Continuing their monthly appearance on our stage, the Michael Leonhart Orchestra (MLO) is a genre–crossing large ensemble that has been putting on electrifying shows for the past two years. The MLO features players from such notable units as Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, the Mingus Big Band, the Maria Schneider Orchestra, and the “Tonight Show” band ( The Roots). The repertoire encompasses Leonhart’s original compositions – including the spectacular 2018 album The Painted Lady Suite – alongside his arrangements of compositions by Wu–Tang Clan, Fela Kuti, Duke Ellington, and Bernard Herrmann. This latest recording has been highlighted as one of the Top 10 Jazz Albums of 2018 by Paste Magazine. The son of noted bassist Jay Leonhart, GRAMMY Award winner Michael Leonhart is a much sought–after trumpeter, producer, and arranger who has performed in concert with Steely Dan since 1996 and played on Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars’ international hit “Uptown Funk."
Michael Leonhart – leader, trumpet
Sachal Vasandani – vocals
Philip Dizack, Dave Guy, Jordan McLean, Carter Yasutake – trumpets
Ray Mason – trombone
Ian Hendrickson–Smith – tenor saxophone
Jason Marshall – baritone saxophone
Sarah Schoenbeck – bassoon
Nathan Koci– accordion
Robbie Mangano– guitar
Joe Martin – bass
Kevin Raczka – drums
Elizabeth Pupo Walker – percussion