with Bolingbrook High School
2025-11-11 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | The Venue Aurora IL, 21 S Broadway Ave, Aurora, IL, 60505, United States
The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Bolingbrook High School on Tuesday, November 11th.

~ This event is sponsored by Vicki McCoy from RE/MAX In The Village.
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⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.
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~ The Venue is brought to you by Fox Valley Music Foundation, dedicated to local music awareness, education and preservation. Find out more at themusicvenue.org

with Lisle High School
2025-11-18 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Lisle High School at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!
The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Lisle High School on Tuesday, October 7th.

~ This event is sponsored by Vicki McCoy from RE/MAX In The Village.
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Prospect High School
2025-11-25 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Prospect High School at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

~ This event is sponsored by Vicki McCoy from RE/MAX In The Village.
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Naperville Central High School
2025-12-02 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Naperville Central High School at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Naperville Central High School on Tuesday, December 2nd.
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Dundee-Crown High School
2025-12-09 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Dundee-Crown High School at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Dundee-Crown High School on Tuesday, December 9th.
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.

The12 Grooves of Christmas" featuring Angel Spiccia
2025-12-21 15:00 - 18:00
Pete Ellman Big Band presents “The 12 Grooves of Christmas” with special guest Angel Spiccia at The Venue on December 21st.

The Pete Ellman Big Band will present “The 12 Grooves of Christmas” with special guest Angel Spiccia at The Venue on Sunday, December 21st.
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ ANGEL SPICCIA ⭐
Possessing a versatile, captivating tone and an extensive vocal range, Angel Spiccia is recognized for adding her own color and style to each song she takes on. That, along with her natural approach to phrasing and time, is truly what invites her audience in at every performance. Wayne Messmer, professional speaker, singer, broadcaster and Chicago jazz WDCB radio host notes “One thing about Angel is her tremendous stage presence, and then she delivers this magnificent talent. It’s obvious when people love what they do and I think the important thing about her is that there isn’t a song writer on this planet who wouldn’t love to have their song sung by Angel.”
Having studied and been surrounded by music most of her life within the Chicagoland area, Angel was exposed to various professional live performance opportunities and studio work consisting of commercial advertisement jingles and voice overs at a very young age. After graduating from Millikin University with degrees in Commercial Music and Music Business, Angel spent a year studying and singing throughout Italy, where she built an international network of jazz musicians and fans that she continues to return to nearly each year for various private events and festival dates. She has most recently added Australia to her list of global performance accomplishments after spending a period of three years traveling to Sydney where she became active in the jazz community.
In Chicago, Angel has been spotlighted on numerous morning shows, such as ABC 7’s Windy City Live and FOX 32’s Good Day Chicago and competed in top 5 standing in several televised vocal competitions. Recently she was featured on WGN-TV performing “God Bless America” and the National Anthem for the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Angel currently holds a steady schedule performing in various Chicagoland venues, as well as headlining Chicago’s finest jazz establishments such as The Green Mill, Andy’s Jazz Club, Winter’s Jazz Club, Room 43 and The Jazz Showcase. Her experience and love for big band music has also provided her the opportunity as at the featured vocalist for the Pete Ellman Big Band, The Mulligan Mosacis, British Buddy Alumni Big Band and the Chicago Jazz Orchestra. Angel is also a partner in her father’s social event business, Musicworks LTD, where she is active in planning/managing music entertainment for weddings and corporate parties, as well as singing with signature band, Phase4 (www.phase4music.com).
On Sale Oct 31 at 8:00 AM

The 12 Grooves of Christmas" with special guest Angel Spiccia - Evening Show
2025-12-21 19:00 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band’s “The12 Grooves of Christmas” EVENING SHOW!

⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ ANGEL SPICCIA ⭐
Possessing a versatile, captivating tone and an extensive vocal range, Angel Spiccia is recognized for adding her own color and style to each song she takes on. That, along with her natural approach to phrasing and time, is truly what invites her audience in at every performance. Wayne Messmer, professional speaker, singer, broadcaster and Chicago jazz WDCB radio host notes “One thing about Angel is her tremendous stage presence, and then she delivers this magnificent talent. It’s obvious when people love what they do and I think the important thing about her is that there isn’t a song writer on this planet who wouldn’t love to have their song sung by Angel.”
Having studied and been surrounded by music most of her life within the Chicagoland area, Angel was exposed to various professional live performance opportunities and studio work consisting of commercial advertisement jingles and voice overs at a very young age. After graduating from Millikin University with degrees in Commercial Music and Music Business, Angel spent a year studying and singing throughout Italy, where she built an international network of jazz musicians and fans that she continues to return to nearly each year for various private events and festival dates. She has most recently added Australia to her list of global performance accomplishments after spending a period of three years traveling to Sydney where she became active in the jazz community.
In Chicago, Angel has been spotlighted on numerous morning shows, such as ABC 7’s Windy City Live and FOX 32’s Good Day Chicago and competed in top 5 standing in several televised vocal competitions. Recently she was featured on WGN-TV performing “God Bless America” and the National Anthem for the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Angel currently holds a steady schedule performing in various Chicagoland venues, as well as headlining Chicago’s finest jazz establishments such as The Green Mill, Andy’s Jazz Club, Winter’s Jazz Club, Room 43 and The Jazz Showcase. Her experience and love for big band music has also provided her the opportunity as at the featured vocalist for the Pete Ellman Big Band, The Mulligan Mosacis, British Buddy Alumni Big Band and the Chicago Jazz Orchestra. Angel is also a partner in her father’s social event business, Musicworks LTD, where she is active in planning/managing music entertainment for weddings and corporate parties, as well as singing with signature band, Phase4 (www.phase4music.com).

with Addison Trail High School (2 Bands)
2026-01-13 18:30 - 21:00
he Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Oswego High School (2 Bands)
2026-01-20 18:30 - 21:00
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Rotolo Middle School & Batavia High School
2026-01-27 18:30 - 21:00
The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Rotolo Middle School & Batavia High School on Tuesday, January 27th.

~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Yorkville High School (2 bands)
2026-02-03 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Yorkville High School (2 bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.

with Mundelein High School (2 bands)
2026-02-10 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Mundelein High School (2 bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Mundelein High School (2 bands) on Tuesday, February 10th.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

An Evening With Leslie Beukelman
2026-02-21 20:00 - 22:00
Local talent Leslie Beukelman, originally from Sandwich, Illinois, joins the Pete Ellman Big Band for a Cool Night of Hot Jazz!

“Exquisite vocalist… (who has) mastered genres as vast as soul, melodic jazz, scat, rock and atonal experimentation…”
– Lucia Mauro (Chicago Tribune)

“Leslie Beukelman has a striking voice that conveys emotion subtly and elegantly….Her sound is haunting and personal.”
– All About Jazz (Golden Daffodil Review Sept 2020)

Performing in my youth was a priority, mostly because I enjoyed being on stage with a crew of people, taking the audience (and ourselves) on a journey that would only happen that very way on that very day. We were a team and we were in it together. Going to school at Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of Performing Arts here in the city of Chicago, I earned a jazz performance/jazz studies degree. In addition to meeting a lot of cool people and studying with some of the best musicians the world has to offer, I gained tools to refine my craft and figure out what kind of musical house I wanted to build. I haven’t settled on one type of house yet, as I enjoy many styles of music. Staying true to my initial statement of “taking the audience on a journey,” I do not limit myself to one genre of song and I enjoy exploring music with the incredible musicians I have met through the years and have the true honor of collaborating. – Leslie

with Kaneland High School & Negua Valley High School
2026-02-24 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Kaneland & Negua High School at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Kaneland High School & Negua Valley High School on Tuesday, February 24th.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Oswego East High School (2 Bands)
2026-03-03 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Oswego East High School (2 Bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Oswego East High School (2 Bands) on Tuesday, March 3rd.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Leman Middle School & West Chicago High School
2026-03-10 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Leman Middle School & West Chicago HS at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Oswego High School (2 Bands) on Tuesday, January 20th.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Blackhawk Middle School & Providence Catholic HS
2026-03-17 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Blackhawk Middle School & Providence HS at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Blackhawk Middle School & Providence High School on Tuesday, March 17th.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Naperville North High School (2 Bands)
2026-03-24 18:30 - 21:00
Overview

Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Naperville North High School (2 Bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Oswego High School (2 Bands) on Tuesday, January 20th.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with DeKalb High School (2 bands)
2026-03-31 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with DeKalb High School (2 bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest DeKalb High School (2 bands) on Tuesday, March 31st.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM

⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.
~~~~~~~~~~
~ The Venue is brought to you by Fox Valley Music Foundation, dedicated to local music awareness, education and preservation. Find out more at themusicvenue.org
~ TICKETS: We strongly recommend that you avoid buying tickets for our shows from any third parties. We will be unable to honor tickets purchased anywhere other than our website through Eventbrite or at our Box Office.
~~~~~~~~~~

with Hinsdale Central High School (2 Bands)
2026-04-07 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Hinsdale Central High School (2 Bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Hinsdale Central High School (2 Bands) on Tuesday, April 7th.

The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band
.

with Clarendon Hills Middle School/Plainfield North HS
2026-04-14 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Clarendon Hills MS & Plainfield North at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Clarendon Hills Middle School and Plainfield North High School on Tuesday, April 14th.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Thornridge & Sycamore High School
2026-04-21 18:30 - 21:00
Overview

Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Thornridge & Sycamore High School at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM

~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.
~~~~~~~~~~
~ The Venue is brought to you by Fox Valley Music Foundation, dedicated to local music awareness, education and preservation. Find out more at themusicvenue.org
~ TICKETS: We strongly recommend that you avoid buying tickets for our shows from any third parties. We will be unable to honor tickets purchased anywhere other than our website through Eventbrite or at our Box Office.

with Homewood-Flossmor High School (2 Bands)
2026-04-28 18:30 - 21:00
Overview

Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Homewood-Flossmor High School (2 Bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Homewood-Flossmor High School (2 Bands) on Tuesday, April 27th.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.
~~~~~~~~~~

with Downers Grove South High School (2 Bands)
2026-05-05 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Downers Grove South HS (2 Bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Downers Grove South High School (2 Bands) on Tuesday, May 5th.
DOORS = 6PM
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Downers Grove North High School(2 Bands)
2026-05-12 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Downers Grove North HS (2 Bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Downers Grove North High School (2 Bands) on Tuesday, May 12th.

~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with West Aurora High School (2 Bands)
2026-05-19 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with West Aurora High School (2 Bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest West Aurora High School (2 Bands) on Tuesday, May 19th.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

with Jewell Middle School & West Aurora HS (2 Bands)
2026-05-26 18:30 - 21:00
Pete Ellman Big Band performs with Jewell MS & West Aurora HS (2 Bands) at The Venue in downtown Aurora, IL. Join us for a night of jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND with special guest Jewell Middle School & West Aurora High School (2 Bands) on Tuesday, May 26th.
DOORS = 6PM
STUDENTS = 6:30PM
PEBB = 7:30PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $10
General Admission = $10
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND ⭐
The Pete Ellman Big Band (PEBB) was formed in 2009 after Pete retired from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of service. They regularly invite student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real world environment playing the music they love in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.

PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND SUMMER DRUM AND PERCUSSION SPECTACULAR - Featuring Matt Plaskota
2026-06-23 19:00 - 22:30
Pete Ellman Big Band performs at The Venue on June 23rd. Join us for a night of amazing percussion and big band jazz!

The Venue is pleased to present THE PETE ELLMAN BIG BAND Featuring Matt Plaskota Tuesday, June 23rd.
Doors = 6:00PM
Show = 7:00 PM
~ Advance Admission ~
Premium Reserved Seating = $25
General Admission = $20
~ Day of Show ~
Additional Door Charge = $5
~~~~~~~~~~
⭐ ABOUT ⭐
The PEBB will be joined by several additional percussionists to deliver a heart-thumping, toe-tapping summer drum spectacular. This is the first of a three-show series that the PEBB will present at The Venue over the summer of 2026. Tickets are per performance date.
During the school year, PEBB regularly invites student jazz ensembles to join them and will provide guest clinicians. This is a way to get these budding musicians into a real-world environment, playing the music they love, in addition to an auditorium in front of parents or classmates.
Additionally, the PEBB has hosted numerous fundraisers at their events to help raise money (and food / toys) for local non-profits such as Loaves & Fishes, Toys for Tots, Kids Matter, Kidz Cabaret, Youth Symphony of DuPage, Naperville Educational Foundation, Gil Ellman Memorial Fund, and more! To Pete, it is all about giving back to the community to help kids, in general, and also to give kids an opportunity to participate in the arts.
Pete has worked full time at Ellman’s Music Center since 1985, having worked in nearly every position in the company, from repairman to outside sales representative to purchasing agent to janitor. With that kind of overall experience, he has a uniquely complete vision on how to run the business.
Pete continues to play professionally and has performed with nationally known artists such as Wayne Newton, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Aretha Franklin, Bob Newhart, Chicago Sinfonietta, and many more. Being a trumpet player, Pete’s favorite artist to date has been world renowned trumpeter Wayne Bergeron.
Pete attended DePaul University and majored in Music Performance. Peter attends many industry specific and financial seminars including NASMD, NAPBIRT, and NAMM. He sits on the board of the Naperville Municipal Band.
~~~~~~~~~~
~ The Venue is brought to you by Fox Valley Music Foundation, dedicated to local music awareness, education and preservation. Find out more at themusicvenue.org
~ TICKETS: We strongly recommend that you avoid buying tickets for our shows from any third parties. We will be unable to honor tickets purchased anywhere other than our website through Eventbrite or at our Box Office.

An Evening with Thaddeus Tukes
2026-07-28 20:00 - 22:00

An Evening with Leslie Beukelman
2026-08-25 20:00 - 22:00
