Zurich Jazz Orchestra

Formed in 1995 the Zurich Jazz Orchestra (ZJO) has rightfully earned its place amongst Europe’s top professional Big Bands. From its humble beginnings as a rehearsal band and a forum for local composers and arrangers the band has constantly evolved during its 23-year history. After seven years as a musical director, Rainer Tempel left the ZJO in April 2013, giving way for the artistic director Steffen Schorn to over take the reins. Schorn’s first concerts as conductor took place in September 2014 at the Zurich Film Festival and the festival Jazznojazz with drummer Jojo Mayer. Since this time Steffen has led the band at countless concerts both in their home base of Zurich (Switzerland) and internationally. With four albums already released (Beyond Swiss Tradition, 2005; New Plans, 2008; Songs, 2012, Three Pictures 2018) and celebrated by an ever-growing fan base at clubs, festivals and theatres, both at home and abroad, the ZJO has now provided its very own soundtrack to this success story. The big band recorded its fifth studio album “Dedications” in the winter of 2020/21, the second under the direction of Steffen Schorn, who was musical director for six years before changing to his current role as congenial composer in residence. As of September 2021 Ed Partyka is the new musical director.