SJO Big Band (Surrey Jazz Orchestra)

The SJO Big Band is a 16 piece big band playing a varied and exciting selection of modern big band jazz. During many of their performances, the SJO are supported by some of the local leading vocalists, both male and female.

The band started as the Addlestone Dance Orchestra in 1969, formed by a group of musicians who wanted to play their favourite type of music: Big Band Jazz. The guys got together to rehearse and play for fun – playing monthly for audiences that were keen followers to hear their favourite tunes from such bands as Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Buddy Rich and others of this ilk.

Now, more than forty years on, the SJO still play tunes from some of these bands, but have also augmented their repertoire with modern arrangements from musicians such as Chick Corea ,Gordon Goodwin , Gerry Mulligan, Frank Mantooth, Herbie Hancock and Thad Jones

Having played all around the Surrey area during their 40 plus years existence, the SJO now rehearse and perform on a monthly basis at Jacob's Well Village Hall in Guildford - but are also available to perform elsewhere.