Why the CJO?
As we celebrate our 40th year, we’re sharing stories and memories from CJO board members (current and former) and fans.
Vince Robinson
CJO Board Member, May 2023 - Present
Vince Robinson
What sparked your love for jazz?
My journey with jazz began in earnest when I was a student at Kent State University. Though I was exposed to the genre as I child, it began to resonate when one of my instructors shared the music of Arthur Blythe, Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane with me. After listening to a few of their albums, I was hooked.
“Jazz is an evolutionary art form and its evolution should be embraced along with the idea that it has to be preserved. ”
What is one of your fondest memories from a jazz concert?
I saw Chris Coles’ Nine Lives Project at the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival in September 2024. Seeing his vision come to life in an orchestral setting with animation, dance, hip hop married with jazz was a phenomenal experience!
What do you hope to have achieved by the end of your time on the Board?
Although difficult to quantify, I would like to see a greater awareness of the organization’s footprint on the landscape of jazz in this city and its mission share the greatness of the music with diverse audiences. I would also like to see greater diversity in the orchestra and the board of trustees with respect to ethnicity, age and gender, as well as the music itself. Jazz is an evolutionary art form and its evolution should be embraced along with the idea that it has to be preserved.
What are 3-5 reasons to see the CJO this season?
Sean Jones.
Terri Lyne Carrington.
Original works by local jazz musicians.
The CJO brings the music to life!
“What makes [the CJO] unique is the sincere energy involved in amplifying the music of jazz in our community, particularly in educating young people. ”