Big Band Theory is celebrating 18 years. This is a group made up of talented middle and high school jazz musicians from across our local communities. 

Big Band Theory had their first performance in 2013. John Kessell and Randy Swift invited players to come together and just play at JP’s in Washington without rehearsal. On July 12 the 18th version of the band will be performing at the Washington Area Performing Arts and Events Center located in the Washington High School. 

This will be the third year that this performance will be the climax of the Kessell Jazz Camp. The camp invites area middle and high school students to come together and learn 3 jazz charts during the day. Clinicians run the camp which is made free to the students through the John Kessell Legacy Music Education Fund through the Washington Music Boosters. The middle school band and the high school band will perform their pieces prior to Big Band Theory.

There is no charge for this performance, a free-will offering will be collected at the door. The performance begins at 7 p.m.