Ben McNicoll is a saxophonist, band leader, and teacher in Auckland, New Zealand. 

Ben plays Soprano, Alto, Tenor & Baritone saxophones, and doubles on bass clarinet, and a little clarinet and flute every now and then. . 

Ben studied at Massey University in Wellington from 1998-2000 

Since 2001, Ben has been based in Auckland, teaching privately, and playing in a number of bands across a wide range of styles. 

Currently Performing With

Ijebu Pleasure Club
Leading a new 11-piece afrobeat group hitting Auckland like a funky freight train. 

McNicoll Brown Orme
Hard-swinging organ trio jazz

Auckland Jazz Orchestra
18-piece contemporary original jazz ensemble, dedicated to playing NZ composers and arrangers. 2 albums of original music. 

Previously

Homebrew
Hip-hop crew with NZ platinum album, and toured to many NZ festivals including The Big Day Out, Homegrown, Rhythm & Vines
VIDEO

The Hot Grits
12-14 piece Afro-soul group, toured NZ with 2 albums of original music. 

Gahu
Original afro-jazz fusion. 2 albums of original music, and opened for James Brown in Auckland. 

At Last: The Etta James Story
A visiting stage show performed at Aotea Centre. 

Ben has also performed or recorded with:

• Avantdale Bowling Club - award winning hip-hop

• The North Harbour Swing Band - classic jazz big band

• Bridey McNicoll - acoustic pop

• Peachy Keen - spoken word

• Ishta - world fusion

• The Alibis - jump swing

• Oceania Storm - reggae

• Session work for Dancing With The Stars 2018/2019

Selected Discography

Tear Yourself Together
Spammerz
Rangitoto Records (2016)

Home Brew
Home Brew
YGB (2012)

Shell Money
Gahu
Rhythm Method (2005)

Hot Planet
Gahu
Rhythm Method (2003)

Videos

Spammerz

Live at The Golden Dawn, August 2015

Allana Goldsmith Group

Live at Auckland Jazz & Blues Club, September 2014

Home Brew

Live at York St Studios, May 2012