The Grand River Big Band is a 17 piece band specializing in music from the heart... Jazz! The band features saxophones, trombones, trumpets, piano, guitar, bass, drums and singer. Smaller groups are available for special occasions and dances.

In May of 1991, a Big Band ensemble was formed for the purpose of presenting an example of swing era music for the Grand Rapids Symphonic Band Jazz Concert that season. The group rehearsed only six numbers for the concert performance but enjoyed it so much that the group continues to perform  to this day!

From this beginning, the Grand River Big Band was born.  The group has performed at many venues since 1991; Center Pointe Mall, Coast Guard Festival, Bay Pointe Restaurant at Gun Lake, Egypt Valley Country Club, Battle Creek Country Club, Muskegon Country Club, Elks Country Club, Lowell Showboat, Lake Odessa End of Summer Concert, Festival - Grand Rapids, USO shows, Fredrick Meijer Gardens, Pulaski Days, Double Nickel Party, Eastern Ave. Hall, Grand Haven summer Waterfront Dances as well as many private events

The Grand River Big Band can help with your special event, please include us in your plans! 

For more information about booking the Grand River Big Band, please contact:

William VanderPloeg
PO Box 11
Ada, MI 49301
616-389-3967 or 616-956-5101(w)