University of Portsmouth Big Band

The University of Portsmouth Big Band plays a wide range of music, anything from jazz standards through to soul, funk, samba, cheese and just about everything in between. When in full swing, this 28 piece big band showcases the talent of its saxophone, trombone, trumpet and rhythm sections as well as calling on the excellent vocal talents of our singers.

The band is in constant demand for events in Portsmouth and the surrounding area and regularly plays at Student Union events such as the Pharmacy Ball, Graduation Ball and smaller departmental graduation parties. Other performances include concerts at the New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth and gigs at local pubs including the Registry and the Fat Fox. The band also regularly plays at local community and charity events and is available for hire for parties, weddings and other events.

We are composed mainly of students and a few alumni. The musical director of the band is elected annually. The band has been running since 1990 and has always had an independent and very social character.