The band’s origins date from the earliest days of the BBC and the formation of the original BBC Dance Orchestra in 1928. This began under the leadership of Jack Payne before Henry Hall took over in 1932.

By the 1960’s the band was known as the Radio Big Band and functioned as part of the larger BBC Radio Orchestra. However, in 1979, as a new series called Big Band Special began on Radio 2, the band’s profile was given a huge boost.

Originally commissioned as a short run of twelve shows, the impact made by the BBC Big Band under the direction of Barry Forgie ensured that the run was extended to 34 years before ending in September 2013.

Over the past 20 years the band has performed with many giants of the music world.  These have included Ray Charles, Tony Bennett, George Benson, George Shearing, Lalo Schifrin, Clark Terry and Michael Bublé.