Liceu Big Band

The Liceu Big Band celebrates 15 years of performances, having become a jazz reference in Barcelona.

This project started in 2010 and has established itself as one of the few stable big band formations in the country, offering its members a fully professional experience. It is led by Sergi Vergés, professor and head of the Jazz and Modern Music Department at the Liceu Conservatory, and one of the most renowned big band arrangers in the country. The band has become a key player in Barcelona’s jazz scene.

Throughout the years, the Liceu Big Band has renewed its members to give as many students as possible the opportunity to take part—nearly 200 students have participated to date—while always maintaining its educational and artistic mission. The repertoire has also evolved, always including works written or arranged by top jazz experts, and the band has had the privilege of being conducted by guest masters like Bob Pilkington, Joan Reinders, Jere Laukkanen, Amikam Kimelman, and the great Maria Schneider.

This year, to celebrate its 15th anniversary, the band brings back key pieces from its usual repertoire, including arrangements by jazz legends like Thad Jones, Toshiko Akiyoshi, Bob Brookmeyer, and Ed Neumeister.

The line-up includes Juan Salamero and Alejandro Vallina on alto saxophones, Roque García and Pere Sancho on tenor saxophones, and Mar Andino on baritone sax. The trumpet section features John Guerrero, Elsa Armengou, Nico Andino, Adam Fons, and Bernat Ramírez. On trombone: Gil Boleda, Perot Rigau, Jan Martínez, and Ramon Berjaga on bass trombone. The rhythm section is rounded out by Cesc Castaño on guitar, Julián Mujica on piano, Martín Gros on double bass, and Nil Casals on drums.