Led by trombonist and composer Sean Nelson, the New London Big Band is a 17-piece jazz orchestra made up of the finest musicians in New England. The band plays a mix of classic jazz standards, upbeat dance tunes, and original music by band members, and regularly features instrumental and vocal soloists. Formed in 2016, they play monthly to sold out crowds at the Social Bar + Kitchen in New London, where they attract professional and amateur dancers from near and far. The band’s 2018 calendar includes performances at Sailfest New London, the Manchester Bicentennial Band Shell, and the New Haven Museum concert series.

The band wants to show the world that big band jazz is a vibrant and joyful sound that is not just for “jazz aficionados.” The Day of New London calls them “a stellar outfit celebrating the greatness in exuberant fashion.” Thanks to their loyal fan base, the band won “Best Jazz Band” for CTNOW’s Best of Hartford. Plans for 2019 include recording an album of all original music written by band members.