Northwestern University Jazz Orchestra

Thursday, December 4, 2025 at 7:30pm CST

Galvin Recital Hall

Derrick Gardner, conductor

John Birks "Dizzy" Gillespie began his career performing in swing bands, which acted as the training ground or “university” for young musicians to master the complexities of jazz. During these early years, he swiftly became a key figure in the development of bebop, and his collaborations with Charlie Parker produced groundbreaking and iconic recordings establishing the style as a modern and innovative method of composition and improvisation within the jazz genre. In 1946, Gillespie founded his own big band with the goal of encapsulating the energy and innovation of bebop in a larger ensemble format. This band included arrangements by Gillespie himself, along with contributions from Gil Fuller, Tadd Dameron, Benny Golson, Slide Hampton, Quincy Jones, Ernie Wilkins, and many others. Prominent soloists featured in this ensemble included John Lewis, Milt Jackson, Kenny Clarke, and Ray Brown, who later formed the Modern Jazz Quartet. This concert showcases music from the Dizzy Gillespie Big Band as well as compositions from the “alumni” of the “University of Dizzy Gillespie.” 

Tickets are $8 for the general public and $5 for students with valid ID.