VANCOUVER JAZZ ORCHESTRA MEETS BRIAN CHARETTE - CD RELEASE

Sun, Dec 07

Established in 2022, the Vancouver Jazz Orchestra (VJO) has quickly become a prominent fixture in the Vancouver music scene. Their repertoire spans a wide range of styles, from classic big band standards to contemporary compositions, with an eye towards not only highlighting Vancouver’s rich musical past, but connecting that legacy to new works and future voices of the music. The VJO is also unique in its commitment to diversity and inclusion of a wide range of local artists through rotating personnel from one concert to the next. In this way, the VJO is inclusive of not only the many exemplary, established professionals in town, but also of the up-and-coming talent we value so much. VJO has already commissioned new works and performed with some of the biggest names in Jazz, including saxophonist Seamus Blake, trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, and organist Brian Charette. Perhaps most importantly, we have provided ongoing mentorship and performance opportunities to young artists through the annual scholarship competition, the Youth Jazz Orchestra, and the VJO itself; all working together to pave the way for a vibrant future for Vancouver’s jazz scene. Their debut recording is an example of these commitments, with a band comprised of both young and “experienced” musicians, playing music composed or arranged by Vancouver artists. Veteran composers such as Fred Stride, Jill Townsend, Brad Turner and Bill Coon are joined by new voices (or new to big band repertoire) including Sharon Minemoto, Daniel Hersog, Chris Berner, Steve Kaldestad and James Danderfer. Jill Townsend’s arrangement of the late, great Ross Taggart’s Don’t Call Before 10 deserves special mention as a heartfelt tribute to one of Vancouver’s most soulful and swinging musicians. We are also honoured to feature some remarkable guests on this album. The great New York organist Brian Charette brings energy, soul, and a remarkable ability to both drive and support the band. Trombonist Andy Hunter—renowned for his work with Germany’s WDR Big Band—brought his artistry to the project during a year-long stay in Vancouver and local legend Brad Turner, as always, delivers inspired, masterful performances. Having renowned international artists serves not only to build connections with other communities, but also to elevate the status of our fantastic musicians here at home.