The Bundesjazzorchester (BuJazzO) is a pretty unique institution worldwide. The orchestra was founded to support young jazz musicians - up to age 24 - after leaving the school orchestras, youth music schools, etc. Applicants can be members for up to two years after a successful audition. The program of the BuJazzO is organized in so called "work phases." During a work phase the members of the orchestra develop a complete concert repertoire under the guidance of professional musicians/educators.
Most of its existance the BuJazzO was conducted by trombonist Peter Herbolzheimer (1988-2006). Since 2009 the band is conducted by keyboarder Mike Herting.
The BuJazzO played almost 400 concerts and visited twenty countries. The music of the orchestra is documented on numerous CDs and on a special BuJazzO series (Volumes 1-6).
Among the alumni of the BuJazzO are the likes of trumpeter Till Brönner, pianist Frank Chastenier, vibraphonist Christopher Dell, pianist Julia Hülsmann, pianist Hubert Nuss, vocalist Michael Schiefel, trumpeter Chris Walden, saxophonist Peter Weniger, bassist Martin Wind, trombonist Nils Wogram and the young pianist Michael Wollny.
Source: Rateyourmusic
