Mike Westbrook Concert Band

Mike Westbrook Concert Band is a pioneering British jazz ensemble led by the renowned pianist and composer Mike Westbrook. Emerging in the late 1960s, the Concert Band became a significant force in the development of British avant-garde jazz, known for its ambitious, large-scale orchestrated jazz compositions. Westbrook formed the band after establishing himself in the early 1960s, and it was during this period, especially between 1967 and 1969, that the band released seminal big-band records such as *Celebration*, *Release*, and the landmark two-LP *Marching Song*—a powerful musical statement on the tragedy and futility of war.

The band's music often blends jazz with elements of classical, theater, and political commentary, creating complex and emotive soundscapes. Over the decades, Westbrook's Concert Band and related ensembles have continued to evolve, incorporating a wide range of influences and collaborating with notable musicians. Mike Westbrook himself is celebrated for his prolific output and innovative approach, having led various groups including the Solid Gold Cadillac jazz-rock band and the Mike Westbrook Orchestra, and has toured internationally while leaving a lasting impact on European jazz.