Mingus Big Band

Mingus Big Band Overview

Mingus Big Band performs exclusively the music of composer/bassist Charles Mingus who celebrated his Centennial year in 2022.

Formation and Purpose

Building off the strengths of Mingus Dynasty septet Sue Mingus formed after Mingus death in 1979, and 1989's Epitaph orchestra, in 1991 she created this 14-piece band to feature new arrangements of Mingus compositions in a larger band format that Mingus wanted, but was not always 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.

Musicians and Performances

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.

Recordings and Awards

• The band has twelve recordings to its credit, seven 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.
• The second volume will be released in 2024.