Are you part of a big band and does a day of coaching by musicians from Brussels Jazz Orchestra sound like music to your ears? Then Fire Up That Big Band! on Sunday 8 March 2026 in Destelheide is definitely for you. Interested bands can apply until 1 January 2026 through this online form.
Fire Up That Big Band! is all about inspiring, fascinating and exchanging ideas. BJO musicians welcome four big bands to Destelheide (Dworp), where they will be coached by each of them in turn throughout the day. Each participating band chooses four pieces they would like to work on during 8 March: songs that have been rehearsed before but are not yet perfect.
The BJO coaches take on one of the chosen compositions per orchestra, which is worked on during four rehearsal sessions in a rotation system. In this way, each big band gets to know four members of the Brussels Jazz Orchestra who share their experience. The coaches conduct, give feedback and offer insight into the working methods of a professional. Their input provides the finishing touch to each orchestra's repertoire, perfect for taking to an upcoming concert.
Any big band (from Belgium or the Netherlands) interested in a day of coaching by professional musicians. The aim is not to have the four selected works prepared down to the last detail in advance: choose repertoire that can be worked on.
During Fire Up That Big Band!, there will also be opportunities for exchange between the musicians of the participating bands and the coaches.
Fire Up That Big Band! takes place at Vormingscentrum Destelheide, Destelheidestraat 66, 1653 Dworp (B). The day consists of four rehearsals (including breaks and lunch break) and ends with a concert, during which the four bands present their rehearsed repertoire under the guidance of their respective coaches. The concert is free of charge for friends and family.
Participating to Fire Up That Big Band! costs 680 euro (exclusive TVA, exclusive catering).
Bands can apply until 1 January 2026. The BJO team will then make a selection from the candidates, after which all bands will be notified. Selected bands will receive all practical information from that moment onwards.
You're not sure if Fire Up! is a match with your band? Do you have other questions before you want to apply?
