On the 30th of March 2025, the University of Plymouth's Big Band headed to Princess Pavilion in Falmouth to compete in the South West Battle of the Big Bands 2025! Those who participated shared the incredible success of the competition and their pride for every member who performed...
Plymouth University Big Band, a talented group of student musicians, achieved an incredible milestone by winning the South West Battle of the Big Bands 2025.
"The South West Battle of the Big Bands is an annual competition that brings together university big bands from across the region to compete for the top honour. This year, the event took place on the 30th of March 2025 at the Princess Pavilion in Falmouth, a venue that played host to a night of electrifying performances from some of the finest university musicians in the South West.
We competed against esteemed university big bands from Falmouth, Exeter, Bath, and Bristol, the team showcased their musical prowess and energy to claim the prestigious title.
Plymouth University Big Band delivered a stunning performance that captivated both the audience and judges. Their setlist included a vibrant mix of pieces:
- Super Mario Bros Theme Tune – a nostalgic and upbeat arrangement
- My Little Suede Shoes – a jazz standard full of charm
- Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy – an energetic swing piece that won the award for Best Song
- I Will Survive – a bold and powerful rendition
The band’s performance was met with resounding applause, and their dedication and hard work paid off as they were crowned the overall winners. This marks their first win of the coveted Best Band award in six years, a long-awaited and well-deserved recognition of their musical talent and unity. Alongside this, they also proudly took home the award for Best Song for their wonderful performance of "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy."
The competition serves as a platform for university big bands to showcase their talents, celebrate jazz and swing music, and compete in a friendly yet highly competitive musical environment. It encourages students to develop their musical skills, teamwork, and stage presence while fostering a love for big band music."
"I am incredibly proud of every single member of the band and the amount of work and effort we have put into our music throughout the year. We sounded better than we ever have before and it was clear we were all enjoying ourselves immensely, because this thing we’d hyped ourselves up for was finally happening and it was truly the happiest I’ve ever felt playing with the band. This is my final year and as chair I’ve worked hard to make it enjoyable for everyone, sometimes at my own expense, so I’m deeply thankful to my fellow band members for making my final BOBB so memorable and uplifting. There was an amazing feeling of comradery throughout the day, and the way we all erupted when we were announced as the winners will be a memory that is forever seared in my brain. The words 'Tamar bridge' will probably bring a happy tear to my eye every time I hear it." – Marie Boyère, Chair.
I'm very proud of the whole band. They can hold their heads high as the spectacular musicians they are - now it's officially recognised! Highlights from the judges comments were 'fun performance', 'well-chosen programme', 'well-directed band and the enthusiasm came across', 'strong soloing', 'good rhythm section'. – Mathew Knight, Musical Director.
With all honesty, being apart of the University of Plymouth Big Band has been an exciting and welcoming experience as an international student. I would encourage anyone to give it a try even if they’ve only played an instrument a handful of times. – Alex Alani, Band Member and New Musical Director for 2025/26.
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