Mingus Big Band

Mingus Big Band performs exclusively the music of composer/bassist Charles Mingus. Combining the strengths of Mingus Dynasty septet Sue Mingus formed after Mingus’ death in 1979, and the Epitaph orchestra in 1989, in 1991 she created this 14-piece band to feature new arrangements of Mingus compositions in a larger band format Mingus was not often able to organize in his lifetime. The dynamic structure encourages deep explorations and ever-evolving ideations of Mingus Music and provides a platform for individual artistic expression. Drawing from a rotation of the best established and rising musicians, Mingus Big Band is highly sought-after by festivals and prestigious venues around the world. The band has 12 recordings, 7 nominated for Grammys, and one win in 2011 with Live at Jazz Standard. A new album, The Charles Mingus Centennial Sessions, was released in October 2022 and nominated for a Grammy. Volume 2 was released Aug 9 on Candid Records, historic home of Nat Hentoff/Mingus collaborations under wonderful new leadership. The band has become a New York institution, with a weekly residency now in its fourth decade. From Fez to Joe’s Pub to Birdland to Iridium, and flourishing for 12 years at Jazz Standard. Since 2023 Mingus Big Band performs every Wednesday at DROM at 85 Avenue A near Tompkins Square Park.