Christchurch Big Band Festival

What is the Christchurch Big Band Festival?

The Christchurch Big Band Festival is a five day music festival held every Labour weekend in Christchurch.
It brings fresh musical vibrancy to the streets and venues of ?tautahi in spring, attracting thousands of listeners to exciting toe-tapping entertainment all around the city.
Running since 2006, the CBBF is run by the community for the community and is the only Big Band Festival in New Zealand.
Accessibility is a kaupapa of the festival with mostly free performances. There is often more than one event happening at a time.
Bands from all over New Zealand gather in Christchurch to play Big Band style jazz and will do so for many years to come.

What is a Big Band?

Big Band music can be anything from traditional 1920’s jazz of Louis Armstrong through swing era music of Glen Miller to modern pop and funk.
The Big Band sound is vibrant and exciting, or mellow and relaxing – enjoyed by the swing dance community, or for just sitting back and listening to.
A Big Band usually features four trumpets, four trombones, five saxophones, and a rhythm section playing piano, guitar, bass and drums and often a vocalist.

Who will enjoy the performances?

Everyone! Suitable and accessible for ages 0 – 100 years old.

Where do the bands perform?

The public will find bands performing for free in the CBD over Labour weekend lunchtimes, on the tram, parading in Victoria Square, at a special church service, at a late night jam session at A Rolling Stone and of course in the Botanic Gardens. There are also ticketed performances at various venues inclduing Fat Eddie’s, The Piano and 12 Bar. Just find your way into the CBD and follow the music! Check out the website or facebook page for more information