Formed in 1999, Heartland Jazz Orchestra is dedicated to preserving and furthering the classical music of America – Jazz! Their concerts feature some of the finest musicians in Central Illinois who join with eclectic regional, national, and international artists to create a wide variety of musical experiences. Heartland Jazz Orchestra is an auditioned 20-piece, traditionally-orchestrated big band and is a 501c3 not-for-profit organization whose mission is to also further jazz education to young musicians by conducting workshops and concerts featuring young musicians.

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David Hoffman is the current orchestra director and has performed with many top U.S and international bands, including Ray Charles, as Ray’s trumpet/flugelhorn soloist and composer/arranger for many years. Mr. Hoffman also has a distinguished career as a solo performer, educator, and arranger/composer.

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Our History of Jazz and pop-up concerts are made possible through a Mirza Arts and Culture Grant from the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation.  The foundation encourages and facilitates philanthropy in McLean, Livingston, DeWitt, and Logan counties by connecting donors who are with causes that matter to them.