JAZZ@FIRST: SOMETHING TO LIVE FOR - JANELLE REICHMAN PERFORMS BILLY STRAYHORN

Billy Strayhorn wrote some of the Duke Ellington Orchestra’s most important pieces, including Duke’s famous theme “Take the A Train.” In honor of Women’s History Month, joining the Phil DeGreg Trio was virtuoso clarinetist and saxophonist Janelle Reichman. Janelle performs regularly with DIVA, the award-winning NYC all-female big band, and has guested with Jazz at Lincoln Center. Guests enjoyed an unforgettable afternoon of music as Janelle and musicians from the CCJO performed some of the greatest compositions in jazz.

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: WE GOTTA SHOUT: GOSPEL MEETS JAZZ

In 1963 the legendary Clara Ward and her gospel singers entered the studio with the equally acclaimed Dukes of Dixieland to record an album which would break down cultural and musical barriers to become an instant classic! Joined once again by an all-star gospel choir led by A. Michael Cunningham, the CCJO revisited its own unique adaptation of this music for a truly special event.​

Opening Act: The Little Miami Select Women's Chorale - Artistic Director Sarah J. Baker

LET FREEDOM SWING!

The Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra brought our program Let Freedom Swing! to Middletown! The CCJO is proud to be the only regional organization officially sanctioned and trained by Jazz at Lincoln Center to provide this groundbreaking program. CCJO artistic director Eric Lechliter along with a CCJO jazz quartet led the audience in an interactive and informative musical presentation about the history of jazz and how it ties specifically into the history of democracy in our country. 

JAZZ@FIRST: ON THE SAME WAVELENGTH - PHIL DEGREG + JOE LUKASIK

Phil DeGreg and clarinetist Joe Lukasik have been musical collaborators and friends for over 20 years. This powerful duo performed favorites that range from early jazz to the Great American Songbook to choro, “the New Orleans jazz of Brazil.” Attendees enjoyed exceptional musical communication and good cheer as these two virtuosos held jazz court at First Unitarian Church.

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: FUNKY CHRISTMAS, FEATURING MICAH DAVIS

This Christmas, Santa's got a brand new bag! Throughout his illustrious career, James Brown - the Godfather of Soul - recorded several holiday albums filled with funk, fun and yuletide cheer. The CCJO unveiled all new arrangements of this music and other festive holiday favorites.

​​

Opening Act: Walnut Hills High School Jazz Ensemble

JAZZ@FIRST: "THE SOUND OF MUSIC" WITH CINCINNATI YOUTH CHOIR

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Academy Award winning musical for Best Picture, “The Sound of Music,” is beloved across generations. The Phil DeGreg Trio partnered with members of the award-winning Cincinnati Youth Choir directed by Robyn Lana on a concert that was perfect for the whole family!

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: SAVING OUR LOVE FOR THEM: A TRIBUTE TO NANCY WILSON AND DORIS DAY, FEATURING MANDY GAINES

In 2018 and 2019, the music world lost two true icons of song: the great Nancy Wilson and Cincinnati's own Doris Day. The CCJO celebrated these revered artists with the help of Cincinnati treasure and international vocal phenomenon Mandy Gaines in memory of two of the greatest voices in music history!

​

Opening Act: Central State University Big Band (Nancy Wilson's alma mater)

JAZZ@FIRST: 1959: THE YEAR THAT CHANGED JAZZ

In the history of jazz recordings, there’s never been a year like 1959. Phil DeGreg assembled a killer small group to perform some of these landmark works like Miles Davis’ “Kind of Blue,” John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps” and Dave Brubeck’s “Time Out.” It may be their 60th anniversary, but audiences at First Unitarian Church heard these works LIVE and as fresh as ever.

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: CCJO GOES TO THE MOVIES

The CCJO celebrated The Redmoor's history as a movie theater with jazz from the silver screen. Audiences heard exciting arrangements new and old from some of cinema's most legendary films and composers. From Rocky to Mission: Impossible to The Magnificent Seven to The Pink Panther, there will be something for everyone.

​

Opening Act: Joining us to open the show was Jazz @ Dusk.

JAZZ@FIRST: BYRON STRIPLING: SATCHMO AND FRIENDS

Internationally acclaimed jazz trumpet virtuoso and entertainer Byron Stripling had the leading role in the Broadway musicals “Satchmo” and “From Second Avenue to Broadway.” Byron came to Cincinnati to play and sing the music of Louis Armstrong and his contemporaries as we saluted America’s original genius of jazz.

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

JAZZ@FIRST: AN AFTERNOON IN BRAZIL WITH BRUNO MANGUEIRA + FRIENDS

Brazilian guitar virtuoso Bruno Mangueira returned to the CCJO Jazz@First stage to perform with Phil DeGreg! Guests enjoyed an afternoon showcasing South American colors and rhythms with stunningly beautiful and jazzy works from Bruno’s latest project that retained their Brazilian roots.

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: CCJO MEETS SOUL: RAY CHARLES & EARTH, WIND & FIRE

“Let’s Groove” as the CCJO once again rocked the Redmoor with soulful new arrangements of music by Ray Charles and Earth, Wind & Fire. We dared guests to sit still as the CCJO married jazz with R&B, funk and soul in high-energy, horn-fueled arrangements of songs including “Georgia,” “Sing a Song” and “September!”

​

Opening Act: Joining us to open the show was the Cincinnati Youth Jazz Orchestra, directed by Jenn Grantham.

​

Music Sponsor: Thompson Hine LLP

CCJO @ ARTSWAVE DAYS: SOUL OF THE ARTS

The CCJO was excited to participate in ArtsWave Days with a small ensemble performing at Soul of the Arts. Audiences came out to Cincinnati's School for Creative and Performing Arts on April 13 at 6pm to hear the CCJO sextet perform a set of brand new arrangements of Earth, Wind & Fire charts that were a fitting preview to our Redmoor season finale concert on April 18! 

JAZZ@FIRST: MERCY, MERCY, MERCY! THE MUSIC OF CANNONBALL ADDERLEY FEATURING CHARLIE YOUNG

Alto saxophonist Charlie Young is perhaps better known as a quintessential artist’s artist because of his tremendous talents in both section and soloistic playing. Throughout his career, Charlie has shared the stage with everyone from Ella Fitzgerald to Stevie Wonder. Trumpeter Mike Wade joined Charlie and the Phil DeGreg Trio as they performed music of the Cannonball Adderley Quintet. Known for blending jazz, gospel and funk, Charlie and Mike helped make this a high-spirited afternoon of music.

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: DOMINATION: WHEN CANNONBALL ADDERLEY MET OLIVER NELSON, FEATURING CHARLIE YOUNG

In 1965, alto saxophonist Cannonball Adderley joined forces with arranger Oliver Nelson to create the renowned album Domination. Count Basie and Duke Ellington alumnus, saxophonist Charlie Young, joined the big band to bring that historic recording to life through his impeccable musicianship.

​

Opening Act: Walnut Hills High School Jazz Band, directed by Andrew Peoples

CAMPBELL COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY: LET FREEDOM SWING!

The CCJO led a performance and program called Let Freedom Swing! which explored the relationship between jazz and democracy, creating conversations about the parallels between these two great American traditions.

JAZZ@FIRST: TRIO CON BRIO: A TRIBUTE TO NAT KING COLE FEATURING ANDY BROWN, PAUL KELLER AND PHIL DEGREG

Chicago guitarist Andy Brown and Ann Arbor bassist Paul Keller joined Phil DeGreg for a tribute to Nat King Cole. Andy and Paul have played with artists including Scott Hamilton, Warren Vache and Diana Krall. This trio con brio breathed new life into standards and shared original works with joy, beauty and chops galore!

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: MOANIN': THE MUSIC OF MINGUS WITH LAUREN SEVIAN

A member of the Charles Mingus Big Band for 15 years, New York baritone saxophonist Lauren Sevian is one of the leading women in jazz music today. Lauren joined the CCJO for a concert saluting the legendary bassist, composer and arranger.

​

Opening Act: Joining us to open the show was the Eastside Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Aaron Todahl.

BIG BAND: JINGLE JAZZ: NUTCRACKER REMIX + MORE

Now THIS is how Cincinnati jazz lovers kick off the holidays! Featuring works ranging from Count Basie’s “Jingle Bells” to classics like “White Christmas,” the CCJO ensured attendees' holidays were merry and bright. And back by popular demand, the “Cincinnati style” Nutcracker Remix brought back the program that audiences hailed as “guaranteed to become a 21st century classic” and “A tribute to Ellington and Peter Illych worthy of 2017.“ It was the perfect appetizer to a holiday arts buffet!

​

Opening Act: Joining us to open the show was the Greater Cincinnati Youth Jazz Collaborative.

JAZZ@FIRST: A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS, FEATURING HAL MELIA

It’s hard to think of Christmas without the joyful, swinging and heartfelt soundtrack of the TV special that has become part of America’s holiday tradition: A Charlie Brown Christmas. The Phil DeGreg Trio, along with saxophone and flute master Hal Melia, revisited the Vince Guaraldi classics and sprinkled in some other Christmas tunes of their own. This show was kid-friendly, a perfect afternoon to introduce young folks to jazz and improvisation. Guests enjoyed an afternoon of holiday cheer!

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: THE FIRST LADY OF SONG: ELLA AND THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK

Over 60 years ago, The First Lady of Song began a series of recordings that would be recognized as one of the most important in modern musical history. CCJO’s own Adia Dobbins JOINED the big band to tackle repertoire made famous by Ella Fitzgerald and her series of recordings from the Great American Songbook.

Opening Act: Joining us to open the show WAS the Campbell Jr. High School Jazz band, directed by Trish Torline.

JAZZ@FIRST: WONDERJAZZ: THE MUSIC OF STEVIE WONDER, FEATURING BRAD MYERS

The incredible compositions of 20th century pop icon Stevie Wonder were on display as the Phil DeGreg Trio and guitarist Brad Myers reinterpreted Stevie’s classics in an afternoon of rockin’ jazz. Guests enjoyed new takes on the songs that garnered 25 Grammy Awards, including “You Are the Sunshine of My Life,” “Don’t  You Worry ‘Bout a Thing” and “Overjoyed.”

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

JAZZ@FIRST: OUT OF THIS WORLD: AN AFTERNOON WITH SCOTT ROBINSON

Scott Robinson is in a class by himself. He not only plays a dizzying array of jazz styles, but does so on a dizzying array of instruments – many of which are unique only to him! Alongside the incredible Phil DeGreg Trio, this scientist and jazz musician brought an out of this world concert to the intimate environs of First Unitarian Church!

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: THE ONE-MAN BAND: MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST SCOTT ROBINSON

Fifty and counting. That’s the number of different instruments Scott Robinson has recorded on over the past 34 years, including clarinet, flute, trumpet and every type of saxophone ever made. Guests enjoyed this one-of-a-kind musician on the CCJO big band stage as he opened our season with his eclectic style of jazz!

​

Opening Act: Joining us to open the show was the Colerain High School Jazz Ensemble.

IT’S COMMONLY JAZZ SERIES PRESENTS: CCJO FEATURING ADIA DOBBINS

The Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra showcased the amazing musical talents of our big band with our fabulous vocalist Adia Dobbins in the beautiful environs of Eden Park. Guests joined us for an evening of straight-ahead, swinging jazz! For more information about the series: www.itscommonlyjazz.com.

JAZZ@FIRST: BRASILIA - THE COLORS OF SAMBA-JAZZ

Phil DeGreg’s samba-jazz band Brasilia has been a lively presence on the Cincinnati scene for over a decade. Their repertoire includes songs in various Brazilian styles: samba, bossa-nova, choro, baião and frevo. Brasilia plays works by Antonio Carlos Jobim, Edu Lobo, João Donato, Hermeto Pascoal and others. In this band, South American rhythms merge effortlessly with fluid jazz improvisation.

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

CAMPBELL COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY: BEATLEJAZZ, FEATURING KIM PENSYL

John Lennon and Paul McCartney created unforgettable melodies that helped define music of the 1960s. Trumpeter Kim Pensyl joined the Phil DeGreg Trio in reimagining some of their classic songs as instrumental jazz pieces. The arrangements lend a new jazz twist to familiar melodies.

BIG BAND: CCJO MEETS BOWIE

Ground control to Major Bowie fans… We rocked out with the CCJO, Rob Parton and vocalist Adia Dobbins in a tribute to the music of a contemporary rock icon David Bowie. The CCJO tackled some of Bowie’s most creative charts including "Life on Mars," "Let's Dance" and “Space Oddity.”

​

Opening Act: Joining us to open the show were the Walton-Verona High School Jazz Cats.

​

The concert was sponsored by avid jazz lover and Queen City convert Rebecca Knight.

JAZZ@FIRST: BENNY RIDES AGAIN - THE MUSIC OF THE BENNY GOODMAN TRIO

Clarinetist Benny Goodman was the rock star of the swing era, known as the leader of one of the great dance bands. But his virtuosic work with his quartet featuring pianist Teddy Wilson and vibist Lionel Hampton was stunning and groundbreaking. Clarinetist Joe Lukasik brought these gorgeous arrangements to life.

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

SORG OPERA HOUSE: THE DIZZY GILLESPIE CENTENNIAL, FEATURING ADIA DOBBINS

The CCJO took our Dizzy concert on the road with our first-ever performance at the newly reopened Sorg Opera House in Middletown! Dizzy Gillespie was a visionary architect of bebop, a peerless trumpet virtuoso, and a gifted educator, dancer and raconteur. The CCJO dug deep into the musical world of this jazz icon. As much a revolution as it was a movement, bebop marked a decisive line between old and new, ushering in the modern era of jazz.

BIG BAND: THE SOUND OF THE BASKERVILLES: A SHERLOCK HOLMES SUITE, FEATURING ALAN BARNES

It’s elementary, my dear Watson. You simply must partake in this evening of mystery and intrigue at The Redmoor. The CCJO will welcome London’s own Alan Barnes as the evening’s composer, lead soloist and narrator whom the Guardian noted “could be a comedian, if jazz every fails him.” This musical/literary performance will explore the characters, atmosphere and stories of Sherlock Holmes by means of readings, commentary and a set of Alan’s brilliant original jazz compositions. Alan is a prolific international performer, composer, arranger, bandleader and touring soloist whose range and brilliance have made him a “first call” for studio and live work since his arrival on the scene more than 30 years ago.

JAZZ@FIRST: ENGLISH SAXOPHONIST ALAN BARNES: JAZZ FROM ACROSS THE POND

Alan Barnes, one of Europe’s best known jazz saxophonists and arrangers, makes a rare visit from the U.K. Alan is one of the funniest and most entertaining jazz musicians on the planet. Prepare to be charmed as he interprets tunes from the Great American Songbook with style, virtuosity and humor.

​

Jazz@First Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: THE DIZZY GILLESPIE CENTENNIAL, FEATURING ADIA DOBBINS

Dizzy Gillespie was a visionary architect of bebop, a peerless trumpet virtuoso, and a gifted educator, dancer and raconteur. The CCJO dug deep into the musical world of this jazz icon. As much a revolution as it was a movement, bebop marked a decisive line between old and new, ushering in the modern era of jazz.

JAZZ@FIRST: FINGER-POPPING - THE MUSIC OF HORACE SILVER, FEATURING MIKE WADE AND BRENT GALLAHER

Pianist/composer Horace Silver pioneered the “hard-bop” style of jazz in the 1950s, creating great melodies and arrangements that are soulful, harmonically beautiful and frequently funky. Two of Cincinnati’s best jazz soloists – saxophonist Brent Gallaher and trumpeter Mike Wade – brought flair and personality to this joyful music.

​

Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: NUTCRACKER REMIX: CCJO + FRIENDS CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS, FEATURING ADIA DOBBINS

Guests swung in the holidays with the CCJO as they enjoyed world premiere arrangements of Tchaikvosky’s Nutcracker written by members of the Orchestra. From Funk to Swing, these fresh, original orchestrations reflected styles sure to please. The group also welcomed the mesmerizing Adia Dobbins back to the stage as they premiered contemporary arrangements of familiar songs both sacred and secular, from Count Basie’s “Jingle Bells” to classics like “White Christmas” and “Zat You Santa Claus?”

JAZZ@FIRST: MELODIOUS MONK, FEATURING KIM PENSYL

People tend to remember pianist Thelonious Monk as the eccentric “high priest of bebop” featured on the cover of Time Magazine in the ‘50s. But his mark as a composer is indelible, and his strong melodies are constantly re-interpreted in every generation and in many styles. Kim Pensyl brought his lovely, poignant flugelhorn sound to Monk’s music in this wonderful acoustic setting.

​

Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: A BIG PHAT CONCERT: STUDIO & JAZZ LEGEND, TRUMPETER WAYNE BERGERON

The CCJO welcomed to Cincinnati one of the most sought-after musicians in the world: trumpeter Wayne Bergeron. Whether it was as lead trumpeter for Maynard Ferguson or on over 350 TV and motion picture soundtracks, Wayne’s music can be heard around the world. In the studio, Wayne has recorded with artists as diverse as Green Day, Michael Bublé, Diana Krall and Earth Wind and Fire. You can hear his trumpet playing on soundtracks including La La Land, Moana, Frozen and Despicable Me, as well as at the Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, American Idol and the Grammy Awards.

JAZZ@FIRST: CONRAD HERWIG: VIRTUOSIC JAZZ TROMBONE

Three time Grammy-nominated musician Conrad Herwig is acknowledged as one of the most profound and virtuosic trombonists in the world. He has performed and recorded jazz greats including Eddie Palmieri, Jack DeJohnette, Frank Sinatra and countless others. Audiences enjoyed his creativity, sound and fluidity as he played his own music and contemporary arrangements of familiar songs.

​

​Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: THE LATIN SIDE OF HANCOCK, SHORTER + MORE, FEATURING TROMBONIST CONRAD HERWIG

For our opening night, we welcomed Grammy-nominated, NYC-based, jazz trombonist Conrad Herwig to the Queen City! Conrad, considered one of the world’s most complete jazz musicians, sits atop both the performing and jazz education fields and has an abundance of composer and arranger credits as well. A master of the Latin and Latin Jazz genres, Conrad has released 20 recordings as a leader in addition to contributing to nearly 200 other recording sessions with some of the most notable artists in jazz. He has performed and recorded with artists including Miles Davis, Joe Henderson, Eddie Palmieri, Tito Puente, Frank Sinatra, Joe Lovano and Tom Harrell.

JAZZ@FIRST: THE MUSIC OF CHICK COREA, FEATURING RUSTY BURGE

Chick Corea is one of the most influential jazz pianists and creative jazz composers of the last 60 years. Vibist Rusty Burge along with the Phil DeGreg Trio explored his wide range of rhythmically intriguing and melodically colorful compositions, many of which have become jazz standards.

​

​Series Sponsor: Al Harris

IT’S COMMONLY JAZZ SERIES PRESENTS: CCJO FEATURING ADIA DOBBINS

A beautiful summer evening free performance that showcased the amazing musical talents of the CCJO and vocalist Adia Dobbins.

BIG BAND: COME TOGETHER: A CONCERT OF GOSPEL AND JAZZ

Come Together paid tribute to a memorable moment where the worlds of gospel and jazz came together for a March 1963 recording that joined the legendary Dukes of Dixieland with Clara Ward and Her Gospel Singers. This landmark recording had never been performed for a live audience and included 11 contemporary versions of the gospel songs on the record arranged by Eric Lechliter.

​

The CCJO was joined by vocalists representing over a dozen church choirs from around the Tri-State. Leading the ensemble was A. Michael Cunningham. Adrian serves as the minister of music at New Jerusalem Baptist Church and has previously led rehearsals for the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra Classical Roots concert Community Mass Choir.

​

​Concert Sponsors: ArtsWave, Al Harris, and Matt & Holly Kraick

JAZZ@FIRST: REMEMBERING KENNY POOLE, FEATURING ANDY BROWN

The concert celebrated the memory of Cincinnati jazz guitar legend Kenny Poole, a nationally recognized master of mainstream and swing repertoire. The Phil DeGreg Trio was joined by amazing Chicago guitarist Andy Brown, a dedicated student of Kenny’s music. Additionally there was a display of memorabilia about Kenny.

​

Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: CCJO MEETS PRINCE, FEATURING ADIA DOBBINS

“Let’s Go Crazy:” the CCJO featured brand new arrangements of music by the legendary artist Prince featuring incredible vocalist Adia Dobbins!

Concert Sponsors: Ryan Mitchell, LeAnne Anklan and Matt Anklan

JAZZ@FIRST: JELLY ROLL MORTON REVISTED, FEATURING THE BUFFALO RIDGE JAZZ BAND

Jelly Roll Morton was the first great jazz composer, and his melodies and arrangements helped define early New Orleans jazz. Phil DeGreg was joined by the Buffalo Ridge Jazz Band to play this joyful classic music that dates back to the beginning of jazz.

​

Series Sponsor: Al Harris

JAZZ@FIRST: A TRIBUTE TO STAN GETZ, FEATURING HARRY ALLEN

Internationally renowned tenor saxophone star Harry Allen joined the Phil DeGreg Trio for an afternoon of great American melodies, as well as some of the Jobim music that Getz brought to the USA during the bossa nova movement of the 1960’s. Harry has over 30 albums to his credit, and tours regularly with all the jazz greats like Scott Hamilton, Ken Peplowski, and many others.

​

Series Sponsor: Al Harris

CCJO + CAC: ART + IMPROV: NEAREST NEIGHBORS

In response to the Nearest Neighbor exhibition, the CCJO and the CAC presented a musical response to the art. The exhibition crosses the lines between commercialism and artistic expression in photography. Learn more about the exhibition here.

The newly arranged and composed music was inspired by the photographic works in the exhibit, playing with both formal and abstract structures in world premiere jazz charts by CCJO director of education and trumpeter Matthew Anklan. Steven Matijcio, CAC curator, and Matthew shared a presentation that ties the music and art together surrounded by the artwork in the gallery. Audiences heard music ranging from familiar standards to free form improvised works that directly reflect the dichotomy of the photographer and his pieces.
 

Concert Sponsors: Macy’s, ArtsWave

BIG BAND: THE SOUND: STAN GETZ REVISITED, FEATURING HARRY ALLEN

Internationally acclaimed saxophonist Harry Allen joined the CCJO in this tribute to the great Stan Getz. The music was melodic and swinging, with styles ranging from the thundering big band ensemble to the gentle grace of the bossa nova. We enjoyed having this true virtuoso here in the Queen City!

JAZZ@FIRST: BRUNO MANGUEIRA QUARTET, FEATURING BRUNO MANGUEIRA

Guitarist Bruno Mangueira, one of the extraordinary new voices in Brazilian jazz, returned to Cincinnati. He performed his hauntingly beautiful compositions, along with some classic Brazilian melodies, with the Phil DeGreg Trio.

​

Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: NIGHT IN BRASIL, FEATURING BRUNO MANGUEIRA

Brazilian guitarist Bruno Mangueira presented the Cincinnati premiere of his exquisite compositions scored for jazz orchestra. The CCJO captured the rhythms and colors of Brazil, featuring Bruno’s hauntingly beautiful guitar playing.

​

Concert Sponsors: Centauro – ON and Ohio National Financial Services

JAZZ@FIRST: BEATLEJAZZ, FEATURING KIM PENSYL

John Lennon and Paul McCartney created unforgettable melodies that helped define music of the 1960s. Trumpeter Kim Pensyl joined the Phil DeGreg Trio in reimagining some of their classic songs as instrumental jazz pieces. The arrangements lend a new jazz twist to familiar melodies.

Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: BIG BAND VOCAL DIVAS, FEATURING KRISTY PARTON AND LESLIE BEUKELMAN

Celebrating the music and song stylings of Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Rosemary Clooney and other American music divas.

JAZZ@FIRST: THE MUSIC OF BILL EVANS, FEATURING RICK VANMATRE

One of the most influential modern jazz pianists, Bill Evans and his trio were revered the world over for his lyrical and harmonically lush pianism; he made the piano sing like no other. Evans mostly performed jazz standards, but his compositions were exquisite and have become classics in the jazz world. Saxophonist Rick VanMatre joined the Phil DeGreg Trio to interpret these musical gems.

​

Series Sponsor: Al Harris

BIG BAND: STAN, WOODY, BUDDY AND JOHN: AN EVENING WITH JOHN VON OHLEN, FEATURING JOHN VON OHLEN

Cincinnati’s own John Von Ohlen joined the CCJO in a night of big band drummer feature charts by Stan, Woody, Buddy and John! Audiences favorites included Malaguena, Stompin’ at the Savoy, Big Swing Face and the West Side Story Suite.

JAZZ@FIRST: AN AFTERNOON OF COLE PORTER, FEATURING LYNNE SCOTT

Cole Porter was one of the genius composers of the Great American Songbook, who created songs of exquisitely crafted melodies married to lyrics of uncommon wit. The Phil DeGreg Trio and vocalist Lynne Scott performed jazz arrangements of some of his best songs, including infrequently heard verse introductions.

​

Series Sponsor: Al Harris

CINCINNATI CHAMBER ORCHESTRA PRESENTS: SENSORY WINDS WITH THE CINCINNATI CHAMBER ORCHESTRA WIND QUINTET, MUSICIANS FROM THE CCJO AND SAXOPHONIST JAMES CARTER

From Puerto Rico to Paris, this program was a sumptuous mix of Latin American and French elegance, starring CCO winds and a jazz bassist and drummer from the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra along with saxophonist James Carter. The event began with a Cincinnati Art Museum tour curated by CCO music director candidate Sarah Ioannides that highlighted the visual elements of the performance pieces. Sensory Winds featured a cross-culture of music that moves effortlessly among the Jazz, Latin and Classical genres.

IT’S COMMONLY JAZZ SERIES PRESENTS: CCJO FEATURING CCM JAZZ FACULTY

A beautiful summer evening free performance showcasing the amazing musical talents of the CCJO.

CINCINNATI PARKS PRESENTS: AMERICAN SALUTE WITH THE CCJO, CINCINNATI CHAMBER ORCHESTRA AND CCM PREPARATORY DEPARTMENT

Musicians from the CCJO saluted the Red, White and Blue with our friends from the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra and the CCM Preparatory Department at American Salute.

SEVEN HILLS NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSES AND THE CARL LINDNER YMCA PRESENT: WEST END SPEAKS PLAN RELEASE CELEBRATION & JAZZ CONCERT WITH THE CCJO

The release of the West End Community Quality-of-Life Plan was celebrated with a jazz performance by CCJO of our Let Freedom Swing! program for the first time with the full 17-piece orchestra! Guests enjoyed dinner, refreshments and giveaways.

BIG BAND: A TRIBUTE TO FLUGGE AND PRICE

The music lived on as we celebrated the lives of two incredible Ohio composers/arrangers: Mark Flugge and Joseph Price. Columbus pianist Mark Flugge passed away in 2014 and Cincinnati’s own Joseph Price passed away in 2011. Flugge formerly served on the faculties of Eastman School of Music and Capital University. As a soloist, he performed with the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, Columbus Symphony and ProMusica Chamber Orchestra. Price wrote and arranged for top artists and arts organizations, including Wynton Marsalis, Harry Connick Jr., Doc Severinsen and the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra.

JAZZ@FIRST: TIME OUT: THE MUSIC OF DAVE BRUBECK

CCJO pianist Phil DeGreg kicked off the Orchestra’s new adult educational Sunday matinee series Jazz@First on Sunday, April 10 featuring saxophonist Rick VanMatre and The Phil DeGreg Trio and presented a program of music by one of the great American jazz pianists and composers, Dave Brubeck. Brubeck was considered to be one of the foremost proponents of cool jazz and the first composer to popularize the use of unusual time signatures and cross meters in his music, which are now common in all jazz-related genres today.

BIG BAND: CINCINNATI COMPOSERS' NIGHT

The ranks of the CCJO boast some of the region’s most accomplished and creative big band composers. We held our popular annual performance featuring our own talented writers – as well as many other talented Greater Cincinnati composers – showcasing beautiful contemporary jazz arrangements on Thursday, March 10.

ARTSWAVE PRESENTS: LET FREEDOM SWING!

Let Freedom Swing! is a narrated, interactive performance that explores the relationship between jazz and democracy, and creates conversations about the parallels between these two great American traditions. Musicians from the CCJO and educators from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music shared examples of featured artists, works and composers. After the session, attendees had the chance to meet the musicians and ask their own questions about the session topics, the music, and the instruments they saw on stage. Let Freedom Swing! is an engaging introduction to jazz and its role in the fabric of our nation for musicians and non-musicians alike!

BIG BAND: CCJO MEETS RADIOHEAD

Five Englishmen who developed their own unique sound, Radiohead was one of the mostinnovative and provocative bands of the 1990s and 2000s. For CCJO Meets Radiohead, the ensemble presented a cutting-edge concert intersecting the rock styles of Radiohead with jazz orchestra.

BIG BAND: JINGLE JAZZ: CHRISTMAS TIME IS HERE

We celebrated the season with the CCJO at our popular annual concert, Jingle Jazz. This holiday performance featured new arrangements of your favorite holiday classics, many of which were written by members of the CCJO. Also featured were selections from CCJO artistic director Rob Parton’s Big Band of Chicago album, Christmas Time is Here.

BIG BAND: A SINATRA CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

We celebrated the Centennial birthday of one of jazz music’s most iconic artists, Frank Sinatra with contemporary arrangements of your favorite charts made famous by “The Voice,” performed by Chicago vocal great Mark Madsen.

SYCAMORE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH PRESENTS: CCJO QUINTET CONCERT AT SYCAMORE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Great jazz a little north of the city! Members of the Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz orchestra brought an exciting new quintet to Sycamore Presbyterian Church in Mason, OH. The concert featured fun, accessible, original compositions and pieces that have stood the test of time. The concert was free and open to the public (free will donations supported The Loveland Initiative).

BIG BAND: LIKE IT IS: AN EVENING WITH TROMBONIST JOHN FEDCHOCK

The CCJO kicked off their first subscription series concert of the year, Like It Is: An Evening with John Fedchock. Grammy-nominated arranger and world-class trombonist John Fedchock joined the CCJO in a concert celebrating the release of his latest album, Like It Is. We were proud to bring to town an artist who is continuing to have a hand in guiding and shaping the direction of modern big band music.

WASHINGTON PARK PRESENTS: FRIDAY FUSION WITH THE CCJO AND KATHY WADE

The CCJO took the stage for the finale performance for Friday Fusion at Washington Park, complete with the vocal stylings of the inimitable Kathy Wade.

IT’S COMMONLY JAZZ SERIES PRESENTS: CCJO FEATURING CCM JAZZ FACULTY

A beautiful summer evening FREE performance that showcased the amazing musical talents of the acclaimed CCM Jazz Faculty and the CCJO.

BIG BAND: SUITE ELLINGTON

The CCJO presented a “suite” night of Ellington at the intimate Monastery Studio.

CLIFTON GASLIGHT BUSINESS DISTRICT PRESENTS: BIG NIGHT CLIFTON

Featured the CCJO Little Big Band in a free concert as part of the BIG NIGHT Clifton Concert Series.

BIG BAND: CINCINNATI COMPOSERS’ NIGHT

Featured pieces and arrangements by CCJO musicians, local jazz legends and some of the hottest emerging composers in jazz today.

BIG BAND: ALL ABOARD – BIG TRAIN BY WYNTON MARSALIS

It was “All aboard!” for a journey back to a time when the great road bands toured the country via rail, featured a full performance of Wynton Marsalis’ critically acclaimed “Big Train.”

THREE RIVERS JAZZ FESTIVAL PRESENTS: SHOWCASE CONCERT, FEATURING CCJO

The CCJO served as ensemble-in-residence for the first annual Three Rivers Jazz Festival and performed the evening’s Showcase Concert. The performance featured some of the day’s outstanding young soloists in a concert program that moves from the classics of the big band era to the standards of tomorrow.

BIG BAND: CCJO SESSION @ THE GREENWICH

The CCJO opened our extensive books for informal sessions at The Greenwich!