The Jazz Composers Orchestra

The Jazz Composers Orchestra was a bold American ensemble formed in 1965, dedicated to exploring innovative jazz compositions and improvisations. It brought together prominent jazz musicians to perform complex, large-scale works often blending jazz with other musical styles and experimental elements. The orchestra emphasized original compositions by leading jazz composers, fostering artistic collaboration and pushing the boundaries of jazz music. Its work contributed to the evolution of avant-garde jazz and showcased the possibilities of large ensemble improvisation and composition, making it influential in the development of modern jazz.