Events
Padawans Big Band
jazz · big-band
Padawans Big Band is a jazz ensemble bringing together musicians from a wide range of international backgrounds. Among its members is pianist Cengiz Yaltkaya, born in Istanbul, who spent his school years in Switzerland before moving to New York in 1967. He studied at Berklee College of Music, worked as an arranger and producer at Atlantic Records from 1976 to 1986, and has been active on the Los Angeles jazz scene since 1995. Bassist Gordon Bash, the youngest member, hails from Pittsburgh. The ensemble stands in the tradition of the great big band era, blending jazz with elements of funk, fusion, and classical composition — a musical language shaped by pioneers such as Thad Jones, Don Ellis, and Jaco Pastorius. Padawans Big Band brings these influences to the stage, bridging the classic swing heritage with contemporary jazz idioms.
Padawans Big Band live in Mallorca
No Padawans Big Band dates are currently announced.
Frequently asked questions about Padawans Big Band
What style of music does Padawans Big Band play?
The ensemble plays jazz in the big band format, combining classic swing traditions with influences from funk, fusion, and modern composition.
Who are the members of the band?
Members include pianist Cengiz Yaltkaya (Istanbul/New York/Los Angeles), who worked at Atlantic Records, and bassist Gordon Bash from Pittsburgh, the band's youngest member.
In what context does Padawans Big Band perform?
The ensemble performs at jazz festivals and live venues, bringing the big band format to broad audiences including at international events.