Strathmore today announced the formation of the Strathmore Jazz Orchestra, a dynamic 17-piece big band created and led by conductor and composer Daniel Jamieson. The ensemble will make its debut on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, performing with Grammy-winning vocalist Kurt Elling.
The launch of the Strathmore Jazz Orchestra marks an exciting milestone—the first house big band in the institution’s history. Strathmore plans for the ensemble, or configurations of it, to return in future seasons, collaborating with different guest artists and expanding the organization’s jazz footprint.
“This is about building something lasting,” said Joi Brown, Strathmore’s VP of Programming & Artistic Director. “We’re bringing outstanding jazz musicians together in a setting that invites collaboration and fuels new artistic ideas each season.”
Jamieson spent nearly six months assembling the orchestra, drawing from top-tier musicians across the East Coast. The roster includes celebrated players from the New York jazz scene and standout regional artists, including several members of the various premier military bands.
“My goal wasn’t to create a backup band,” said Jamieson. “Kurt will be extraordinary, but this ensemble is the heartbeat of the music. They’re the ones bringing these charts to life.”
The orchestra features musicians selected for both their technical excellence and collaborative spirit:
· Charles Pillow (alto saxophone)
· Amanda Gardier (alto saxophone)
· Paul White (tenor saxophone)
· Pat Shook (tenor saxophone)
· Leigh Pilzer (baritone saxophone)
· John Fedchock (trombone)
· Ben Patterson (trombone)
· Kyle Johnson (trombone)
· Jennifer Wharton (bass trombone)
· Tony Kadleck (trumpet)
· Tyler Mire (trumpet)
· Kenny Rittenhouse (trumpet)
· Stuart Mack (trumpet)
· Jonathan Epley (guitar)
· Chris Ziemba (piano)
· Amy Shook (bass)
· Allison Miller (drums)
Jamieson, who regularly leads orchestras in the U.S. and Europe, emphasized the rare opportunity to shape a resident big band from the ground up.
“Working with established orchestras is one thing,” he said. “But bringing together musicians specifically for this purpose—knowing we’re creating something that will grow, evolve, and serve audiences for seasons to come—feels incredibly special.”
Performance Details
Kurt Elling: In the Brass Place with the Strathmore Jazz Orchestra
Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, at 8 p.m.
Strathmore Music Center
5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, MD 20852
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