Vancouver Jazz Orchestra plays Dave Robbins’ Happy Faces

Under the direction of saxophonist/clarinetist James Danderfer, the Vancouver Jazz Orchestra (VJO) features an array of the city’s finest jazz artists. The VJO is dedicated to the presentation of classic big band music as well as a focus on Vancouver composers, past and present. Recent performances have featured international artists such as Jeremy Pelt and Seamus Blake and 2025 promises to be the VJO’s biggest year yet, starting off with this very unique presentation. This evening will highlight a seminal figure in the legacy of large ensemble jazz in Vancouver, in Canada, and beyond: Dave Robbins. As a trombonist, bandleader, arranger, composer, and teacher, Robbins made invaluable contributions to the fine art of big band and jazz orchestra performance. Shockingly, no recordings of large ensembles led by Robbins have been available for years; instead, studio and live recordings were passed privately between enthusiasts. That was the case until now, with the release of the album Happy Faces on Reel to Real Recordings. Join the VJO as they celebrate! With Michael Kim, Brad Turner, Thomas Marriott, Brian Harding, Ellen Marple, Dawn Haylett, James Danderfer, Mike Braverman, Mia Gazley, Sharon Minemoto, André Lachance, & Dave Robbins