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Mingus Big Band

Mingus Big Band is a jazz ensemble dedicated to preserving and invigorating the musical legacy of the legendary bassist, composer, and bandleader Charles Mingus (1922-1979). Formed after Mingus's death, the band has been a platform for both celebration and innovation of his expansive repertoire, showcasing the compositional genius that made Mingus a central figure in 20th-century American music. Aligning with his forward-thinking spirit, the ensemble is not a mere tribute act but a dynamic entity that interprets his works with contemporary verve, demonstrating the timelessness of Mingus's contributions to jazz.

Helmed by Sue Mingus, Charles Mingus's widow, the ensemble has featured a rotating cast of talented jazz musicians who manage to capture the original fervor and spontaneity Mingus's music demands. Their performances often occur at the Jazz Standard in New York City, though they tour internationally, bringing the raucous, soulful, and complex compositions of Mingus to new audiences and generations. One of their hallmark releases, "Mingus Big Band Live at Jazz Standard," won a Grammy in 2011 for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album, a testament to their excellence and dedication to the craft. The Mingus Big Band has successfully kept the spirit of Charles Mingus alive through their passionate live performances and critically acclaimed recordings, ensuring the maestro's work continues to resonate and inspire within the evolving landscape of jazz.

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