The University of Hohenheim Big Band was founded in early 2016 following an initiative by Timo Schempp. The current bandleader is Christian Ruetz. He studied school music and trumpet as well as jazz and popular music at the Stuttgart University of Music. He won multiple awards in various music contests, including the Stuttgart University of Music's school music contest.
The band's repertoire includes classic Big Band and swing songs as well as soul, funk, Latin, and pop tunes. The band's musical range is enhanced by vocal titles performed with the Big Band's singers.
The Big Band performs on the University of Hohenheim campus for various occasions, but it also presents the University as a musical ambassador at external events and therefore enjoys playing performances outside of the University, as well.
The Big Band is composed of a pool of musicians. Specific rehearsals take place for each project, and musicians are contacted by email concerning their availability. Musicians passionate about Big Band music are encouraged to contact Tabea Franke or Timo Schempp if they are interested in joining the Big Band.
