Strathmore Announces Formation of New Jazz Orchestra

There is a major new chapter unfolding for the DC/Baltimore music community, and I am honored to be part of it.

I’ve partnered with Strathmore to launch the Strathmore Jazz Orchestra, which will be the first in-house big band in Strathmore’s history. I’ll be serving as conductor and creative partner, shaping the artistic direction and helping build this big band from the ground up.

Our debut performance is set for February 13, 2026, featuring the legendary Grammy winning vocalist Kurt Elling. I’ve worked with Kurt before, and I’m excited to collaborate again, this time with this new orchestra at such an important moment for Strathmore.

When I agreed to take on this role, one of my core stipulations was that this orchestra would never function as a “backup band.” The musicians themselves are the heart of the project. I wanted this ensemble to be in the foreground, presented with the same artistic importance and visibility as any guest soloist we bring in. The players are the identity of this orchestra, and I’m committed to building a culture that places them at the center of every performance.

This moment feels especially meaningful because although I’ve spent years conducting large ensemble projects across North America and Europe, I’ve never had the opportunity to do this kind of work locally here in the DC/Baltimore region where I live. I’m genuinely excited to invest in something rooted in this community, to build a local audience around this new band, and to contribute something meaningful and lasting to the region’s musical landscape.

Planning for future projects and upcoming seasons is already well underway. We have some truly exciting ideas beginning to take shape, and there is so much more to come as we continue defining this ensemble’s voice and mission.

A huge thank you to the entire Strathmore team, especially Joi Brown, whose vision, leadership, and trust made this partnership possible. I am grateful and honored to be part of this historic moment for the organization.

Here is the official announcement with more details: https://www.strathmore.org/press-media/press-release-strathmore-announces-formation-of-new-jazz-orchestra

Featured Musicians for the Kurt Elling Debut Performance

Charles Pillow (alto saxophone)

Amanda Gardier (alto saxophone)

Paul White (tenor saxophone)

Pat Shook (tenor saxophone)

Leigh Pilzer (baritone saxophone)

Tony Kadleck (trumpet)

Tyler Mire (trumpet)

Kenny Rittenhouse (trumpet)

Stuart Mack (trumpet)

John Fedchock (trombone)

Ben Patterson (trombone)

Kyle Johnson (trombone)

Jennifer Wharton (bass trombone)

Jonathan Epley (guitar)

Chris Ziemba (piano)

Amy Shook (bass)

Allison Miller (drums)

Migiwa Miyajima (tonmeister)

Matthew Gunderson (orchestra librarian)