Concert Jazz Orchestra - Concert Jazz Orchestra (CJO) is the premiere jazz ensemble of three at BellevilleEastHigh School. CJO performs at countless civic functions and jazz festivals in both Illinois and Missouri. The Concert Jazz Orchestra has had the privilege to open for Maynard Ferguson and his Big Bop Nouveau twice and has performed with trumpeter Pat Harbison, trombonist Bill Watrous, pianist Reggie Thomas and trombonist/ composer Brett Stamps. In the past the CJO has won grand champion in the 2002 Peach Bowl Festival. Recently the band won grand champion honors at the Outback Bowl in Tampa, FL. Concert Jazz Orchestra placed 2nd at the Eastern Illinois University Jazz Festival and 1st at the St. Charles West Jazz Festival. In addition to performing, Concert Jazz Orchestra is the host to an annual jazz festival during the spring semester which is in its fifth year and includes an average of about 20 bands. Most recently the CJO performed at the Illinois Music Educators Association All State Conference for 2009.
2009-2010 Concert Jazz Orchestra
Saxophones
Andy Cange
Alex Davis
Cameron Dey
Justin Schwarz
Debra Gunn
Mara Devros
Trumpets
Casey Keller
Stephen Doonan
Khamani Hagood
Kevin McNary
Melody Wolff
Trombones
Jack Pickard
William Wolff
Kyle Wilson
Zach Madej
Nick Nezamis
Rhythm Section Victoria Francis (piano)
Jack Mortka (drums)
Anthony Davis (drums)
Buddy Stratton (bass)
Clayton Floyd (guitar)
Adam Tiemann (vibes/ percussion)