Our Story

The Hilton Head Big Band traces its roots to the early 2000s, when the Hilton Head Plantation Band was formed as a neighborhood music club, managed by Guy Bettarelli and directed by Nancy Canning. Any resident with an instrument and a love of music was welcome. In 2009, Ellie Perry stepped up as conductor, bringing energy, vision, and a deep appreciation for community performance. Rehearsals were lively and unpredictable—a blend of high school students, seasoned clarinetists, cellists, and even a harmonica-playing neighbor—all united by the simple joy of making music together.

As musicianship deepened, the band’s sound became more polished. Volunteers like sound engineer Bob Sandin elevated a modest two-speaker setup into a professional-quality system, while new members brought fresh expertise and energy.

By around 2018, what began as a neighborhood pastime evolved into the Hilton Head Big Band—a high-energy ensemble performing across the Lowcountry under the leadership of Director Pete Stephenson and President Roger Decelles. Today, the band blends swing, jazz, pop, and rock, drawing audiences of all ages. Yet through every change, the group remains rooted in friendship, laughter, and the shared thrill of bringing audiences to their feet.

Contact Us

Help Us HelpYoung Musicans

Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals.  Your generous donation will fund our mission.

Our Mission

The Hilton Head Big Band is dedicated to bringing timeless music to audiences across the Lowcountry while nurturing the next generation of musicians. As an all-volunteer ensemble, we perform jazz, swing, pop, and contemporary favorites that inspire, energize, and connect our community.

Supporting youth in music lies at the heart of what we do. Through partnerships with the Junior Jazz Foundation and Junior Jazz Camp, as well as refurbishing donated instruments, we help ensure students have access to instruction, resources, and opportunity. Every performance fuels scholarships, mentorship, and hands-on learning, creating a lasting musical legacy.

Yes

No