Album Notes

The Cleveland Jazz Orchestra has a rich history of performing repertory and contemporary big band jazz for almost 25 years. Through the years the band members may have changed, but the commitment to the art form has not. Under the artistic direction of Gary Scott, Roland Paolucci and now Jack Schantz, the CJO has cemented its reputation locally, nationally and internationally. Performing with jazz legends Arturo Sandoval, Clark Terry, Tony Bennett, Mel Torme, Jiggs Whigham and Bob Brookmeyer, the CJO continues to attract the biggest names in the business. Tributes to Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Count Basie and Stan Kenton have kept alive that classic big band sound, while performances with John Hollenbeck, John Fedchock, Ed Partyka and Maria Schneider have showcased more contemporary writers. The CJO isn’t made up of just great players however; we have a wealth of writing and arranging talent as well. Compositions and arrangements from Paul Ferguson, David Morgan, Chas Baker and Rich Shanklin are part and parcel of the “CJO sound.” Going forward our Bop Stop Concert Series and Education Outreach Program will be critical building blocks on which we build our future. It’s certainly an exciting time in our history. Here’s to the next 25 years.