He turned 79 on October 9, 2013. That fact that someone has experienced a lot by this age goes without saying. However, this applies more for some people than for others. Abdullah Ibrahim can justifiably claim that he has not only experienced history, but also shaped it. Born in the middle of South African apartheid in 1934, he started to play piano in his native country under the name "Dollar Brand" at that time; his name at birth was "Adolphe Johannes Brand". He soon became known in South Africa, which was more dangerous than helpful as a member of a majority terrorized by a minority. He left his country in 1962, and Duke Ellington arranged for him to go to America a few years later. An international career started after that, which only few living jazz musicians can look back on. That fact that he played at the inauguration of Nelson Mandela after the abolition of apartheid was only logical.

As an ensemble pertaining to the WDR radio and television broadcasting entity, the Cologne WDR Big Band fulfils a mission as regional cultural ambassador – specifically in order to bring jazz music and similar styles closer to audiences all across North-Rhine Westphalia. The orchestra’s profile foresees the elaboration of variegated programmes featuring the widest possible spectrum of styles. With its international roster of members, this orchestra is also firmly rooted in European tradition, particularly in European jazz. Each member is a consummate soloist with an unmistakable timbre, thereby creating an orchestral sound with brilliant projection in the concert hall. In collaboration with internationally renowned guest conductors, composers, arrangers and soloists, the WDR Big Band puts together an annual series of concert projects covering a wide spectrum. Live performances take place not only within the WDR broadcasting territory, but also in the rest of Germany and abroad, thus increasing the big band’s outreach and notoriety. The WDR Big Band’s programme covers the entire jazz spectrum, including all styles of music related to jazz, from tradition to the avant-garde.