ETH/UZH Big BandUK Concert Tour 2025
After international travel came to a standstill during the coronavirus crisis, the ETH/UZH Big Band is now embarking on its first tour since the pandemic. Ben Hale – an outstanding trumpeter from the UK and a regular member of the band for several years – has entitled the group to the the UK for the very first time. They bring with them a beautiful and diverse repertoire, with each concert thoughtfully adapted to suit the atmosphere of the venue.
Experience Switzerland’s leading university big band, with musicians from five nations, under the long-time direction of Christoph Eck. We look forward to seeing you!
11 June • Oxford

- Location: Jacqueline du Pré Music Building, St. Hilda’s College
- Time: 11.06.25, 19:30
- Tickets: www.ticketsoxford.com/events/eth-uzh-big-band-zurich
Oxford welcomes the ETH/UZH Big Band to one of its most renowned concert halls, celebrated for its outstanding acoustics. In response to this exceptional setting, the ETH/UZH Big Band will showcase works by composers and arrangers known for their orchestral and symphonic big band writing, including Bill Holman, Bob Curnow, and Bill Laurance. A particular highlight of the evening will be music by Austrian trumpeter and bandleader Horst-Michael Schaffer. In May of this year, Schaffer held an exclusive workshop with the ETH/UZH Big Band, working closely with the ensemble to develop some of his latest ingenious and multifaceted compositions. This is where stories are told and history is written.
Join us for an orchestral big band evening featuring a joyful, compact ensemble, outstanding soloists, and a rich, expressive sound. As ambassadors of ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich, we aim to represent our institutions and foster cultural exchange through music.
12 June • Cambridge

- Location: Downing Place URC
- Time: 12.06.25, 19:00
- Tickets: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/celebrating-international-friendship-ethuzh-big-band-zurich-in-concert-tickets-1335076432549 (free admission, collecting voluntary donation)
University of Cambridge, ETH Zurich, and Zurich University have been connected to each other for many years in scientific, educational and personal networks. This existing long-lasting friendship will be celebrated during the evening concert in Cambridge at Downing Place URC with a free concert offered to students and employees at University of Cambridge. The musical program includes latin and samba grooves as well as orchestral work such as “Trancefactor” and “Praslin” written by the Austrian composer and band leader Horst-Michael Schaffer, who held an exclusive workshop with the ETH/UZH Big Band to develop some of his latest ingenious and multifaceted compositions. The ensemble will also give the opportunity to outstanding soloists to present their creativity, skills, and expression to inspire the audience. We are very much looking forward seeing you in Cambridge!
13 June • Bristol with The Bristol Hornstars

- Location: St George’s
- Time: 13.06.25, 19:30
- Tickets: www.stgeorgesbristol.co.uk/whats-on/eth-big-band-zurich-the-bristol-hornstars/
University of Bristol proudly presents a night to remember as the ETH/UZH Big Band joins forces with The Bristol Hornstars for a shared concert evening at St George’s Concert Hall—one of Bristol’s finest performance spaces. Prepare to be swept away by everything from sizzling Latin grooves and deep‑funk rhythms, to laid‑back ballads and driving swing, all delivered with infectious energy that will have you dancing, relaxing and partying under one roof.
Backed by a hard‑driving rhythm section, a brilliant trumpet ensemble, tight reeds and razor‑sharp trombones, the ETH/UZH Big Band will transport you straight into the heart of the music. Expect to hear highlights like La Fiesta, the soaring melodies of Plum Island, the hard grooves of Birdland and Bet, plus plenty of opportunities to samba along to Samba Dees and Cayenne.
Don’t miss this very special evening of fun, energy and top‑class big band performances—we can’t wait to welcome you!
14 June • South London with South London Jazz Orchestra

- Location: The Fellowship Inn
- Time: 14.06.25, 19:30
- Tickets: Tickets on the door — £15 general admission, £10 concession (students, under 18’s)
The ETH/UZH Big Band is excited to perform in London for the first time, partnering up with the South London Jazz Orchestra for a night of vibrant big band music at The Fellowship Inn. Set in the venue’s intimate upstairs hall, this promises to be a lively and engaging evening.
The program features a broad mix of styles, from swinging classics to ambient jazz, Latin grooves, and funk-infused contemporary pieces—showcasing the full range and energy of both ensembles.
Don’t miss this special collaboration between two dynamic big bands, bringing together precision, power, and definitely some fun.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of live jazz at The Fellowship Inn.