Contemporary Jazz Orchestra

Contemporary Jazz Orchestra East to Debut with Star-Studded Performance May 20th

Newton, MA—On Tuesday, May 20th, acclaimed saxophonist and bandleader Christopher Pitts proudly debuts the Contemporary Jazz Orchestra East (CJO East) in an electrifying concert showcasing an extraordinary lineup of internationally renowned jazz musicians. The performance takes place at Newton City Hall/War Memorial, beginning at 7:30 PM.

”I’ve been waiting for a long time to get my big band back together. There is nothing like a modern, no-holds-barred, blowing big band swinging great music!” 

The main sponsor is the Village Bank and admission is free to the public. This concert is part of the Linda Plaut Festival of the Arts program and is supported by Newton Community Pride in partnership with the City of Newton.

Originally founded in San Francisco, the 18-piece Contemporary Jazz Orchestra is an ensemble steeped in the vibrant tradition of big band jazz, blending dynamic arrangements with adventurous improvisation. Led by Pitts, whose extensive performance credits include collaborations with legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Clark Terry, J.C. Heard, Regina Carter, Aretha Franklin and Thad Jones, the orchestra promises an unforgettable evening of musical excellence.

Featured Artists Include:

• Christopher Pitts (Saxophone, Band Leader): Praised by JazzTimes for his deep immersion in jazz tradition, Pitts is a seasoned performer and producer with an illustrious career.
• George W. Russell Jr. (Piano): Esteemed pianist known for fusing gospel, jazz, and soul; Chair of Harmony and Jazz Composition at Berklee.
• Wes Wirth (Bass): Acclaimed composer and bassist, Wirth has recorded with Chuck Mangione, Stanley Jordan, and King Sunny Ade.
• Mark Walker (Drums): Grammy Award-winning drummer whose expansive career spans collaborations with Paquito D’Rivera, Oregon, and Michel Camilo.
• Greg Hopkins (Trumpet): Renowned trumpeter and well-known big band leader, composer, and arranger, Hopkins has performed with legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, and Buddy Rich, and leads the prestigious Berklee Concert Jazz Orchestra.
• Bijon Watson (Lead Trumpet): Grammy Award-winning trumpeter whose prolific career includes performances with Natalie Cole, Michael Bublé, Lady Gaga, and orchestras worldwide.
• Lihi Haruvi (Alto Saxophone): Known for her soulful improvisations, Haruvi has performed with jazz luminaries including Danilo Pérez, Luciana Souza, and George Garzone. She is a distinguished faculty member at Berklee College of Music and New England Conservatory.
• Shannon LeClaire (Lead Alto Saxophone): Berklee Associate Professor celebrated for her collaborations with top jazz ensembles and mentorship of emerging talents.
• Rick DiMuzio (Tenor Saxophone): Veteran saxophonist and composer, DiMuzio has performed globally alongside artists like Esperanza Spalding and Terri Lyne Carrington.
• Philippe Cretien (Tenor Saxophone) Recorded three CD’s as a leader. Artistic director of the Toulon International Jazz Festival. Jazz band director and Jazz Chair at The Rivers School.
• Ben Whiting (Baritone Saxophone): Rising talent regularly featured in prominent Boston jazz ensembles.
• Akili Jamal Haynes (Trumpet): mentored by Wynton Marsalis, performs on trombone, trumpet and acoustic bass. 
• Douglas Olsen (Trumpet): A prominent New England trumpeter featured with bands like Iguie Castrillo Latin Jazz Orchestra and Tommy Dorsey Orchestra.
• Artie Montanaro (Trombone): Accomplished performer with Kenny Hadley Big Band and the John Allmark Jazz Orchestra.
• Jeff Galindo (Trombone): Esteemed trombonist, former musical director for Esperanza Spalding, with global touring experience.
• Pete Fanelli (Trombone): An active performer across diverse musical genres, including jazz, klezmer, and theater orchestras.
• Peter Cirelli (Bass Trombone): Experienced educator and performer in symphonic, jazz, and musical theater orchestras across Boston.

More information at: https://jazznation.com/contemporary-jazz-orchestra/

This special debut event promises a thrilling exploration of innovative, swinging jazz, delivered by some of the genre’s finest musicians.

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, May 20, 2025
• Time: 7:30 PM
• Location: Newton City Hall/War Memorial 1000 Commonwealth Ave Newton 02459
• Admission: Free

About Christopher Pitts:

A prominent figure in the jazz community, Christopher Pitts has performed extensively across North America and Europe. Beyond his performances, Pitts is a dedicated arts advocate, producing the acclaimed Newton Piano Summit and Linda Plaut Festival of the Arts 2000-2024, and has served as co-chair of the Newton Cultural Council.

For media inquiries, artist interviews, and further information, contact Christopher Pitts at [email protected] 617 515-7579

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