In the summer of 2000, a group of A' level music students led by Gregg McCann performed 'Mack the Knife' at a school concert, and there the Hands of Jazz were born. A few months later Nigel Penfold came on board as both the arranger and tenor saxophonist.

Some years and several cabinet reshuffles later the group has developed into a 12 piece Big Band with a large repertoire, playing at Weddings, Charity Dances and Private Parties.

The majority of the band's members are professional musicians playing in bands throughout the country, musical theatre, cruise ships and teaching in schools.