Listen on SpotifyFollow on Instagram
Mingus Big Band

Mingus Big Band

Mingus Legacy Lives

The Mingus Big Band continues the vibrant, complex, and passionate music of legendary bassist and composer Charles Mingus, performed by a world-class ensemble dedicated to preserving his innovative spirit.

Big Band JazzPost-BopAvant-Garde Jazz

About

Founded in 1991 by Sue Mingus, the Mingus Big Band is one of three ensembles dedicated to preserving and performing the extensive catalog of Charles Mingus. Comprising 14 musicians, the band draws from Mingus's rich and diverse compositions, maintaining his spirit of innovation, improvisation, and collective creation. They have toured globally and released numerous acclaimed albums, keeping Mingus's legacy alive for new generations.

Music Style

Their music is characterized by powerful, soulful, and often fiery big band arrangements, rooted in blues, gospel, and swing, yet pushing the boundaries with adventurous harmonies, collective improvisation, and dynamic shifts.

Background

Hometown
New York, New York, USA
Instruments
saxophone (alto), saxophone (tenor), saxophone (baritone), trumpet, trombone, piano, bass, drums
Active
1991-present

Similar Artists

If you like the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra, Duke Ellington Orchestra, or the music of Gil Evans — you'll love the Mingus Big Band

Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra
Both are composer-led big bands known for sophisticated arrangements, dynamic performances, and emphasis on improvisation within a structured framework.
80%
Duke Ellington Orchestra
Iconic big bands led by visionary composers, celebrated for their unique sound, strong individual voices within the ensemble, and diverse musical palette.
70%
Gil Evans Orchestra
Known for adventurous and often complex big band orchestrations, pushing the boundaries of jazz composition and arrangement.
60%
Loading reviews...

Past Events

Feb 1
Feb 1
Jan 31
Jan 31
Jan 30
Jan 30
Jan 29
Jan 29
Jan 28
Jan 28