The Reno Jazz Orchestra
with Kathleen Grace
What's coming up
All events
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RJO Music Director
Greg Johnson
Dr. Greg Johnson is an emerging force in jazz, recognized for his distinctive saxophone sound and diverse compositional style spanning jazz, classical, and popular music. As a sought-after saxophonist, he has performed with jazz legends and toured with major pop and rock artists, appearing on over 40 recordings. Now, the Reno Jazz Orchestra has appointed him as their new Music Director.
Greg Johnson’s website features his "Pro Series" which delivers challenging, playable big‑band charts that are meticulously engraved for clarity.
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RYJO Music Director
Nichole Heglund
Nichole Heglund is a leading music educator and musician in Northern Nevada and California. Since moving to Reno in 2003, she has taught jazz ensembles, bands, and choirs at several schools and now teaches at Verdi and Veterans Elementary.
She became Education Director for the Reno Jazz Orchestra in 2019 and now directs the Reno Youth Jazz Orchestra and Sapphire Jazz Ensemble. A saxophonist, guest conductor, and clinician, she holds degrees from UNC and UNR and lives in Reno with her husband, Andrew, and their two sons.
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Education Director
Dr. David Brennan
Dr. David Brennan understands the importance of music education. As a woodwind specialist and new member of the Reno Jazz Orchestra, Dr. Brennan is committed to giving back after years of mentorship and professional growth. As Education Director, he shares his experience to help young musicians develop their craft and confidence. He believes jazz is a bold, beautiful art form that demands respect for its lineage and the written music, calling musicians to unite in creating moments that challenge the mind, elevate the spirit, and inspire genuine awe.
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In Memory: Charles F. Hughes
Charles Hughes was a beloved fixture of the Northern Nevada music community, known for his infectious groove, steady rhythm, and passion for jazz. Over decades behind the drum kit, he brought warmth, dedication, and deep musicianship to local stages, performing alongside many of the region's finest artists. Beyond his contributions to rhythm and song, he will be remembered for his generous spirit, camaraderie, and the lasting harmonious mark he left on Reno's cultural landscape.
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Discover Jazz Workshop
The Discover Jazz Workshop
taught by Dylan Coleman-Tunstall and guest instructors
Eight Saturday morning sessions: 09/26/2026 - 11/14/2026In this 8-week program, students work on rhythmic exercises, ear training, jazz tunes, listening, improvisation, and chords and scales. These important skills will set them up for success for their school ensembles and open them up to opportunities to audition for local honor groups or the Reno Youth Jazz Orchestra.
The culminating project will be two live performances.
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Become a Legacy Society Member
As a Legacy Society member, your commitment to our mission will be honored and remembered, and your gift will help sustain the Reno Jazz Orchestra’s work in music and education. Members enjoy special events and recognition throughout the year. Legacy gifts can be made through a will, trust, or by naming the RJO as a beneficiary of financial accounts or insurance. Even a small bequest can make a lasting impact on our community’s musical future.
From the orchestra
All articlesAbout the Reno Jazz Orchestra
The Reno Jazz Orchestra has been based in Northern Nevada for over 25 years and was formed by musicians who performed and traveled the world with acts such as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Elvis Presley, Natalie Cole, Luciano Pavarotti and other legendary performers. The tradition of jazz excellence set by the founders continues today with jazz professors, educators and graduates from the University of Nevada, Reno, jazz studies program setting new performance standards.
The EL Cord Foundation, Nevada Arts Council, National Endowment for the Arts, Art Works, Thunder Rand & Co., Tanglewood Productions, City of Reno, Music, Parasol Tahoe Community Foundation, J Resort, GPS Wealth Advisors and the RJO Circle of Friends, Band Partners and Band Fans support the Reno Jazz Orchestra.
