The Flatirons Jazz Orchestra presents “Ella & Ellington – A Legendary Friendship”

This unique show combines stories and music to explore the lives and work of two greatest legends of jazz, Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. Together they created some of the most important recordings in jazz history, but there’s a lot more to the story. Duke would say it was true love. For Ella, it was all professional respect and mentorship. More than just friends, the music reflects the depth of their mutual affection.

The Flatirons Jazz Orchestra – featuring Deborah Stafford, is a traditional 18-piece big band that faithfully recreates the great Swing-Era music of Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Glenn Miller, Stan Kenton, Gene Krupa, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Diane Schuur, Buddy Rich, and more.

This is the REAL DEAL: 5 saxes, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, piano, guitar, bass, drums, and one of the best jazz singers in the country. Composed of professional musicians and music educators, FJO is committed to the highest levels of musicianship, stagecraft, and performance.

Deborah Stafford – Vocals
Stephen Angus – 1st Alto/Soprano/Flute
Doug Rasmussen – 1st Tenor/Clarinet/Flute
Patti Shaw – 2nd Alto/Clarinet/Flute
Dave Gribble – 2nd Tenor/Clarinet
Tom Henderson – Baritone Sax
Gary Lloyd – 1st Trumpet
Jared Crump-Bertram – 2nd Trumpet
Gerry Sutton – 3rd Trumpet
Richard Mason – 4th Trumpet
Tommy van den Berg – 1st Trombone
Jim Griffis – 2nd Trombone
Tom Soto – 3rd Trombone
Bryan Powell – Bass Trombone
Matthew Popkin – Piano
Jim Lichens – Guitar
Todd VanSelus – Upright Bass
Orvel Ray Wilson – Drumset