BBCG Resources
Useful resources for finding music, choosing tools, locating equipment, and connecting with the wider big-band community. This page will grow as BBCG members identify dependable sources and services worth sharing.
Finding and Buying Music
Dependable starting points for locating music legally and obtaining the edition your band actually needs.
Chart Sources
Sources for new charts, scores, parts, and licensed digital editions.
Used and Out-of-Print Music IN DEVELOPMENT
Places and methods for pursuing legitimate copies of difficult-to-find material.
Copyright and Recordings
Practical references for lawful purchase, performance, copying, and sharing.
Software and Digital Tools
Tools that help musicians create, prepare, organize, study, and present big-band music.
Software
General software sources, audio tools, restoration tools, and transcription resources.
Notation Programs
Applications for arranging, engraving, editing, and exporting scores and parts.
PDF Tools and Techniques
Software for producing clean, ordered, and searchable music files.
Website Reviews
Member experience with file-sharing and related websites.
Equipment and Supplies
Useful equipment for rehearsals, performances, music preparation, and library work.
Scanners and Printers
Member experience with equipment used to prepare and preserve music.
Electronic Music Displays
Software and hardware for displaying music electronically.
Where to Purchase Music Stands
If you prefer not to build your own music stands, but would rather just BUY them, here are some sources where you can purchase music stands for big bands. If you know of any other sources, please let me know.
POLY BAND STAND by Em-Bee ideas. Group member Steve had this to say about these (thanks, Steve!):
We've been using stands purchased from Em-Bee Ideas. We bought 16 stands around 1990. For the last 13 years we have used them on at least 50-60 gigs a year. So far they are still in great shape. Maybe a little dirty. Being poly stands, they are very light and easy to clean. I keep them in $10 suitcases from a Salvation Army thrift store. This band is not exactly careful in their handling. Only drawback is windy weather can be a bit problematic.
Em-Bee people were very easy to work with. Gave them a business card with our logo and they put the logo on each stand.
— Steve, Bayside Big Band
And group member Jon said:
I use the PollyBandStand and love it!
— Jon
Jon also pointed out a couple of places (eBay and MusicCity.com) to purchase used stands. (Thanks, Jon!)
In doing some additional research in September 2019, we found the following additional sources, but as yet have no feedback from any group member about the quality, integrity, reliability, or usability of these sources. If you have used any of these, or know of others, please let us know.
- Big Band Stands — available in 24", 30", and 40" high, priced in pounds sterling; will print your graphics on the front. Also has cases and carry bags available.
- Music City — three pages of music stands, including several different kinds of big band fronts. Seems a bit expensive.
- Music Treasures — several commercial big band stands listed. Seems a bit expensive.
Music Organizations
Organizations, educational programs, and communities that support jazz and big-band music.
Professional Organizations IN DEVELOPMENT
Educational Resources IN DEVELOPMENT
Big-Band Communities IN DEVELOPMENT
BBCG Shared Resources
Materials and recommendations contributed by members for the benefit of the group.
BBCG Document Library
Documents, downloads, and reference materials gathered from the legacy site.
Member Recommendations IN DEVELOPMENT
Resource Reviews IN DEVELOPMENT
Know of a dependable resource BBCG members should consider? Post it to the group, or Contact Us and tell us about it.