For around 50 years, the WDG big band of the Walddörfer-Gymnasium has stood for rousing big band sound, musical passion and the promotion of young talent. Founded in the 1970s, it is Hamburg's oldest school big band and has inspired young musicians for jazz, swing, funk and soul for generations. It is one of the best school big bands in the Hanseatic city and has already received several awards, including several first places in the "Jugend jazzt" competition.
Jazz from the Woods – this is the motto under which the WDG Big Band celebrates its 50th anniversary. At the same time, its history is a testimony to the lively jazz tradition in the north of Hamburg and in the forest villages. Over five decades, the big band has promoted and musically shaped young talents. Time and again, musicians have emerged from its ranks who have found their way into the professional music scene – including the renowned bassists Lisa Wulff and Eva Kruse. For the big anniversary, some of them are returning to their musical roots and will be on stage at Nica on this special evening.
A musical focus on this evening is on the elegant harmonies, refined arrangements and casual grooves of the West Coast sound, with pieces by Steely Dan, Christopher Cross and Toto. In addition, there is a lot of joy in playing, musical surprises and, of course, the irresistible big band sound of the WDG big band.