Welcome to the Big Beer Band
The Big Beer Band, led by long‑standing bandleader Nigel Crane, has been bringing big‑band energy to Croydon every Monday night since the early nineties.
What began as a gathering of passionate musicians has grown into a vibrant ensemble made up of both professional and semi‑professional players, all dedicated to keeping the big‑band tradition alive—and having a great time doing it.
🎺 What we play
From classic Swing and fiery Bebop to groove‑driven Funk, colourful Latin, soulful blues, and even a festive selection of Christmas favourites each December, the band’s repertoire is as wide‑ranging as it is exciting.
…see our music page for more
Our popular TV themes and film nights add an extra layer of fun, drawing in audiences who love hearing iconic tunes performed with full big‑band power.
🎼 World‑Class Charts
Our repertoire features arrangements from some of the most respected names in big‑band writing, including:
- Sammy Nestico
- Callum Au
- Bob Florence
- Thad Jones
- Gordon Goodwin
- Bob Curnow
…and many more who continue to inspire our sound.
🎶 Why we’re still going after 30+ years
The Big Beer Band blends musical excellence with an infectious sense of fun.
It delivers something fresh: top‑tier musicianship, a huge variety of styles, and the unmistakable energy that Nigel Crane and the band bring to every chart. It’s the mix of quality, fun, and sheer big‑band power that keeps people returning week after week.