Vancouver Jazz Orchestra

The **Vancouver Jazz Orchestra (VJO)** is a dynamic 17-piece big band co-founded in 2022 by clarinetist/saxophonist **James Danderfer** as Artistic Director and saxophonist **Cory Weeds** as Executive Director, bringing fresh energy to Vancouver's thriving jazz scene. Operating as a registered charity, the group focuses on performance, education, and mentorship, spotlighting local talent through compositions and arrangements by vets like Fred Stride, Jill Townsend, Brad Turner, and Bill Coon, alongside rising stars such as Sharon Minemoto, Daniel Hersog, Steve Kaldestad, Chris Berner, and Danderfer himself.

Their debut album, **Vancouver Jazz Orchestra Meets Brian Charette** (out December 5, 2025 via Cellar Music Group), teams them with acclaimed organist Brian Charette for a soulful mix of originals like Danderfer's "Oh Brother" and Kaldestad's "Shimmy!", blending Brazilian rhythms, Herbie Hancock vibes, and West Coast swing to affirm Vancouver's spot on the global jazz map.

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