The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) has taken over management of the BBC Big Band – widely regarded as the UK’s leading Big Band – and is launching the first BBC Big Band Series at London’s Cadogan Hall in March next year.

The BBC Big Band is a versatile group of outstanding quality and makes a very welcome addition to the RPO and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra familyIan Maclay, RPO

Outstanding quality

Ian Maclay, Managing Director of the RPO and Artistic Director of Cadogan Hall, said: "The BBC Big Band is a versatile group of outstanding quality and makes a very welcome addition to the RPO and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra family."

He added: "Cadogan Hall is developing a strong audience for Big Band music and we feel that having the BBC Big Band on board will establish the Hall as an important new focus for jazz and swing music in London."