In a world sick with Cyrus hysteria and One Direction-less fever, the formation of a jazz ensemble would seem unlikely. But for Philadelphians, the emergence of a newly-founded jazz orchestra echoes the time of an earlier city.
Last week, the Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia held its first-ever concert at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. The 17-piece ensemble, led by Temple director of jazz studies Terrell Stafford, featured jazz veterans as well as up-and-comers all brought together by the musical traditions of Philadelphia.
It is no surprise that the brand new orchestra would catch the attention of native stars. Philadelphia-rooted musicians like Wynton Marsalis, Randy Barron, Randy Brecker and Jimmy Heath joined the outfit alongside local musicians Robert "Bootsie" Barnes, Larry McKenna and Tony Williams.
The always affable Bill Cosby, advocate of jazz music and longtime friend and mentor to Stafford, emceed the night to an audience who battled the cold for a chance to hear the group's debut.
Despite the temperature, the Philadelphia vanguard was received warmly, and has since been highly touted around the nation.
"The orchestra delivered what it promised--and more--to a full house of enthusiastic fans who came out in zero degree weather, many still bundled up in their seats, a rare sight at the Kimmel Center," wrote All About Jazz' s Victor L. Shermer.
The ensemble was minted on International Jazz Day. And while they currently have no upcoming shows on their schedule, go ahead and follow them on Facebook.
Also, watch (and listen) to the Jazz Orchestra of Philadelphia's mission statement, as told by Terrell Stafford below.
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