Come out and support live local music!
We are thrilled with the 2024/25 season and plan our concerts a year in advance. As a result occasionally an artist or concert theme may change. It’s the nature of jazz and we will always perform the best music with the best artists. Thank you for supporting the CJRO!
Enjoy the combined talent of the CJRO and Denver Gay Men's Chorus as we pay tribute to the Gershwin and the Harlem Renaissance jazz era. Selected music includes “You Make Me Feel So Young,” “Fascinatin’ Rhythm” and more.
Join the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra for an evening that is more than just a concert; it's a journey through the timeless classics and unforgettable moments that define the musical legacy of Nat King Cole and his daughter Natalie. From Robert Bernard Johnson’s velvet voice to Mary Louise Lee’s soulful artistry, this performance is a celebration of family, love, and the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and souls.
Join the CJRO quartet for an evening of timeless elegance as you enjoy the sounds of Nat King Cole and daughter Natalie for an unforgettable evening of music and memories. From Robert Bernard Johnson's velvet voice to Mary Louise Lee's soulful artistry, their performance celebrates family, love, and the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and souls.
This performance is part of Denver Jazz Fest and is presented by Denver Jazz and the Gift of Jazz.
This month the Salon will bring a spotlight on the piano and its rich history in the jazz movement. Jazz piano is a fascinating journey through the evolution of music, from its roots in ragtime in the late 19th century to its modern-day incarnations that include artists like Chick Corea, Harry Connick Jr., and Jon Batiste. Our featured guest will be the critically acclaimed pianist Eric Gunnison and will be moderated by CJRO Founder and Executive Director, Art Bouton. You will have the opportunity to hear Eric play and share some of his vast knowledge on the history of the jazz piano. The audience is encouraged to engage with Eric and Art with questions and comments.
Eric Gunnison has led a distinguished career during which he has established himself as one of the mainstays of Denver’s vibrant jazz scene as an acclaimed pianist and educator. He has also attracted a global following performing, touring, and recording with internationally renowned jazz artists including vocal sensations, Carmen McRae, and Roberta Gambarini. Eric is committed to the development of the next generation of jazz musicians, and his enthusiasm and passion for jazz can be heard in his performances and educational endeavors alike. Eric has been part of the CJRO for twelve years and is a fan favorite for his brilliant keyboard expertise!
About the Jazz Salon: Immerse yourself in the world of jazz with our new weekday salon series, a celebration of music, culture, and community. Curated by CJRO Artistic Director Drew Zaremba, these one-hour-long salons will feature some of the best musical storytellers in Colorado. These events are designed to be accessible to our diverse community, offering a unique opportunity for students and adults alike to experience the music and story of jazz.
Step into a world of timeless elegance and captivating melodies as you enjoy the sounds of Nat King Cole and his daughter Natalie for an unforgettable afternoon of music and memories. From Robert Bernard Johnson's velvet voice to Mary Louise Lee's soulful artistry, their performance is a celebration of family, love, and the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and souls.
Indulge in an afternoon of pure jazz elegance with the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra. This is more than just a concert; it's a journey through the timeless classics and unforgettable moments that define the musical legacy of Nat King Cole and his daughter Natalie. From Robert Bernard Johnson’s velvet voice to Mary Louise Lee’s soulful artistry, this performance celebrates family, love, and the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and souls. Reserve your tickets now for a wonderful afternoon of live jazz music!
Get ready for a night of funk and soul when the CJRO big band, and former Tower of Power lead singer Larry Braggs take the stage. You won't want to miss this electrifying performance that will have you grooving to the music of Tower of Power, the Temptations, and more. Larry previously performed at the Arvada Center Amphitheatre in 2021 and '22 which resulted in the CJRO's hit album "Compared to What." Help us welcome Larry back to Colorado for an exciting evening of high energy music and secure your tickets now!
Please note this is an artist change from what was previously announced.
Get ready for a concert experience like no other as the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra big band takes the stage alongside international recording artist and soul sensation Larry Braggs. As the former lead vocalist of the iconic soul band Tower of Power for 14 years, and touring with the Temptations, Larry Braggs brings unparalleled depth and passion to every performance. From powerhouse ballads to funky grooves, his soulful voice has graced stages around the world, earning him acclaim from fans and critics alike. The CJRO previously brought Larry to Denver for concerts that resulted in their third album “Compare to What” released in 2023.
The Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra is thrilled to bring national recording artist Tony DeSare to Arvada Center Amphitheatre. ”Tony and I have been working together for a few years now, and we enjoy a special musical relationship that we’re thrilled to bring to Colorado." Remarked CJRO Artistic Director, Drew Zaremba. “Our Arvada Center fans are in for a special evening with this fantastic artist and the CJRO big band!”
Known for his deep repertoire of Sinatra and other musical icons, New York's Tony DeSare is a sophisticated jazz vocalist, pianist, and songwriter who balances his love of the classic American Songbook with his other eclectic pop and rock influences. DeSare first emerged in the early 2000s and quickly drew favorable comparisons to other revivalists like Harry Connick Jr. and Michael Bublé. His diverse albums -- including 2007's number eight Billboard Jazz album “Last First Kiss,” 2009's “Radio Show,” and 2020's “Lush Life” -- reveal that he is just as likely to draw upon legendary artists such as Franks Sinatra and Nat King Cole as he is to perform songs by more contemporary artists like Prince, New Order and Carole King.
Enjoy Tony’s music on YouTube www.youtube.com/adesare.
Let the good times roll as the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra brings the vibrant spirit of New Orleans jazz to life in an electrifying evening of music and celebration! From the soulful sounds of the blues to swinging melodies of big horns, get ready for a rousing experience that will transport you straight to the heart of the Big Easy.
This concert is part of the Friday Night Jazz Series.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of all things swing! With the extraordinary vocalist Marion Powers leading the way, we'll take you on a captivating journey through jazz history, from the lively rhythms of the last Century to the vibrant sounds of today. Experience the evolution of jazz in one spectacular night—this is a concert you simply can’t miss!
Please note this is a title and artist change from what was previously announced.
Join the CJRO and the chanteuse Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield for an unforgettable evening of New Orleans jazz. Be prepared for a rousing experience as the band celebrates one of America's most iconic jazz styles! Let the good times roll and enjoy the vibrant sounds of the Big Easy. Secure your tickets now for a night of lively music, fun, and unforgettable jazz! Laissez les bons temps rouler!
Laissez les bon temps rouler when the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra ensemble performs an afternoon of New Orleans jazz. Be prepared for a rousing experience as the band celebrates one of America's most iconic jazz styles! Let the good times roll!
This performance is sponsored by The Nathan and Priscilla Gordon Foundation
Discover the origins of Southern jazz in the African American communities of New Orleans and how it shaped the future of American jazz. This Salon will be an informal discussion and live performance with vocalist Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield and Drew Zaremba.
About the Jazz Salon: Immerse yourself in the world of jazz with our new weekday salon series, a celebration of music, culture, and community. Curated by CJRO Artistic Director Drew Zaremba, these one-hour-long salons will feature some of the best musical storytellers in Colorado. These events are designed to be accessible to our diverse community, offering a unique opportunity for students and adults alike to experience the music and story of jazz.
The music of Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan will receive royal treatment when Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield joins the CJRO Sextet to honor these iconic singers. Tatiana is one of the country’s top rising star vocalists, with a refreshing and beautiful voice. She has recorded three albums as a leader and is featured on the CJRO’s fourth album, “Golden Lady”, to be released in 2025. Tatiana is an assistant professor of Contemporary Popular Music at Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver and formerly taught at the legendary University of North Texas.
Members of the Sextet are:
Drew Zaremba: alto saxophone, flute
Jared Cathey: tenor saxophone, clarinet
Gabriel Mervine: trumpet
Eric Gunnison: piano
Gonzalo Teppa: bass
Alejandro Castaño: drums
This performance is a pre-fest event for the Denver Jazz Fest and is presented by Denver Jazz and the Gift of Jazz.
Escape the winter chill with the timeless music of Gershwin and other jazz classics. Join us for an enchanting evening featuring the smooth and soulful sounds that define a generation. Let the CJRO warm your hearts with standards like "Summertime" and other much-loved songs. The evening will feature Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield, one of the top rising star vocalists in the country. Downbeat Magazine, described her intonation as “flawless” and her scatting “as natural as breathing.” She last appeared at the Arvada Center Amphitheater this past summer and is featured on the CJRO’s fourth album to be released this spring. Experience the magic of jazz this winter – secure your tickets now for an unforgettable night of live jazz music!
Let the good times roll as the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra brings the vibrant spirit of New Orleans jazz to life in an electrifying evening of music and celebration! From the soulful sounds of the blues to swinging melodies of big horns, get ready for a rousing experience that will transport you straight to the heart of the Big Easy.
A sensual journey into infectious rhythm and sizzling dance awaits as the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra joins Wonderbound to heat up your holidays with passionate melodies from the 1920’s-1950’s.
Ticket alert - several performances are already sold-out. Purchase your tickets soon!
As summer turns to fall, it's the perfect time to cuddle close with your loved ones. Put on a cozy sweater and join the CJRO for a musical journey that will transport you to other times. Music from classic and contemporary artists will include many of the songs you love. Reserve your seats and celebrate the changing seasons with CJRO! Marion Powers will be featured on vocals.
As summer turns to fall, it's the perfect time to cuddle close with your loved ones. Put on a cozy sweater and join the CJRO for a musical journey that will transport you to other times. Music from classic and contemporary artists will include many of the songs you love. Enjoy the warmth of an adult friendly hot chocolate and other delightful beverages in the lobby to get you in the mood. Reserve your seats and celebrate the changing seasons with CJRO!
Experience an Unforgettable Night of Jazz Mastery!
Join in as we pay tribute to the legendary guitarists who have shaped the sound of contemporary jazz. Prepare to be mesmerized by the fusion and progressive rhythms of ten-time Grammy-winner Pat Metheny, alongside the soulful sounds of Wes Montgomery, George Benson, and other iconic guitar greats.
The evening will showcase the region’s finest jazz musicians, led by guitarist Mike Abbott, whose dazzling technique will bring these legends to life. Adding to the magic is the captivating voice of Marion Powers on vocals, creating a truly unforgettable performance.
Celebrate the timeless music of these jazz icons and be part of a night where tradition meets innovation. Don’t miss your chance—secure your tickets now for an evening of extraordinary jazz!
Join CJRO Artistic Director Drew Zaremba and the incomparable Venezuelan pianist and educator Victor Mestas for an intimate hour of jazz. The salon will explore the rich musical history of Central America with captivating stories of the mambo, samba, and tejano movements.
About the Jazz Salon: Immerse yourself in the world of jazz with our new weekday salon series, a celebration of music, culture, and community. Curated by CJRO Artistic Director Drew Zaremba, these one-hour long salons will feature some of the best musical storytellers in Colorado. These events are designed to be accessible to our diverse community, offering a unique opportunity for students and adults alike to experience the music and story of jazz.
Indulge in an evening of pure jazz elegance as the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra pays tribute to two of the most iconic voices in music history: Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan. The music will invite you to immerse yourself in the timeless melodies and soulful stylings that defined an era and continue to captivate audiences around the world.
This concert is part of the Friday Night Jazz Series.
Embark on a musical journey to Brazil, where every rhythm, melody, and harmony tells a story of cultural richness, diversity, and passion. Brazilian music is a vibrant tapestry woven from a diverse range of cultural influences, rhythms, and melodies, reflecting the country's rich heritage and multicultural identity. From the smooth sounds of bossa nova to the infectious beats of samba, Brazilian music has captivated audiences around the world with its unique blend of passion, rhythm, and melody. Gabriel Santiago will be featured on guitar along with Marion Powers on vocals.
The Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra is set to deliver an electrifying evening of Brazilian jazz, showcasing some of the finest jazz artists in the region. Led by CJRO artistic director Drew Zaremba, this performance promises to be a fusion of Latin rhythms and captivating melodies that will transport audiences to the vibrant streets of Brazil. Guitarist Gabriel Santiago and vocalist Marion Powers will be featured along with the CJRO Latin Jazz Ensemble.
The Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra is thrilled to partner with the Samba Colorado dance company to launch its 2024/25 Jazz Series. The evening will be filled with the music from Latin America and promises to be an exciting night with this first time collaboration! Don't miss it!
Join the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra and celebrate the launch of its 24/25 Friday Night Jazz Series!
At its core, the Brazilian beat is characterized by syncopated rhythms, intricate percussion, and irresistible grooves that invite people to dance and lose themselves in the music. From the sultry sway of the bossa nova to the fast-paced energy of samba, the evening will encompass a diverse array of styles and genres, each with its own unique flavor and personality.
Join us and celebrate the second season of our continuing Jazz Series at the Fox!
At its core, the Brazilian beat is characterized by syncopated rhythms, intricate percussion, and irresistible grooves that invite people to dance and lose themselves in the music. From the sultry sway of the bossa nova to the fast-paced energy of samba, the evening will encompass a diverse array of styles and genres, each with its own unique flavor and personality. Guitarist Gabriel Santiago and vocalist Marion Powers will be featured.
What an exciting event at Dazzle Denver! The CJRO is set to deliver an electrifying evening of Brazilian jazz, showcasing some of the finest jazz artists in the region. Led by CJRO artistic director Drew Zaremba, this performance promises to be a fusion of Latin rhythms and captivating melodies that will transport audiences to the vibrant streets of Brazil.
Featuring a lineup that includes Victor Mestas, Gabriel Santiago, Bijoux Barbosa, Mike Marlier, Shane Endsley, Adam Bartczak, Art Bouton, Zach Rich, and many other top musicians, the big band is sure to captivate audiences with their unparalleled talent and dynamic energy. With Marion Powers lending her captivating vocals to the mix, this promises to be an unforgettable evening of music and celebration.
Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield's vocal blend of jazz, R&B, soul, and funk is sure to captivate audiences, especially when joined by the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra big band. With such a diverse range of musical styles, attendees can expect a dynamic evening filled with groovy rhythms, soulful melodies, and electrifying performances. This is an evening under the stars you won’t want to miss!
The CJRO big band debuts on the Aurora Fox stage featuring national powerhouse Tatiana LadyMay Mayfield. The night will include many soul-filled and R&B favorites including music from some of the greatest artists of all time, Aretha, Stevie, and more. The Ladies of Soul is the perfect finale to our first season at the Fox - don’t miss it!
Tapestry was a seminal album for Carole King, offering up nothing but hits and she was originally James Taylor’s composer until he coaxed her onto the stage. The rest is history. Many of her collaborations with various artists along with the music of Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton, and others will be heard in this wonderful evening of famous hits. Bandleader and vocalist Marion Powers will be featured along with Briana Harris, Saxophone & background vocals; Steve Kovalcheck, Guitar; CJRO Artistic Director Drew Zaremba, Piano; Matt Smiley, Bass, and Mary Claxton, Drums & background vocals.
Duke Ellington wrote a song in 1931 titled “It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing),” and for a generation of music lovers those were words to live by. Swing music ruled the airwaves and the dance floors throughout the 1930s and 40s, and the artists that led the bands became internationally beloved celebrities. Ellington, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Fletcher Henderson - these are some of the biggest names in jazz, and their music is still as popular today as it was when it was first recorded. Get ready for an evening of big band swing that will give you the urge to get up and dance to these classic tunes performed by the best jazz band in Colorado!
Tapestry was a seminal album for Carole King, offering up nothing but hits and she was originally James Taylor’s composer until he coaxed her onto the stage. The rest is history. Many of her collaborations with various artists along with the music of Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton, and others will be heard in this wonderful evening of famous hits. Bandleader and vocalist Marion Powers will be featured along with Briana Harris, Saxophone & background vocals; Steve Kovalcheck, Guitar; CJRO Artistic Director Drew Zaremba, Piano; Matt Smiley, Bass and Mary Claxton, Drums, & background vocals.
Tapestry was a seminal album for Carole King, offering up nothing but hits and she was originally James Taylor’s composer until he coaxed her onto the stage. The rest is history. Many of her collaborations with various artists along with the music of Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Dolly Parton, and others will be heard in this wonderful evening of famous hits. Bandleader and vocalist Marion Powers will be featured along with Briana Harris, Saxophone & background vocals; Steve Kovalcheck, Guitar; CJRO Artistic Director Drew Zaremba, Piano; Matt Smiley, Bass, and Mary Claxton, Drums & background vocals.
Tapestry was a seminal album for Carole King, offering up nothing but hits and she was originally James Taylor’s composer until he coaxed her onto the stage. The rest is history. Many of their collaborations along with the music of Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, and others will be heard in this wonderful evening of famous hits. Vocalist Marion Powers will be featured along with the CJRO small band.
In keeping with our tradition of performing a concert featuring music of Latin America the CJRO returns with an evening of Brazilian jazz and funk. Internationally known Brazilian-born guitarist Gabriel Santiago will join the orchestra along with celebrated pianist, Victor Mestas; bassist, Bijoux Barbosa, and Carl Dixon on percussion. Marion Powers will be featured on vocals.
Antônio Carlos Jobim was a songwriter, composer, and arranger, who transformed the extroverted rhythms of the Brazilian samba into an intimate music experience. Sérgio Mendes created a mix of bossa nova heavily crossed with jazz and funk and is best known for his band Brasil ‘66. He also played with Jobim in the 1950s and considered the artist his mentor. The audience will be treated to an evening of Brazilian jazz that will take you on a journey to the heart of Latin music!
In 1956 Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong went into the studio and created the iconic album Ella & Louis. The CJRO small band will perform music from this historic album in an evening of classic songs written by composers including Irving Berlin, the Gershwin’s and more. Mary Louise Lee and Robert Johnson are both well-known Colorado artists and have performed together for over 30 years. Having the pair collaborating on Ella & Louis will be a performance you will not want to miss!
In 1956 Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong went into the studio and created the iconic album Ella & Louis. The CJRO small band will perform music from this historic album in an evening of classic songs written by composers including Irving Berlin, the Gershwin’s and more. Mary Louise Lee and Robert Johnson are both well-known Colorado artists and have performed together for over 30 years. Having the pair collaborating on Ella & Louis will be a performance you will not want to miss!
