first tried their luck performing within Oxford, but later on began to perform within UK by joining inter-university jazz competitions.
After a long time in hiatus, Tanzil Rahman, Rhydian Griffiths and Tom Parsons decided to do some re-form in the band in 2005. Their comeback was a very timely one, because the University had long been wanting a top-flight jazz ensemble. OUBB rose to the top again very quickly, gaining invitations to perform to other countries a year after their re-reformation.
Band Activities
They also put up public concerts at least thrice a year within Oxford- they even collaborate with superstar jazz musicians within UK. For instance, in 2007 they collaborated with Oxford Millennium Orchestra and performed in Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford's most famous concert hall.
OUBB also started to seek broader horizons in other countries as well. Since the band's comeback in 2005, they have been to Barcelona, Spain in 2006, Delhi and Mumbai in 2007, travelled to Switzerland in 2008 to take part in the Montreux Jazz Festival, and in 2009, went to Holland for the North Sea Jazz Festival. OUBB also toured around China this year 2010. The group is hoping to visit more countries in the years to come.
As the band consists of energetic, young, dedicated and talented musicians, it is clear that they are determined to connect with other parts of the globe through the medium of music.
Author Resource:
Oliver is the author of this article on Jazz .
Oliver is the author of this article on Big Band .
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