Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra Seeking New Executive Director

The Seattle Repertoire Jazz Orchestra is the only permanent, professional big band orchestra in the Pacific Northwest, founded in 1995 by saxophonist Michael Brockman and drummer Clarence Acox.

Brockman and Acox have served as co-artistic directors of the nonprofit since its inception. Brockman also served as Executive Director, handling all business and administrative functions.

After nearly three decades, Brockman has decided to step back from the administrative role and will focus exclusively on implementing the organization’s artistic vision.

“For 27 years, Michael has done a phenomenal job in his combined roles as Executive Director and Co-Artistic Director of SRJO,” Joe Renn, Chairman of SRJO’s Board of Directors, said in a press release. in the black, selling out their performances in Seattle, Kirkland and Edmonds, and bringing in world-class guest soloists to perform with the band.

“We’ve built an award-winning ensemble, a highly regarded music education program, and far-reaching community outreach programs,” Renn continued. “Michael has held two very big jobs simultaneously and he will now focus entirely on his real music.”

“I’m thrilled with this change,” Brockman said in the press release. “A dedicated and dynamic CEO will take our entire organization to the next level of development. I look forward to focusing on the music and working even more closely with the great members of our group.

Clarence Acox has retired from conducting and performing with the orchestra and now holds an advisory position as co-founder and artistic director emeritus.

Acox also leaves a strong legacy of commitment to jazz music and education. SRJO honored Acox by naming its education program after him. The Clarence Acox Jazz Scholars Program provides one-to-one instruction to underserved students at several Seattle middle and high schools.

“Clarence will remain at the heart and soul of the band,” Brockman said.

Acox and Brockman were both inducted into Earshot Jazz’s Seattle Jazz Hall of Fame.

SRJO’s repertoire draws from over 100 years of jazz, including works by America’s most famous jazz composers.

The orchestra expands its repertoire every year by adding new works and commissions original works from well-known jazz musicians such as bassist Christian McBride and saxophonist Joshua Redman. Most recently, SRJO featured guest saxophonist Tia Fuller.

SRJO includes many of the region’s most notable soloists and conductors, and is itself an award-winning ensemble. Another full season of SRJO performances is scheduled for 2022-23 at Benaroya Hall in Seattle and the Kirkland Performance Center.

The new general manager will be responsible for the administrative and strategic orientation of the SRJO in order to promote the jazz of large ensembles. The complete job description is available here.

The board will immediately begin the search for an executive director, and Renn said he hopes to fill the position by the fall.