JZ Big Band came together in Shanghai in 2005 as an ensemble designed to delight the ear with that famous horn-driven big band sound. Today, with zealous Swedish conductor Mats Holmquist at the helm, Big Band is honing a special sound with some solid talent. Since he joined JZ in November, Holmquist has scoured Shanghai and beyond (members are from the U.S., Australia and China) to find musicians that truly stand out.

Holmquist is excited about the opportunity. “This job is unique. I wouldn’t be able to have this dedicated big band position anywhere else. Not even somewhere like New York.” The challenge, he says, is developing the big band culture and tradition here in Shanghai. Holmquist hopes to do so with “a mixed repertoire of traditional, modern and original arrangements―all performed at the highest level.”

To get it right night after night, a lot of musicians have to be involved in a lot of rehearsals. Guitarist Lawrence Ku appreciates the difficulty of leading such a diverse group: “Mats has so much experience leading big bands. This is what he does. He knows how to get everyone to put egos aside and do what’s best for the band.” Ku should know. He’s played with trios and septets that have performed from Boston to Helsinki.

There may be touring down the line and possibly studio time, but live on stage is where it’s at for foot-tapping music that hits you in the chest. “It’s that big band sound,” gushes Ku. “Eighteen people. Huge sound. There’s nothing else like it.”

DETAILS

What: JZ Big Band

Where: JZ Club

When: Every Monday, Feb. 6-27 | 9pm

Tel: 6431-0269

Web: www.jzclub.cn