The Arvada Center loves Colorado jazz
Arvada Center patrons know that they are guaranteed a good time when they attend a Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra (otherwise known as the CJRO) concert, and we are excited to announce the music they will be playing for us over the course of the next year. Whether you are a fan of the music they are performing, the guest singers they bring, or you are just a good ole CJRO superfan, read along for upcoming events and check out some of the music that you may hear.
Grab your tickets to see CJRO at the Arvada Center here:
Read More about the CJRO's New Season
Founded in 2012 with the mission to perform the best music with the best musicians, the CJRO does just that and more. Exciting world-renowned guest artists and many of the best local jazz musicians join together to perform anything from rollicking big band classics to modern smaller ensemble pieces for enthusiastic crowds across the state. Keep reading for more about their upcoming shows.
Saturday, July 15, 7:30 pm
The Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra presents: The Ladies of Soul: Celebrating the Music of Aretha Franklin with Tatiana Mayfield
R-E-S-P-E-C-T is what the CJRO commands when they hit the stage, and with nationally-known guest singer Tatiana “Lady May” Mayfield, The Ladies of Soul: Celebrating the Music of Aretha Franklin show pays respect to the Queen of Soul herself. Check out this previous CJRO show with Tatiana Mayfield to get yourself in the mood for some fine jazz and then come see them perform Aretha Franklin hits on July 15.
Saturday, October 21, 7:30 pm
A Tribute to Chick Corea with Eric Gunnison
Chick Corea created a splash as part of Miles Davis’ band, going on to form his own fusion jazz group Return to Forever and eventually winning 27 Grammy awards. Who else could do this music such justice other than esteemed local jazz pianist and bandleader Eric Gunnison, who has been part of CJRO since its inception in 2012. Listen to Chick Corea himself play “Spain,” and then join us on October 21 to hear CJRO’s take on the classic.
Saturday, January 27, 7:30 pm
Big Band Royalty: Nothin’ But the Blues
Everyone can relate to having the blues from time to time, and on January 27 CJRO is going to have the blues something bad. The blues has been intertwined with American history for the past 100+ years, and the Big Band Royalty: Nothin’ But the Blues show promises a blues-infused night that will end up leaving you happy. Performing songs by Duke Ellington, Count Basie and more, we want you to come get the blues - big band style- at the Arvada Center. Listen to them play “Blee Blop Blues” by Count Basie below - maybe you will be hearing this live!
Saturday, March 2, 7:30 pm
Latin Sounds From Legendary Artists: Jobim, Mendez & More!
There’s something really thrilling about Brazilian jazz and funk - the music can go quickly from sultry and smooth to complex rhythms. In Latin Sounds from Legendary Artists: Jobim, Mendez and More, the CJRO goes south of the border to celebrate some of the greats of samba and bossa nova like Antônio Carlos Jobim and Sérgio Mendez. Learn about these composers and more on the event page, and get inspired by listening to Antônio Carlos Jobim and Frank Sinatra perform “The Girl From Ipanema,” Jobim’s most famous song done crooner-style that may be played at the concert.
Saturday, May 18, 7:30 pm
Swing, Swing, Swing: Benny and Beyond
There’s nothing that gets you in the mood to move more than big bands performing swing music, and the CJRO does it the best! Playing classic hits from swing superstars such as Benny Goodman and Duke Ellington, this night will prove the staying power and timelessness of swing music. Listen to Benny Goodman and his Orchestra play “Sing, Sing, Sing” and get ready for a swinging night on May 18!
