Depot Town Big Band
Ypsilanti, Michigan · Since 2011
Depot Town Big Band
Celebrating the Swing Era — Past and Present
Bringing swing, jazz and the Great American Songbook to Southeast Michigan.
Our Musical DNA
Vintage Vibes to Modern Moods
We're a straight-ahead big band with a deep respect for the legends who shaped jazz — the timeless swing of Count Basie, the elegance of Glenn Miller, the fire of Maynard Ferguson and the innovation of Thad Jones. You'll also hear modern masters like Tom Kubis, Gordon Goodwin and even Koji Kondo, because great music transcends genre.
Vocals are a vital part of our sets, bringing life to classics from the Great American Songbook — Rodgers and Hammerstein, the Gershwins, Ella Fitzgerald and more — all delivered with the same care and energy we bring to every chart.
Flexible for your needs
Three Sizes, One Sound
We tailor our sound and setup to your venue, audience and budget. Planning an elegant gala or a lively outdoor concert? We'll craft a setlist that fits your style and brings the swing.
19
Full Big Band
The complete sound — five saxes, four trumpets, four trombones, rhythm section and vocals.
11
Medium Band
Big band punch for mid-size rooms, receptions and private parties.
9
Small Band
Swing and standards for intimate spaces and tighter budgets.
Why a big band?
Elevate Your Event with Big Band Energy
Add Class
The timeless style of a big band brings elegance to any setting — from black-tie galas to outdoor receptions.
Stand Out
Live music creates excitement that DJs and playlists simply can't match. Your guests will feel the difference.
Touch History
Hear the golden age of jazz as it was meant to be heard: live, vibrant and full of swing.
What We Do
Entertainment and Education
Depot Town Big Band exists to celebrate and share the joy of big band jazz — through performance, collaboration and community connection. We perform at:
- Weddings and private celebrations
- Fundraisers
- Business and corporate functions
- Community festivals and civic events
- Senior centers and veterans' organizations
- Collaborative concerts with choirs, college bands and fellow big bands
More than just performance
A Nonprofit with Community Heart
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, our mission goes beyond entertainment. We preserve and promote big band music and history through live performance, and we're exploring partnerships with libraries, museums and schools to expand our educational outreach.
We're always looking for substitute players in every section, volunteers and donors.