The Mike Stewart Big Band is a big band from Adelaide that was established in 2006.
Biography[]
The group formed in 2006 as the brain child of the late Mike Stewart. The band began with a residency at the Kings Head, before moving to the Promethean on Grote st. They currently continue their "1st Thursday of the Month" residency at Norwood Live, under the direction of Lizzie Gregory and Tom Pulford. They have performed with the likes of Bob Mintzer, Jim Pugh, John Riley, Ray Vega, Ross Irwin and John Hoffman throughout their career.
The Mike Stewart Big Band recorded an album of original music, "Collectively Speaking", composed by leader Mike Stewart as well as Tom Pulford, Dave McEvoy, Mark Ferguson, Nick Mulder, and Adam Lutley. They have featured soloists such as Dave McEvoy, Matt Sheens, Chris Soole, Warren Heading, Tom Pulford, Tim Bowen, Adam Lutely, Nick Mulder and former drummer Ben Todd.
In a collaborative project with Adelaide Jazz vocalist Luke Thompson, The Mike Stewart Big Band presented "Backyard Swing", showcasing classic Australian songs with a Sinatra-style twist. This project has been well received at the Adelaide Fringe Festival and at Hoot, the Mt Barker Jazz Festival. It featured arrangements by Luke Thompson, Mike Stewart, Nick Mulder and Tom Pulford.
Discography[]
- Collectively Speaking - (2008)