We're Historic

The Des Moines Big Band was founded in 1959 and has been a driving force in the Iowa jazz scene (yes, there IS one!) ever since. Well known for hundreds of miles around, it has become a regular stop for touring artists such as Bobby Shew, Frank Perowsky, Dick Oatts, John Fedchock, Paul McKee, Richie Cole, John Mosca and Clark Terry to mention just a few. 

Our mission is to present cutting edge jazz without compromise. We regularly commission new compositions from nationally-recognized composers while still keeping the classics in the rotation. Our members are committed to high standards of performance, and we make sure that the band cooks!

We’re also committed to student musicians. We’ve worked hard to give student musicians a venue where they can hear high quality performances in a smoke-free, family-friendly atmosphere. We also invite high-school and college bands to share the stage with us most weeks.

We play because we love jazz and we're on a mission to keep it alive and vibrant. Please join us in celebrating a truly original American art form!

We're In The News

Well. there's certainly a buzz about Noce, Des Moines' newest Jazz Club, and the Des Moines Big Band. Read all about it!
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​Come enjoy the progressive sounds of one of America's longest running jazz orchestras, the Des Moines Big Band. Our concert season begins Wednesdays in September,  at Nocé, Des Moines' newest Jazz Club and Cabaret, located at 1326 Walnut St,  one block south of the Pappajohn Sculpture Park.

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We're On Your Calendar

Every Wednesday night
Starting 9/6/17,  until late May
​ GET TICKETS
Shows start at 7:00 

Upcoming Performances

September 6th - Opening Night at Noce! 

We're In the Neighborhood