The Knoxville Jazz Orchestra was founded in 1999 by trumpeter, arranger, and composer Vance Thompson. Since that time, the band has appeared on jazz festivals in the United States and Europe, released four critically acclaimed CD recordings and presented scores of concerts, many featuring world-renowned guest artists.
The Knoxville Jazz Orchestra is so excited to announce our 2022-23 concert season! Join us for a series of unforgettable performances featuring internationally acclaimed guest artists backed by our 17 piece big band! Season subscription renewals begin Monday, May 16, 2022 at 10am. Tickets for individual shows will go on sale Monday, July 11, 2022 at 10am.
PRICING
- Season Subscriptions: 5 concerts for $195.50. Subscribers enjoy a 10% discount over single ticket pricing and get preferred seating accommodations.
- Note: Price does not include applicable service fees.
- Group discounts are available. Please contact Susan Rodenbeck for more information.
RENEWING SUBSCRIBERS
- Renewing subscribers have until Friday, July 8th to renew their seats from the 2021-2022 season.
- Since your seats are already reserved, you must renew by phone. Call 865-684-1200 ext 2.
HOW TO ORDER
- New subscriptions can be purchased online. Click here to order.
- Call 865-684-1200 ext 2 to renew or order new tickets by phone. Renewals begin May 16th at 10am.
The box office is open for calls Monday-Friday from 10am-5pm.
2022-2023 CONCERT SEASON

Ellington & Strayhorn with Eric Reed
Tuesday, October 18, 2022, 8:00pm | Bijou Theatre
Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn are towering figures in jazz music specifically and American music in general. The pair are responsible for some of the most enduring music of the 20th century. We’ll explore their vast library of masterworks for big band with Eric Reed, one of the modern era’s great pianists.

A Swingin' Christmas with Victor Provost
Tuesday, December 20, 2022, 8:00pm | Tennessee Theatre
The hippest concert of the season. Sparkling arrangements of holiday favorites in the style of Ellington, Basie and other jazz greats. Special guests include Victor Provost, one of the world’s greatest practitioners of the Steel Pan, plus vocalists Kelle Jolly and Evelyn Jack! Don’t miss the one event this season that is guaranteed to make your season bright!

Jazz is For Lovers with Dee Dee Bridgewater
Tuesday, February 14, 2023, 8:00pm | Bijou Theatre
Legendary vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater joins the KJO for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day celebration. Bridgewater’s list of accolades includes three Grammy awards, a Tony award, a UN Goodwill Ambassadorship, the NEA Jazz Master Award, and an induction into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame. Sure to be the perfect treat for your special someone.

The Diva Next Door
Tuesday, March 7, 2023, 8:00pm | Bijou Theatre
As anyone who has lived here can attest, K-town is home to more than its fair share of outstanding musicians. We turn the spotlight to our amazing vocalists in this special program, featuring Robinella Bailey, Kayley Farmer, Jeanine Fuller, Evelyn Jack, Kelly Jolly, Cait Lunsford, Stina Nesbit, Brent Thompson and a few surprises as well!

Bird Lives featuring John Beasley and Charles McPherson
Tuesday, April 4, 2023, 8:00pm | Bijou Theatre
Conductor, arranger and pianist John Beasley marked the centennial of Charlie ‘Bird’ Parker’s birth by reimagining some of Parker’s music for big band with string orchestra. The project earned Beasley a Grammy award and invitations to perform at major venues around the globe. We’ll present Beasley’s arrangements of Parker’s work with Charles McPherson, one of the most celebrated alto saxophonists working in jazz today.