Get ready for a full-throttle celebration of swing, soul, and sizzling solos as three local big bands take over Fed Square for Big Band Saturday — a free, open-air concert on the opening weekend of the Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

From the soaring brass of Australia’s premier Air Force Big Band, steeped in the rich traditions of the swing era, to the fresh energy of the Melbourne Youth Jazz Orchestra, and the Melbourne Conservatorium Big Band directed by trumpet master Mat Jodrell, this is a day of jazz that spans generations and styles.

Bring along the whole family and get into the groove.