A​bout IJO:
Innovations Jazz Orchestra was formed in 2000 and currently consists of 20 regular musicians who enjoy playing big band, swing and jazz music. We rehearse weekly in Tadley, near Basingstoke. The sound of the band in full swing is something to behold - we hope you will be able to come to one of our events to listen for yourself. We are inspired by Sinatra, Basie, Ellington, Fitzgerald and the love of this golden era of music is shared amongst all the band members. Innovations Jazz Orchestra was formed to capture the very best of this genre of music whilst taking a broad minded approach to the repertoire to include not only some of the greats, but also tunes that perhaps don't get heard too often in big band music including contemporary music and everything in between.

Why 'Innovations'?
The addition of a dedicated flute section offers a great versatility to the band's sound - at full pelt, the full sound of the woodwind is a perfect contrast to the strength of the brass whilst in the softer numbers, the flutes add a wonderful lyrical dimension to the sound. Count Basie used flutes in many of his pieces and this is a sound we wish to recreate.

Since its formation, over 150 different musicians have played with IJO either as guests, stand-ins or at rehearsals. IJO welcomes musicians who would like to come and 'have a blow' with the band for an evening - keep an eye on the site for any current vacancies in IJO.