Full House Jazz Big Band in Vancouver BC Canada

Our Story

The origins of Full House Jazz can be traced back almost 30 years to the formation of the “Third Stage”, a big band spin-off from the Delta Music Makers, which at the time was a beginner/intermediate community concert band for adults.

After a period of several years, Third Stage changed its name to the Mighty Fraser Big Band.  Under the skilled tutelage of Christian Morrison, the band reached new heights in proficiency and repertoire and performed in numerous venues, from jazz vespers and big band festivals to street gigs, corporate events, and dances.

Full House Jazz, is a group of dedicated and talented musicians that includes several music teachers and others with diverse backgrounds, all having a passion for big band jazz.  

The band’s repertoire and musicality continue to grow under the direction of Kris Covlin, an accomplished performing saxophonist and established musical director.  

Kris challenges the band with exciting big band orchestrations exploring a variety of different musical styles in blues, Latin jazz, rock, funk, bebop, fusion and contemporary music.

Our Director

Kris Covlin is a professional saxophonist living in Vancouver, BC, Canada. As the Musical Director of Full House Jazz and the Royal City Concert Band, he is actively involved in the community, educating local musicians and promoting live music in the form of weekly concerts throughout the year. Kris has also gained a reputation as a brilliant interpreter of new music and has been featured as soloist and chamber musician in concerts throughout Canada and abroad.

Kris completed his Bachelor of Music at the University of Alberta. Shortly thereafter, Kris pursued his training for two years in Paris, France, at the CNR Boulogne-Billancourt, where he obtained a First Prize in Interpretation.   Completing his studies at Bowling Green State University, an institution well known for its specialization in new music, Kris was awarded a Master’s Degree in Music.

Since embarking on a professional career, Kris has lived and worked in Montreal, Edmonton, Victoria, Vancouver and Ottawa, collaborating with many talented musicians and composers all across Canada. Kris is also active as a performer, regularly commissioning new works and producing concerts.