The GMJO serves to provide a senior level jazz ensemble opportunity for the young musicians of the region to aspire towards. Led by composer and arranger Richard Iles, the band benefits from bespoke original compositions with a contemporary style in a change to much of the mainstream repertoire used by youth jazz orchestras more locally. The band is hosted by Chethams School of Music and showcases the talents of numerous Chethams students who combine with students from across the region to form a highly talented ensemble. In 2014 GMJO performed at the Schools Proms at the Royal Albert Hall, they have performed at the Bridgewater hall twice and in July 2017 shared the stage with UK Trumpet star Mike Lovatt at the Wigan International Jazz Festival.
This year’s concert will feature music commissioned by the band by ten of the UK’s most prolific jazz composers including Malcolm Edmondstone, Iain Ballamy, Mark Nightingale and Clarke Tracey.
The GMJO is delighted to welcome Blakely Music Centre Stage Band and their Musical Director John Rudden as guests for this show.