It might be unexpected but the Brussels Jazz orchestra (BJO) is not the kind of jazz orchestra that sticks to standards. It prefers to achieve the highest level by composing original music, creating unique arrangements and playing inventively as well as passionately. In fact, it really is jazz with a dynamic orchestral sound, with a classic strength in which each musician is also a brilliant soloist. Call it an ‘orchestrated passion for jazz’ that incites BJO to create world-class music. Who comes to play with BJO depends on the project. In addition to BJO’s own productions, it works with well known musicians from all over the world. In that way, BJO has established a reputation at home and on relevant jazz stages abroad. Since 1999 the Brussels Jazz Orchestra is recognised and subsidised by the Flemish Government. BJO performed with Philip Catherine, Bert Joris, deFilharmonie ,Toots Thielemans, Brass Band Willebroek, Tutu Puoane, Brussels Philharmonic, David Linx, Vlaams Radio Koor, Veerle Dobbelaere, Michel Herr, Michaël De Cock, ’t Arsenaal and Richard Galliano in own productions. BJO invited Maria Schneider (US), Kenny Werner (US), Dave Liebman (US), Dave Douglas (US), Gianluigi Trovesi (IT), Gustavo Bergalli (ARG), Norma Winstone (GB), McCoy Tyner (US), Maria Joao (Portugal), Kenny Wheeler (GB), Lee Konitz (US) and others.
