IT ALL started when a group of big band enthusiasts came together to accompany Proserpine State High School's musical performance Oliver in May this year.

Following the success and the bonds created through their mutual love of music, the Whitsundays's Big Band collectively decided to continue playing together and to bring the pizzazz of a big band back to Airlie Beach.

"There are no jazz bands in the Whitsundays, and there's nowhere in our local area for big band enthusiasts to perform," band member Mike Leyland said.

The band is comprised of 14 people, some of whom travel hundreds of kilometres from Mackay, Collinsville and Bowen to participate.

Ages and skill levels vary as well, with ex-professional musicians, music teachers, ex-high school music students and current high school students making up the band.

"They enjoy the challenges of performing a variety of demanding pieces, as well as a lot of laughs and musical camaraderie along the way," he said. Musical genres covered by the band include jazz, funk, swing, rock and blues all from the big band era featuring well-known composers such as Phil Collins, Glenn Miller, Woody Herman, Buddy Rick and Count Basie.

"It's not cheap; music is very expensive with charts often costing around $100.

" To hire a big band costs almost a thousand dollars an hour, once you include an hourly rate for the performers and travel costs," Mr Leyland said.

However, for those hoping to hear the big band play, a free concert has been scheduled to take place at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, this Sunday, November 22.

The performance will include two sets which will include an hour-and-a-half of entertainment starting from 1pm.

"Everyone is welcome to come down and enjoy our very first gig for free," Mr Leyland said. The band also aims to provide a learning platform for the younger band members and musicians in the Whitsundays area.