Q. What is "jazz repertory?"

A. Typically, jazz repertory is music that was played by medium to large ensembles from the 1930's until the 1960's. The music of Claude Thornhill, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey and Stan Kenton is all classic music in this style.

Q. Isn't a "jazz repertory orchestra" the same as a "big band?"

A. Some jazz repertory orchestras are essentially big bands. Their goal is to recreate the music played by orchestras led by such bandleaders as Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman. Typically they play dance music that was popular in the 1930s and 1940s. This is usually music by such composers as George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Richard Rogers and Jerome Kern. The IJO occasionally plays that style of music for dance and dinner events but our concerts usually present music of a more symphonic nature, works that have a historical or musical significance and pieces that challenge both the musicians and the audiences.

Q. Why is the IJO's orchestra a lot bigger than any big band I've seen before?

A. There are a number of IJO ensembles. The repertory orchestra is the smallest of our orchestras and is equivalent to what most people would call a "big band." The neophonic orchestra is similar to the large orchestras used by Stan Kenton (specifically his "neophonic orchestras") and Gil Evans. We have an even bigger group which is essentially a symphony orchestra except that it is more comfortable playing jazz than most symphony orchestras are.

Q. What kind of music does the IJO typically perform?

A. The IJO's repertoire is very broad and includes popular music of the 1920s, 1930s and 1940s; the extended suites of composers such as Duke Ellington and Gil Evans; neophonic and neoclassical works such as those associated with Gil Evans, Stan Kenton and Claude Thornhill; modern compositions and arrangements written in a neophonic style; and jazz-influenced neoclassical works by such composers as Bernstein, Gershwin, Shostakovich and Stravinsky.

Q. How does a jazz repertory orchestra operate?

A. A jazz repertory orchestra usually operates just like any symphony orchestra. Typically the organisation is registered as a not-for-profit corporation and receives financial support through ticket sales, donations, sponsorships, and grants.

Q. Does Ottawa need an ensemble like the IJO?

A. Most major cities in North America have a jazz repertory orchestra like the IJO. The highly enthusiastic response to IJO performances is a good indication that the orchestra fills a hole in the Ottawa cultural landscape. It's an exciting prospect not just for Ottawa but for Canada.

Q. How are the programmes for IJO concerts determined?

A. The programmes are the basis for the concept that has become the IJO. Adrian says he has about ten years worth of concerts already planned out! However we are always interested in suggestions. If you are a composer or arranger and you'd like the IJO to perform one of your works, please feel free to contact us.

Q. Why is an organisation needed to support the orchestra?

A. The organisation provides the ensemble with greater stability and longevity. It is also a more appropriate vehicle for receiving financial and volunteer assistance. Adrian has a strong aversion to bureacracy, politics, egos, and anything else that amounts to unnecessary overhead. The word “committee” makes him cringe (although he knows of productive committees). Our goal is to operate with the minimal overhead needed to support the orchestra in its artistic endeavours.

Q. How can I support the IJO?

A. Read about our supporters programme.

Q. Can I book the IJO to play at an event?

A. Absolutely. See this page.

Q. Who maintains this website?

A. Our Artistic Director, Adrian Cho, maintains this website. Check here for details about how the site is maintained.

Q. What should I wear to an IJO concert?

A. Check our page on Attending a Concert.

Q. When should I applaud during an IJO concert?

A. Check our page on Attending a Concert.