The Spanner Big Band started out in 2006, mixing classic swing with a number of different genres including, Balkan, free jazz and experimental electronic… The first line up included the traditional 16-piece big band line-up but also included violin, voice, 2 bass guitars and moog synthesizer.
The Spanner Big Band are still a little out of the ordinary, they are a big band who refine their playing through a weekly residency rather than what seems to be the case with most big bands these days working in closed rehearsals, giving the music a ‘live’ spirit.
But that is not all that sets them apart from the rest. The band is infused with the infectious personality of leader Dan Spanner, who brings humour, surreal observation and audience participation to the big band genre. The music they play is exciting, lively and relevant while Dan Spanner is akin to a psychedelic Jools Holland character, with boundless energy and enthusiasm. Expect the unexpected.
Comprising of 16 professional, semi-professional and top quality amateur musicians, the band members are loyal and dedicated and enjoy the freshness and originality of Dan Spanner’s approach.
