The Birdland Big Band at Birdland Jazz Club

Happy hour on Friday is for unwinding, leaving the work week's burdens behind and—if you're lucky, and in the New York City area—catching The Birdland Big Band. That ensemble has long been holding court at its namesake club in a liminal space between afternoon and evening, filling the gap between life's structured nine-to-five commitments and the weekend's reprieve. Its music, mirroring both sides of that reality, walks a line between tight team work and personal freedom, allowing and encouraging ace soloists to step outside or atop well-polished arrangements while pursuing and promoting jazz's real message in the process. 

On Friday, January 23, 2026, this writer had the pleasure of bringing more than two dozen young people—teenagers, most being members of their school jazz band— to witness the beauty of bandstand democracy in action.  Under the direction of saxophonist David DeJesus, The Birdland Big Band delivered its own brand of magic for the capacity audience.  Whether nodding to its home base with "Lullaby of Birdland," tackling music associated with Woody Herman's herd(s), showcasing original vision from trombonist Mark Miller, or visiting the music of Michael Brecker, the ensemble and the individualists in the ranks had plenty to say.

Solos spread far and wide across the band, with virtually everyone stepping into the spotlight at one time or another.  Listeners heard from veteran icons, such as trumpeter Glenn Drewes and pianist Kenny Ascher; band long-timers from a later generation, like trumpeter John Walsh and saxophonist Nathan Childers; and plenty of heavy hitters who've been a steady presence in the DeJesus-era iteration of the group, including tenor saxophonist Troy Roberts and trombonist Sara Jacovino. 

Everyone listening—students, regulars, and newbies alike—got what they came for and then some. Here are a few images from the evening, reflective of a wonderful set from a well-loved band.