Symposium Big Band

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.

This concert will be opened by the talented 2025 Christchurch Youth Jazz Orchestra, an auditioned secondary school big band under the direction of Lana Law.