Uptown Jazz Orchestra

The MISSION of the UPTOWN JAZZ ORCHESTRA is to bring jazz back into the forefront of the music world with fun, entertaining, and engaging live performances. The energy and excitement UJO generates is rooted in the New Orleans brass band and funk traditions, but extends through swing, bebop, modern to contemporary jazz sounds. UJO also educates younger musicians through mentorships, building a strong core of musicians to carry the great legacy of jazz music into the future.

Formed in 2008, by trombonist and producer, Delfeayo Marsalis originally founded UJO for the purpose of preserving, perpetuating, and promoting a greater appreciation for jazz and its New Orleans' rooted traditions. Now in its 15th year, UJO's mission has shifted to being the premier jazz-based entertaining band in the world. Comprised of 20 accomplished musicians, UJO is stretching the boundaries of what is expected from big bands, playing with an extraordinary sense of joy and fun that could only come from New Orleans. With influences from Louis Armstrong to Count Basie, James Brown to J. Cole, Marsalis and UJO performances help free the mind, warm the heart, and heal the soul.

UJO's premiere educational program, Swinging with the Cool School, has provided an opportunity for thousands of students across the nation to learn about the true original art form of jazz through its African-American history, stories and sounds. Your tax-deductible donation will help to keep the New Orleans music community thriving and allow UJO to keep creating exciting and exhilarating performances.

We thank you and appreciate your contribution.

Visit https://theujo.org/ to find out more about us!

Testimonials

"In short, the UJO let the good times roll, while also injecting some serious musical chops & undertows." Santa Barbara Independent

"The show was incredible--the music, the voices, the journey kept me connected. I loved it!" - G. Burciaga

"As an old-school jazz guy who's been listening for a long time, to hear UJO play the big band sounds, featuring everybody as a soloist, simply outstanding.
Seeing Uptown was the highlight of my Super Bowl week! - J. Reynolds

"I never knew jazz could be this must fun! Greatest concert ever!!!" - Y. Kato

"I'm turning 70 and this is the best concert I've ever been to in my life. we needed it now more than ever, the joy that your music brings! Susan A.