Symposium Big Band

Ōtautahi Christchurch’s own Symposium Big Band returns to the spotlight at the Christchurch

Big Band Jazz Festival Gala, showcasing the power and sophistication of big band jazz.

Formed in 2007, Symposium brings together some of Aotearoa’s top jazz talent, under the

direction of Alex van den Broek. The band is known for championing bold, contemporary

works alongside big band classics, with past collaborations including jazz greats James

Morrison, Francesco Torres and Fantine Maria Pritoula.

For the 2025 Christchurch Big Band Jazz Festival Gala Concert, Symposium Big Band will

present an exciting programme spanning iconic Count Basie classics through to cutting-edge

works by leading contemporary arrangers and composers, and bringing together some of

New Zealand’s most accomplished and dynamic jazz musicians, including Cam Pearce

(trumpet), Jack Harre (Trumpet), Gwyn Reynolds (saxophone), Jimmy Rainey (saxophone),

Scott Taitoko (trombone), Tom Rainey (piano), Michael Story (bass), Joe McCallum (Drums),

Heather Webb (Guitar), led by conductor Alex van den Broek.

Featured soloists will include emerging young talents Will Kao (trombone), Monet Shutte

(saxophone/vocals), and Reiss Fantani (saxophone/vocals), with acclaimed vocalist Naomi

Ferguson leading the performance.

Audiences can expect a dynamic night of swinging classics, soulful ballads, and bold new

works — featuring virtuosic solos and a powerhouse ensemble.

This will be a Gala Concert of world-class jazz — vibrant, daring, and unmistakably

Christchurch.