Since its foundation three decades ago, the Zurich Jazz Orchestra (ZJO) has established itself as one of Europe's leading professional big bands. With tireless energy, artistic curiosity and a deep love of the big band tradition, the ensemble has had a decisive influence on the Zurich jazz scene - with its unmistakable sound of swinging elegance, experimental openness and orchestral power.
The musical development of the ZJO has been decisively shaped by the various musical directors, who have set new impulses with their signature style and expanded the stylistic diversity of the orchestra. Each era - whether characterized by their own compositions and arrangements, international collaborations or programmatic curiosity - has furthered the ZJO's artistic identity.
On its 30th anniversary, the ZJO looks back on an impressive musical journey. The anniversary concert program brings together highlights from the repertoire of the past decades - works that have particularly shaped the ensemble and its audience. At the same time, we are opening up the archive and bringing some hidden treasures back to the stage: less frequently performed compositions and arrangements that impressively expand the artistic spectrum of the ZJO. It is an evening full of memories, discoveries and perspectives - a musical homage to the past and a resounding outlook on the future of an orchestra that is constantly changing and yet remains true to its vision.