For four decades, the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra (CHJO) has stood among the world's premier large jazz ensembles, combining virtuosic musicianship, inspired compositions, and the unmistakable spirit of swing. Founded in Los Angeles in 1986 by bassist and arranger John Clayton, drummer Jeff Hamilton, and the late saxophonist Jeff Clayton, the 19-piece orchestra has earned international acclaim for performances that celebrate the rich traditions of big band jazz while continually pushing the music forward. The orchestra's signature sound is rooted in John Clayton's masterful writing and the collective artistry of some of the finest jazz musicians on the West Coast. Influenced by the legacies of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Thad Jones, CHJO has developed a voice that is distinctly its own—elegant, energetic, and deeply expressive. Over the years, the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra has received multiple Grammy nominations and has appeared on acclaimed recordings with artists including Diana Krall, John Pizzarelli, Natalie Cole, Milt Jackson, Charles Aznavour, Barbara Morrison, and Ernie Andrews. The ensemble also served as the resident jazz orchestra at the Hollywood Bowl from 1999-2001 and continues to perform at major festivals and concert halls throughout North America, Europe, and Japan. East Coast appearances by the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra are exceptionally rare, making this performance a unique opportunity to experience one of jazz's most celebrated ensembles live. As the orchestra celebrates its 40th anniversary, audiences can expect an unforgettable evening of extraordinary musicianship, improvisation, and swing that only the CHJO can deliver.

Paul Creative Arts Center. Bratton Recital Hall, M-135

Few pianists embody the joy, elegance, and swing of the jazz tradition more completely than Benny Green. For more than four decades, Green has been recognized as one of the world's foremost jazz pianists, celebrated for his dazzling technique, soulful touch, and deep understanding of the Great American Songbook and the bebop tradition. Born in New York City and raised in Berkeley, California, Green began classical piano studies at the age of seven before discovering jazz through his father's record collection. As a teenager he was already performing professionally with Eddie Henderson and Woody Shaw, launching a remarkable career that soon led him to New York, where he became a featured member of Betty Carter's legendary ensemble. He later gained international recognition as pianist with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, one of jazz's most influential groups, before joining the celebrated Ray Brown Trio, where his artistry continued to reach audiences around the world. His recordings for Blue Note, Criss Cross, Telarc, and Sunnyside showcase an artist equally at home interpreting timeless standards and presenting compelling original compositions. Deeply influenced by Oscar Peterson, Bud Powell, Wynton Kelly, and Gene Harris, Green has forged a style that is unmistakably his own—combining breathtaking virtuosity with lyrical warmth, impeccable swing, and an extraordinary sense of melody. This Traditional Jazz Series appearance offers an opportunity to experience one of jazz's true masters in an intimate concert setting—a performance that promises both brilliance and heart.

Paul Creative Arts Center. Bratton Recital Hall, M-135

Faculty Concert Series: Faculty Jazz Ensemble

Paul Creative Arts Center. Bratton Recital Hall, M-135

Multi-instrumentalist Dennis Lichtman is one of today's leading performers and advocates of traditional jazz, celebrated for his mastery of clarinet, violin, mandolin, and guitar. Based in New York City, he has performed throughout the United States and internationally, appearing at major jazz festivals and collaborating with many of the foremost artists in the traditional jazz community. Equally at home with early New Orleans jazz, swing, and folk traditions, Lichtman brings exceptional versatility, historical knowledge, and infectious musical energy to every performance. A dedicated educator and ambassador for America's original music, Lichtman is the longtime host of the renowned weekly traditional jazz session at Mona's in New York City's East Village, one of the country's premier gathering places for musicians and fans of early jazz. Whether leading his own ensembles or collaborating with fellow artists, Dennis Lichtman delivers performances that honor the tradition while keeping it vibrant, engaging, and unmistakably alive.

Paul Creative Arts Center. Bratton Recital Hall, M-135

Paul Creative Arts Center. Bratton Recital Hall, M-135

For more than fifteen years, Tuba Skinny has captivated audiences around the world with its joyful, authentic approach to early jazz. Formed on the streets of New Orleans in 2009, the ensemble has grown from an informal busking band into one of the most beloved traditional jazz groups of the modern era, earning an international following through relentless touring, acclaimed recordings, and millions of online viewers. Rather than recreating early jazz as a museum piece, Tuba Skinny breathes new life into the music with performances that are deeply rooted in the traditions of New Orleans. Drawing inspiration from the city's rich musical heritage, the band performs classic jazz, blues, ragtime, jug band music, spirituals, and country blues from the early twentieth century. Their repertoire highlights the artistry of legendary musicians such as King Oliver, Jelly Roll Morton, Louis Armstrong, Bessie Smith, and the countless unsung performers whose music shaped America's original art form. Despite their worldwide reputation, Tuba Skinny has remained committed to the streets and neighborhoods where the band was born, continuing to perform regularly in New Orleans while touring extensively throughout North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. Their recordings and live performances have introduced a new generation of listeners to traditional jazz, proving that music created more than a century ago remains as vibrant and relevant as ever. Whether encountered on a street corner in the French Quarter or on the concert stage, Tuba Skinny offers an unforgettable musical experience—one that celebrates the enduring power of melody, rhythm, improvisation, and the joyful spirit at the heart of New Orleans jazz.