The Reno Youth Jazz Orchestra
The best young jazz players in the Reno-Sparks-Carson-Tahoe communities.
What's coming up
All events
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It's Time to Audition!
The Reno Youth Jazz Orchestra welcomes 6th-12th grade musicians to audition. This year we will have 2 groups: Reno Youth Jazz Orchestra 1 and Reno Youth Jazz Orchestra 2.
Auditions will be held September 21st-25th at the Note Able Therapy Services building from 5pm-8pm each day.
Audition Fee: $10By participating in RYJO groups, students learn teamwork, preparation, dedication, performance techniques, professionalism, ear training, improvisation and the jazz tradition. Students also build community while working with students from other schools. Find out more at the RYJO Homepage.
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RJO Music Director
Greg Johnson
Dr. Greg Johnson is an emerging force in jazz, recognized for his distinctive saxophone sound and diverse compositional style spanning jazz, classical, and popular music. As a sought-after saxophonist, he has performed with jazz legends and toured with major pop and rock artists, appearing on over 40 recordings. Now, the Reno Jazz Orchestra has appointed him as their new Music Director.
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Discover Jazz Workshop
The Discover Jazz Workshop
taught by Dylan Coleman-Tunstall and guest instructors
Eight Saturday morning sessions: 09/26/2026 - 11/14/2026In this 8-week program, students work on rhythmic exercises, ear training, jazz tunes, listening, improvisation, and chords and scales. These important skills will set them up for success for their school ensembles and open them up to opportunities to audition for local honor groups or the Reno Youth Jazz Orchestra.
The culminating project will be two live performances.
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RYJO Music Director
Nichole Heglund
Originally from Denver, Colorado, Nichole Heglund moved to Reno in 2003 and has since become the new Music Director of The Reno Youth Jazz Orchestra. A dedicated music educator, she has taught at various Reno schools and currently teaches at Verdi and Veterans Elementary. She holds degrees from the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Nevada, Reno. We welcome Nichole as the RYJO's Music Director.
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Immerse Yourself!
Welcome to the fourth season of the Quintessence Music Series! Enjoy four concerts celebrating jazz’s rich diversity—from timeless classics to fresh, modern interpretations—featuring world‑class artists in Northern Nevada. Become a Member to support live jazz, strengthen our community’s musical tradition, and enjoy great seats with reduced fees. Join us for four unforgettable afternoons of music, artistry, and inspiration.
Right now membership packages with premium seats are available with special discounts. A membership package of all four concerts offers 20% savings!
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Education Director
Dr. David Brennan
Dr. David Brennan, a woodwind specialist and new member of the Reno Jazz Orchestra, is committed to giving back after years of mentorship. As Education Director, he shares his experience to help young musicians grow. He believes jazz is a bold, beautiful art form that demands respect for its lineage and the written music, calling musicians to unite in creating moments that challenge the mind and inspire awe.
From the orchestra
All articlesAbout the Reno Jazz Orchestra
The Reno Jazz Orchestra has been based in Northern Nevada for over 25 years and was formed by musicians who performed and traveled the world with acts such as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Elvis Presley, Natalie Cole, Luciano Pavarotti and other legendary performers. The tradition of jazz excellence set by the founders continues today with jazz professors, educators and graduates from the University of Nevada, Reno, jazz studies program setting new performance standards.
The EL Cord Foundation, Nevada Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, Art Works, Thunder Rand & Co., Tanglewood Productions, City of Reno, Music, Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation, J Resort, GPS Wealth Advisors and the RJO Circle of Friends, Band Partners and Band Fans support the Reno Jazz Orchestra.