Disciples of Ursula Big Band

Over the last six years, this young big band has developed a vibrant and passionate relationship with its loyal and expanding fan base. Comprising 14 musicians between the ages of 24 and 37, from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds (Canada, Portugal, Poland, Haiti, and more...) the band has succeeded in winning over jazz lovers and newcomers to the big band style alike.
The band distinguishes itself by its colourful and explosive stage presence, taking its cue from its
namesake Ursula (a pianist from Laval, Quebec). Its originality and enormously varied repertoire are no doubt the keys to its success. From Horace Silver to Van Morrison, Duke Ellington to Maceo Parker, not to
mention the original Disciples compositions, the tunes are reinvented by the band in a new take on
'big band', always keeping the sweet voice of Gizelia Pacheco in mind.
Speaking of Gizelia, she's the soul of the band's unique sound, charming, emotional and authentic, with a solid gospel background and an entirely original interpretation.
In June 2002, the Disciples of Ursula Big Band launched its debut CD, "Blow Them Horns", recorded at Studio Oka-sur-la-Montagne in Oka. The album consists mostly of original songs, with a couple of
covers including a bluesy version of Route 66.
In brief, as the fans will confirm, if you're going to see the Disciples, get ready for a party!