Big City Dixieland Band, under the direction of Michael Bazan, is a 6 piece professional band that performs in Parades, Festivals. Funerals, Corporate/Special Events, Opening Ceremonies and much more! For over 20 years Big City Dixieland Band has played lively patriotic Dixieland music! Music that's family friendly, toe-tappin’ feel-good traditional music for all ages!
3 reviews
Rev. W.
September 5, 2025Dad loved Dixieland Music, it was his favorite style of music. He always said that when his time came he wanted a dixieland band to play at his graveside. I'm so grateful to have found Big City Dixieland Band. Maureen was so wonderful to work with, kind and willing to help create a joyful send off for my dad. Big City Dixieland and the band's leader Michael knocked it out of the park. They did a "second Line" leading the casket along with friends and family up to graveside with a slow New-Orleans version of Just A Closer Walk With Thee. Then they played a rousing version of When The Saints. They also played at the end of the service, plus several songs afterward - no one wanted to leave - we had family and friends taking videos of the band playing. It was both joyful and respectful, and just what dad asked for. We were beyond pleased.
Hired as: Dixieland Band
Big City Dixieland Band
Thank you so much for this wonderful review. We loved hearing the stories about your dad and we're so glad Big City Dixieland was able to provide a second line band for this special service. It was our pleasure.
Amy T.
February 18, 2025Big City Dixieland was the hit of our party! Working with Maureen was a positive experience. She's very professional and was really thoughtful about how we could bring exciting to the event with Big City Dixieland, including suggesting that at the beginning and ending their performance with a Second Line (ie marching thru the audience). Also Michael, the leader of the band, was very personable and talked a bit in between some of the songs, bringing a bit of interesting education element to the music and performance. All the musicians were talented and well dressed. We would definitely work with Big City Dixieland again.
Hired as: Dixieland Band
Big City Dixieland Band
Thank you so much Amy, for your great review! Big City Dixieland is really glad to have been the musical part of your amazing event! Dixieland Music is upbeat music for everyone, all ages to enjoy!
S. D.
September 12, 2024Big City Dixieland Band was a crowd favorite at our parade! They sounded great and played lively music. We noticed people were clapping, singing along and even dancing in the grass as the band played! Dealing with Maureen and Michael was a pleasure - very professional and yet easy, pleasant and enthusiastic to work with. Big City Dixieland will definitely be at our next event and we confidently recommend them.
Hired as: Dixieland Band
Big City Dixieland Band
Thank you for your kind words. Big City Dixieland Band plays traditional, happy dixieland music and we're so grateful that you choose us to be a part of your wonderful event!
Price range: Contact for rates
Languages: English
Big City Dixieland Band delivers lively, traditional Dixieland music that is perfect for parades, festivals, weddings, funerals, corporate events, and private parties. Known for their vibrant "Second Line" performances, the band brings a taste of New Orleans-style music to every event. With over 20 years of experience, Big City Dixieland offers family-friendly, toe-tapping music, covering classics from patriotic tunes to beloved hymns in the signature Dixieland style.
Under the direction of Michael Bazan, the band consists of six talented musicians. Michael Bazan is an accomplished Music Director, professional clarinetist and saxophonist, and esteemed music educator. He has performed with renowned acts such as Frankie Valli, The Four Tops, and The Woody Herman Orchestra, and toured both across the Midwest and internationally. His musical expertise also includes appearances on VeggieTales soundtracks and leading the McHenry City Band, a 16-piece swing band in McHenry, Illinois.
In addition to his performance career, Michael has spent over 20 years as a respected educator. He serves as the Director of Bands at Wredling Middle School in St. Charles, and for two decades, he was the Jazz Ensemble Director and Jazz Saxophone Professor at Wheaton College Conservatory of Music.
Whether leading a parade, playing for a wedding, or honoring a loved one’s memory, Big City Dixieland Band continues to share their passion for Dixieland music, making every event memorable and uplifting!
Big City Dixieland Band draws inspiration from legendary New Orleans jazz groups like the Original Dixieland Jazz Band and Louis Armstrong’s Hot Five, blending lively traditional Dixieland with vibrant "Second Line" parades. Influences from the Preservation Hall Jazz Band and modern groups like The Dukes of Dixieland shape their energetic performances. Under the direction of Michael Bazan, who has worked with icons such as Woody Herman, Frankie Valli, and The Four Tops, the band incorporates elements of swing and classic big band music. Their performances deliver toe-tapping, family-friendly music that celebrates both jazz history and festive occasions.
Dixieland Band
