How many different instruments must be used to qualify as a big band?

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It is a term used to describe a specific instrumentation consisting of a saxophone section (3-5), trumpet section (3-5), trombone section (3-5) and a rhythm section made up of piano, drum kit, bass (electric or acoustic) and guitar. The concept began in the 1920s and fused with big dance orchestras in the 1930s to form the Big Band Era or Swing Era. After World War II, big bands moved into mainstream jazz. Today they are found mostly in jazz education programs although a few professional groups record and concertize. www.geocities.com/%7Echalumeaux/WBox.dictB.html Feb 14 02, 2:27 AM