OUR HISTORY
Since 1983, WAYJO has been giving young jazz musicians outstanding artistic and professional opportunities to work with top band leaders, local and touring guest artists, and to participate in regional, national, and international tours and exchange programs.
A unique hothouse for Australia’s young jazz musicians, WAYJO provides the bridge from aspiring musician to industry professional.
Our three big band ensembles rehears weekly and perform a diverse range of jazz styles at Perth’s premier venues, as well as providing entertainment for corporate and private events.
Perth’s vibrant live jazz scene is a testament to the power of the WAYJO experience. Almost every jazz, swing, lounge and big band now performing in Perth has current or past members of WAYJO. Local jazz giants – Jamie Oehlers, Libby Hammer, the late Graham Wood and Carl Mackey – all played their way through WAYJO. Some past WAYJO members making their way overseas include Linda Oh, Troy Roberts, Daniel Susnjar, Graeme Blevins, Becc Sanderson and Mat Jodrell.
WAYJO Alumni have taken the music world by storm and pop up in touring rock, pop, jazz and musical stage show bands across the globe.
Inspiring the next generation
“inspiring young musicians through exceptional ensemble training and performance opportunities.”
Our Bands
Catalyst Jazz Orchestra
Inspired by the big bands of the 1930s to the 1960s
Directed by trumpeter and composer Ricki Malet, the Catalyst Jazz Orchestra is inspired by the big bands of the 1930s to the 1960s – led by such icons as Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Thad Jones, Mel Lewis, Woody Herman and Stan Kenton. It focuses on developing ensemble playing to a high standard, while grooving to classic big band repertoire.
Was previously known as the Monday Night Orchestra.
Dynamic Jazz Orchestra
Playing the Big Band greats from the 1950s through to today
Led by horn player and arranger Marty Pervan and with a repertoire of jazz, blues and Latin classics from Basie through to Bossa Nova, and Billie Holiday to Bob Mintzer, the Dynamic Jazz Orchestra plays the greats from the 1950s through to today, with skill and infectious energy.
Was previously known as the Tuesday Night Orchestra.
Resonance Jazz Orchestra
WAYJO’s premier ensemble
Led by WAYJO’s Artistic Director Gemma Farrell, the Resonance Jazz Orchestra is WAYJO’s premier ensemble, focused on performing innovative contemporary music from award-winning Australian and international composers, as well as some of the country’s best young and emerging talent.
Was previously known as the Wednesday Night Orchestra.
