WE ARE THE RENO JAZZ ORCHESTRA

THE RENO JAZZ ORCHESTRA IS A 501 (c)(3) NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
Reno Jazz Orchestra Band Members

We're Keeping the Big Band Sound Alive and Kicking

For the Reno Jazz Orchestra, it's simple: we're all about that classic big band sound. There's nothing like the thrill of 17 musicians hitting their stride for a packed house. That energy, that wall of sound - pure magic.

If you're into jazz and that iconic big band vibe, Reno's the place to be. Seriously, our city has a real legacy with this music, and you could argue the big band tradition is our strongest suit. This deep love for the music has turned Reno into a magnet for top-tier talent. Back in the day, when Reno was buzzing with casino action, they built these amazing, intimate showrooms downtown specifically for big band shows. Think glitz, glamour, and incredible music. Reno even boasted the world's largest stage at one point! Some of those legendary venues are still around, making live gigs extra special. But no matter the spot, whether it's a historic gem or a modern venue, the demand for killer big band jazz is still strong, and we live for playing to our awesome fans.

The RJO is also seriously invested in the next generation. Reno gets the importance of education, and being so close to a university with a top-notch jazz program means we've got a lot of educators in our ranks.

The city of Reno has a legitimate spot in jazz history, in music history, period. We're building on a very rich foundation.

Ultimately, the RJO is about nurturing our cultural heritage - specifically, keeping jazz alive, supporting jazz education, and celebrating the ongoing story of jazz culture. As musicians, as an orchestra, our goal is to make that happen. That means not just rocking out on stage, but also running impactful educational programs like our annual "Jazz in the Schools." We're in a cool position because the big band isn't just some old-school entertainment - though it's definitely fun to play and hear! It's a true American art form with a real place in our history, and that makes it totally worth pursuing.

Our mission is to keep the appreciation for jazz music and its history growing. We want our performances and educational efforts to spark musical inspiration, leading to a continuous stream of talented local musicians who bring those smooth sounds to everyone.

Honestly, the sheer joy of playing for an enthusiastic crowd keeps us coming back. And seeing our student musicians blossom into professional artists? That's incredibly rewarding. We're dedicated to boosting the love for jazz music and culture right here in northern Nevada. And what better way to do that than by playing the music and making it happen?

Thanks for your support - we couldn't do it without you!