Corsair Blue Jazz Orchestra

It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got the swing!

The original founders of the Corsair Blue Jazz Orchestra all performed together at Manheim Township High School in one of the leading music programs in Pennsylvania from 1975 to 1978. After a “wouldn’t it be fun…” conversation at a class reunion, this group of friends made the decision on a cold November evening in 2013 to form the Corsair Blue Jazz Orchestra. Today, CBJO is a twenty-piece big band whose passion is to perform the music of the greatest generation. Performing for enthusiastic audiences spanning multiple generations across Central Pennsylvania, CBJO is “bringing the swing” to the 2021 Lancaster Roots and Blues festival.

The heart and soul of the band continues to consist of accomplished musicians ranging from students to retirees, counting several US military veterans among their ranks. The common thread among CBJO’s performers is a love for popular Big Band music, seeing the joy of those who “remember when” and watching the excitement of the younger generations that have re-discovered the joy of swing dancing. Overheard after one performance, “Wow, they sound just like the bands did back when I was young!”

CBJO’s musical director has an absolute passion for big band jazz and strives to educate and guide the band to performance excellence, often using the original arrangements. With decades as a performer, educator, and director, he leads the band holding true to the musical styles of the 1940s as performed by Miller, Dorsey, Basie, and many more. Clearly, the CBJO experience is one that will not soon be forgotten! Come enjoy our performance of the Swing Dance standards from yesteryear, whether you come to “cut a rug” or just listen, don’t miss CBJO’s appearance at this year’s Lancaster Roots and Blues!

Bring your dancing shoes!