New Jazz Composers Octet November 6, 2008

With its dedication to cooperative ethos, the New Jazz Composers Octet nurtures the skills and explores the ever-expanding musical capabilities of all its members. The ensemble dates back to 1996 when trumpeter David Weiss recognized the lack of opportunities for younger composers to present serious original jazz writing. He joined forces with pianist Xavier Davis, saxophonist Myron Walden, and bassist Dwayne Burno. They recruited four more of New York's top young musicians and formed the New Jazz Composers Octet. The group's five horn front line provides an ideal setting for the composers to fully realize their compositional notions: such broad instrumentation makes for a unique and versatile ensemble.