THE ART OF BIG BAND MUSIC BY THE RENO JAZZ ORCHESTRA
| Reno Jazz Orchestra (RJO) transforms the stage into a time machine, presenting a performance of 100 years of the boldest, brightest, and most swinging big band jazz music on March 8th, 2026, at the University of Nevada, Reno.
Reno Jazz Orchestra’s Music Director, Dr. Greg Johnson, and four-time Grammy-nominated and internationally renowned trumpeter, Mike Rocha, join the powerhouse music of the 17-piece jazz orchestra for an unforgettable adventure through jazz history as they present “The Art of Big Band” concert. “Guest performer Mike Rocha is a talented and charismatic force in this age of musical enterprise,” said Dr. Greg Johnson. “Whether performing in formal orchestral settings, high-profile cinema appearances, in a jazz orchestra, or in costume singing and dancing, he is noted for his professional excellence and integrity.” While Rocha plays with countless ensembles, he is most noted for his work with the Lappitt-Rocha Septet, who recently recorded their first album, “First Take.” Other artists’ groups include Christina Aguilera, Bob Dylan, Lorde, Panic! at the Disco, Trisha Yearwood, Idina Menzel, Alfie Boe and Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band & Little Phat Band, among many others. Prices range from $10 for students with I.D. and pre-reserved seats priced at $40 and $50 through the non-profit organization’s website RenoJazzOrchestra.org. The concerts are part of the Reno Jazz Orchestra’s “Quintessence Music Series,” which offers special reduced rates for those who purchase tickets for this concert and “An Afternoon of Romance ~ The Al Jarreau Project,” May 10, 2026, on Mother’s Day. |