OUR DIRECTOR
Johnny Summers, Director and Founder of the Calgary Jazz Orchestra, is a professionally trained vocalist, trumpeter, arranger and composer. For more information visit www.johnnysummers.com
“Sound is the same as a painter’s palette. Our goal when performing is to paint incredible pictures with the variety of colours that we have at our disposal. To create an acoustic picture is art for the moment – the music is more emotional and resonates with the audience.”
-Johnny Summers, Director, Calgary Jazz Orchestra
MISSION
To advance the public's appreciation of the arts by providing high-quality musical performances in public places and to advance education by providing musical instruction to musicians of all ability levels.
OUR arrangements
All arrangements and compositions are unique creations by Johnny Summers, and various other members of the orchestra, and more great musicians. As none of the concerts contain pre-purchased or published music, the audience is guaranteed a unique and fresh experience like none-other with each performance.
All arrangements by the CJO are available for purchase for your professional orchestra, or can be re-arranged for your community orchestra or high school band. Please contact the CJO for more information.
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Vision
The Calgary Jazz Orchestra Society popularizes jazz by producing professional and accessible jazz orchestra performances and educational opportunities for a growing and appreciative audience in Calgary and beyond.
The story
Calgary is a vibrant, cultural city that embraces the arts, and encourages professional musicianship. However, one major component was lacking: Calgarians needed a Jazz Orchestra, and Calgary’s Jazz musicians needed performance opportunities and a place to grow professionally.
This void was recognized, and the Calgary Jazz Orchestra was established in 2004.
Johnny, Director of the Orchestra, hand-picked a group of the best of the best jazz artists for the 16-24 piece orchestra he leads with his trumpet. These musicians are professionally trained, world-class performers with over 300 years of combined experience. This is a very special Calgary Jazz band.
OUR MUSICIANS
There are so many skilled musicians in our area that we try to treat our group as a collective, to try and include all of the best players as much as we can. Our fantastic players will be listed here. Look for their personal projects and support them wherever they perform. Most of these fine musicians are also available for private lessons and more. Feel free to contact us if you are interested in studying or having a selection of these players play at your event.
About Calgary Jazz Orchestra SOCIETY
The CJO Society has evolved into a cultural institution that enriches the city's cultural landscape through its captivating performances, educational initiatives, and contributions to the world of jazz music. The CJO's story exemplifies how a shared passion, dedication, and desire to create something remarkable can lead to the establishment of an enduring musical legacy.
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