About Me
The Dave Dickey Big Band was formed in September of 2005. The band consists of 16 excellent professional instrumentalists, plus director Dave Dickey who is also featured with the band on trombone. Dave's band consists of the top jazz musicians from both East and Central Illinois, including members of the University of Illinois jazz faculty. Members of the band have performed and recorded with Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, Clark Terry, Maynard Ferguson, Arturo Sandoval, Horace Silver, Tito Puente, Ray Charles, Betty Carter, Michael Brecker, Branford Marsalis, Joe Lovano, Steely Dan, and many others. The Dave Dickey Big Band features music performed by big band greats such as Count Basie, Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, Buddy Rich, Thad Jones / Mel Lewis, Duke Ellington, and many others. The band also features original compositions written by members in the band and also by graduate students at the University of Illinois.
Testimonials about Dave Dickey Big Band
Bobby Shew, jazz trumpet legend
"Its great to be on this Midwest tour and get a chance to play with this unbelievable band. Wow! I don't get to play with bands of this caliber very often. Playing with this band really heals up a lot of wounds."
Paul G. Wirth, The Iron Post
"The Dave Dickey Big Band sounds like they're the top talent assembled in Central Illinois because they are. U of I Jazz Studies Professors mixed with top players make an incredible sound. As a club owner I love the band for filling the room. As a jazz fan, I love them because these folks can play!"
Larry Fredrickson, WDWS/WHMS Radio
"This is a high-powered band. An amalgamation of the best jazz musicians in East Central Illinois, tight ensemble playing, and solos that will take you places, the "Dave Dickey Big Band" showcases the finest in talent and contemporary big band jazz you're liable to find anywhere."
SPECIAL GUESTS
trumpet legend Bobby Shew
drummer Joel Spencer
drummer George Fludas
baritone sax Glenn Wilson
trumpet David Hoffman
trombonist Wayne Coniglio
vocalist Rachael Lee
