KW Big Band Theory

Big Band classics and contemporary jazz in Kitchener/Waterloo!

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This fantastic big band packs an irresistible whallop of musical entertainment — spirited, talented and fun!

Stephen Preece, KW Jazz Room

About the Band

The Big Band Theory had its genesis in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, without any clear idea where this project might end up. And… WOW! what an explosion of sound when seventeen of Kitchener-Waterloo’s (and beyond) most talented jazzers showed up for that first rehearsal in October 2011. BBT has now finished 11 seasons of music making with a deep repertoire of period music from the swing era (Benny Goodman and Count Basie), contemporary big band arrangements (LAs Big Phat Band), 70s horn bands (Earth, Wind and Fire, Tower of Power). With two albums under their belt (“Evidence”, featuring Don Thompson and “A Swinging Joy”, Christmas) the KW Big Band Theory is an exciting band to hear live. Come check it out, and be prepared to be blown away.

As Ken Hadley, lead alto player says: “This band will part your hair!”

With Rick Hutt and Ron Chilton behind the console and microphones, and with the support of the Waterloo Region Arts Fund, BBT is recording their third CD, in hopes of a release in early 2023. Stay tuned. This recording will feature all Canadian composers and arrangers. Here’s a video clip sneak preview.

For a 2020 testimonial, please read Testimonial Roberts Onsite 2020.

BBT played to a sell-out crowd at the Jazz Room, Waterloo, in the historic Heuther Hotel. How do 18 musicians and a conductor fit on that stage? Here’s a photo to show you how it’s done.

Live at the Jazz Room
November 18, 2022

Partners and Shoutouts:

Glen-Woodcock

In June, 2019, Glen Woodcock, Jazz FM 91.1 listed BBT’s recording “Evidence” as one of 14 albums keeping big band music alive. Read the article. Thank you Glen.

BBT has been pleased to work with Hep Cat Swing and the Hep Cat Hoppers, both reputable swing dance facilitators in the Waterloo Region who always augment the excitement of any swing dance.

Arts Fund circular logo 300DPI

Meet the Musical Director Meet the band

Musical Director: Jimmy “T-Bone” Edwards

 

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In September, 2021, as we pull through the Covid-19 Pandemic and reassemble, Jimmy Edwards has stepped forward to lead the band as musical director. Jimmy was no stranger to BBT having subbed in on many occassions with the trombone section. We have really come to appreciate his ear for musical balance, his deep knowledge of big band repertoire, his nuanced approach to musical direction and his encouraging and positive energy to take BBT to the next level. Once upon a time, he was the inaugural musical director of the Royal City Big Band and now we are thrilled to have him behind the baton as well as the occasional trombone solo to front the band.

We are grateful for the leadership of Robin Habermehl (2011-2018), Robin Jessome (2018) and Sam Meakin (2019) who lead us through 2 recordings receiving national plays and many successful collaborations with Canadian jazz icons Don Thompson, John MacLeod, and Michael Occhipinti.

Meet the band

Band Members

Getting this 17-member group together for rehearsals and concerts is not an easy task.


Saxophone

Gabriella Ellingham

alto, bari, clarinet, flute

Ken Foster

tenor saxophone

Ken Hadley

alto sax, flute and clarinet

Taylor Ellingham

Baritone sax

Tim Moher

tenor sax


Trumpet

Alan Ralston

trumpet

Martin Lacoste

trumpet

Paul Fedherau

trumpet

Randy Brown

lead trumpet


Trombone

Jim Edwards

musical director, trombone

Kathryn Scobie

trombone

Paul Ellingham

Bass trombone

Robin Jessome

trombone

Sam Meakin

trombone

Steve Hagedorn

trombone


Rhythm Section

Andy Macpherson

Drums

Greg Prior

Bass

Jeff Daniels

Piano

Ralf Buschmeyer

guitar


Friends of the band

Andriy Tykhonov

Piano, keyboard

Bob Phillips

trombone

Bruce Gordon

Composer & arranger

Caleb Khuu

guitar

Chris Alcantara

Trumpet

Dan Brennan

bass

Darrell Kuwabara

guitar

David Cheon

guitar

Dennis Rondeau

bass

Derek Hines

vocalist

Don Thompson

vibes, writer and arranger

Doug Stinson

trumpet

Eric Probst

bass trombone

Greg Dozois

trumpet

Hepcat Swing

Dancers and Instructors

Jacob Durst

saxophone

John MacLeod

guest trumpet, arranger and writer

Joni NehRita

vocalist

Keith Bilinsky

trombone

Kevin Kalbfleisch

trumpet

Lukas Bouda

guitar

Mary-Catherine Pizzano

Matt Koebel

piano

Michael Occhipinti

guitar, composer, arranger

Randy Lyght

vocalist

Rebecca Binnendyk

vocalist

Rob Gellner

Robin Habermehl

Conductor, soprano, alto & tenor sax, vocals

Ron Schirm

Trombone

Ryan Cassidy

Tenor sax

Shawn Robson

trumpet

Stephen Zurakowsky

Guitar

Steve McDade

trumpet

Tim Louis

vocalist, piano

Tyler Wagler

guitar

Urmas Soomet

bass

Photos

Upcoming Shows

2024

Dec 7, 8:00

A Big Band Christmas

The Registry Theatre  122 Frederick Street, Kitchener  

An annual Winter Tradition, join Big Band Theory and guests for our annual fundraising seasonal concert. Details to follow.

Dec 8, 3:00 matinee

A Big Band Christmas Matinee

The Registry Theatre  122 Frederick Street, Kitchener  

BBT with special guests presents their popular, annual fundraising concert held on a Sunday afternoon.

2025

Jan 12, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

BBT Road Trip to Hamilton

cost: 18
Corktown Pub  175 Young Street, Hamilton  

Who wants to come with us?

Doors open at 3:00.

Mar 14, 8:00 PM

BBT returns to the Jazz Room

How do 18 musicians fit onto the stage at The Jazz Room? Come and find out!

May 24, 3:00 PM

BADDEST BIG BAND, London ON

cost: 40
The Registry Theatre  122 Frederick Street, Kitchener  

Baddest Big Band is a collection of some of the best jazz musicians from the London, Ontario area. Under the direction of Seth McNall, BBB will be presenting a unique presentation of classical music with Big Band Treatment.

May 25, 3:00 PM

BIG BAND WEEKEND at The Registry Theatre

cost: 40
The Registry Theatre  122 Frederick Street, Kitchener  

BBT is excited to be part of the (hopefully) annual Big Band Weekend, hosted by The Registry Theatre.

 

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