Bennetts Lane Big Band

In the spirit of the New York jazz clubs, the Bennetts Lane BIG Band was conceived in 2001, as a vehicle to progress and present an all-Australian, all-original contemporary jazz artform for an extended improvising ensemble. Nick Haywood is a founding member and co-leader of this ensemble, which features performances of compositions by Haywood and others. The diverse selection of Melbourne's most renowned improvisers and composers, combine to create an eclectic mix of genres and sounds; from the traditional/post-bop to the free/avante guarde. While avoiding direct categorisation, audiences of the Bennetts Lane BIG Band can be assured a cutting edge experience, where the musicians are perpetually taking risks aspiring toward a new ensemble aesthetic of improvised jazz music.