Oxford welcomes the ETH/UZH Big Band to one of its most renowned concert halls, celebrated for its outstanding acoustics. In response to this exceptional setting, the ETH/UZH Big Band will showcase works by composers and arrangers known for their orchestral and symphonic big band writing, including Bill Holman, Bob Curnow, and Bill Laurance. A particular highlight of the evening will be music by Austrian trumpeter and bandleader Horst-Michael Schaffer. In May of this year, Schaffer held an exclusive workshop with the ETH/UZH Big Band, working closely with the ensemble to develop some of his latest ingenious and multifaceted compositions. This is where stories are told and history is written.

Join an orchestral big band evening featuring a joyful, compact ensemble, outstanding soloists, and a rich, expressive sound. As ambassadors of ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich, aiming to represent their institutions and foster cultural exchange through music. Come along and be inspired.

“Charming, lovingly chaotic, sometimes powerful, colorful, talented” is a fitting description of the ETH/UZH Big Band. For more than 30 years, the ensemble has served as an ambassador for ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich, performing at a high musical level and touring in numerous countries. After international travel came to a standstill during the coronavirus crisis, the ETH/UZH Big Band is now embarking on its first tour since the pandemic. Ben Hale – an outstanding trumpeter from the UK and a regular member of the band for several years – has entitled the group to the the UK for the very first time. They bring with them a beautiful and diverse repertoire, with each concert thoughtfully adapted to suit the atmosphere of the venue. Experience Switzerland’s leading university big band, with musicians from five nations, under the long-time direction of Christoph Eck. We look forward to seeing you!

Founded in 1993 as the ETH Big Band at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) Zurich, the ensemble later welcomed University of Zurich (UZH) as a sponsor, leading to the current name, ETH/UZH Big Band. The musicians are primarily students and alumni of the two Zurich universities, as well as of the jazz schools in Zurich and Lucerne.

More information on the band: www.ethbigband.ch

Full Tour Dates:
11 June, Oxford
12 June, Cambridge
13 June, Bristol
14 June, London

£5 – £15