Melanie Howell-Brooks

The 8-Bit Big Band(Opens in a new window) is a Grammy Award–winning contemporary symphonic jazz orchestra dedicated to celebrating and reimagining the most beloved video game music hits. They rearrange these classic tracks in exciting and creative ways, pushing the envelope on how we experience these legendary soundtracks as standalone musical works.

The band formed in 2017 with the release of their debut album, Press Start. They followed with their sophomore album, Choose Your Character, in 2018, then their Grammy Award–winning third album, Backwards Compatible, in 2022. The band has quickly made a name for itself.

Since its inception, the band has garnered a significant online following, accumulating millions of YouTube views and hundreds of thousands of subscribers, followers, and listeners worldwide. They have also sold out concert venues across the US.

The members of the 8-Bit Big Band come from around the globe, with many based in New York City. They are among the most highly sought-after musicians and performers in the industry.

Drawing from some of the most cherished video game titles, the band brings large ensemble arranging into the digital and gaming era. They offer the same level of professional arranging, performance, and production that has traditionally been associated with large symphonic jazz orchestras.

The band’s repertoire spans classic big band styles, resulting in a contemporary and eclectic listening experience influenced by a range of genres and eras.