A Modern Big Band with Classic Swing

Founded by Curt Hanrahan, the Milwaukee Jazz Orchestra brings together an all-star roster of Wisconsin musicians dedicated to keeping the big band tradition alive while embracing original compositions and fresh arrangements. Their performances blend timeless swing with contemporary jazz, delivering music that is soulful, energetic, and unmistakably their own.

A Legacy of Swing

The orchestra grew from Hanrahan’s work with the annual Woody Herman Jazz Festival, where he assembled outstanding local musicians to perform alongside legendary guest artists. Inspired by those collaborations, he expanded the ensemble into a year-round big band featuring original music and educational outreach. Today, the Milwaukee Jazz Orchestra continues to honor Woody Herman’s legacy through exceptional performances and a commitment to advancing big band jazz.

Artistic Director : Board of Directors

Saxophonist and Educator –Curt Hanrahan

Drummer – Warren Hanrahan

Saxophone

Julia Bustle

Olivia Dobbs

Curt Hanrahan

Kyle Seifert

Nolan Thomas

Rosemary Walzer ​

Trumpet

Mike Betz

Paul Dietrich

Krystal Esty

Greg Garcia

Neil Harmon

Russ Johnson

Jon Schipper

Nate Weiss

Trombone

Jay Allison

Kurt Dietrich

Mark Hoelscher

Mike Lizzo

Erik Ripley

Emmy Rozanski

Kyle Samuelson

Ken Wiele ​

Guitar

Steve Lewandowski

Piano

Jim Sodke

Johannes Wallman

Bass

Larry Tresp

Tim Hanrahan ​

Drums

Dave Bayles

Warren Hanrahan

Scott Wendell ​

Percussion:

Tyshawn Allen Harris

Eddy Magallenes

Bony Plog-Benavides

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