Lafayette’s Big Swing Band is an 18 piece Big Band with vocalists that focuses on music of the Swing Era including notable artists such as: Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Benny Goodman, Glen Miller and many more. The band performs for concerts, weddings, corporate events, dances, parties, music festivals, street fairs, church and civic celebrations throughout central Indiana. 

 

The BSB began its journey in 1999 as a rehearsal group under the direction of drummer Paul Kenny. Shortly thereafter, the band progressed into a full-performing ensemble under Vocalist/Manager Gail Biss and Music Director Al Jones. After Al’s retirement as Music Director in 2018 and Gail’s retirement as manager in 2022, the band entered its third decade with local High School Band Director and trumpet player Steve Cotten assuming leadership. After Steve’s retirement in 2026, longtime bandmember Burt Etchison assumed the managerial role, while veteran Middle and High School band director Jim Hopkins became Musical Director. The Big Swing Band is committed to providing the Greater Lafayette Community with the best of Big Band entertainment.  Find us at www.bigswingbandlafayette.com or Follow us on Facebook @thebigswingbandlafayette or Instagram @bigswingband