Text reading 'Joey Stempien Big Band' with black squares and bars.

“A young, emerging force in the Upstate NY jazz scene ”

Rochester’s elite big band ⬇️

A young man in a black suit and glasses leans against a railing in a modern building interior with light-colored walls and blue carpet.

Very few big bands today perform full programs of original music by a single living composer.

Even fewer perform full programs of music of a composer under the age of 25.

The Joey Stempien Big Band exists to do exactly that. Our concerts showcase a new generation of jazz artists shaping the future of the big band tradition. The result is music that feels bold, contemporary, and deeply engaging—programs that invite curious listeners, connect with longtime jazz fans, and give audiences something to remember.

A unique roster…

JSBB is made up of a handpicked ensemble of some of the most promising young jazz musicians from Eastman, the University of Rochester, and other regional schools.

What sets us apart is not just the caliber of the players, but the collective vision: to present big band music that feels contemporary, forward-looking, and deeply connected to the community.

Audiences know they’re hearing tomorrow’s leaders in jazz, today.

Young man with light brown hair smiling while holding a trombone at a music practice or rehearsal, with other musicians nearby.
A woman singing into a microphone on stage, wearing a colorful, patterned dress and jewelry, with a background that suggests a live outdoor performance.
A young man playing a silver trumpet on stage during a musical performance.

Young voices for big venues!

What sets a next-generation band apart is their stage presence.

With JSBB, there is no shortage!

A man with long dark hair, beard, wearing a beige cap with 'COUCH' embroidered on it, smiling with eyes closed, wearing a striped shirt over a black t-shirt.
A young man in sunglasses and a blue shirt with white shorts conducting an outdoor music performance, with band members playing percussion and saxophone.
A man playing saxophone on stage with a woman singing into a microphone during an outdoor performance with trees and a street scene in the background.
A young man smiling while holding a golden saxophone, with other people partially visible in the background.
A young woman with blonde hair and glasses smiling at a microphone on stage, while a man plays piano beside her, with an audience in the foreground.

Listen to the band or book a call!