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Live with Original New Music Lars Halle Jazz Orchestra Celebrates Ten Years

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Lars Halle
Philadelphia - On Friday, January 22, 2010, the Lars Halle Jazz Orchestra (LHJO) celebrates its tenth anniversary of explosive and entertaining big band sound. Hosted by award-winning Chris' Jazz Cafe, one of Philadelphia's two dedicated jazz venues in center city, this one-of-a-kind performance of new and original jazz is sure to cause a stir in the music community, and considering that seating is limited, both fans and first-time listeners are encouraged to make reservations early.

Swedish bandleader and internationally top-selling jazz composer Lars Halle and his fellow musicians have established a loyal and attentive audience in Philadelphia, ranging from college students, aspiring musicians and young professionals, to trendy, affluent couples and lifelong connoisseurs who keep the live jazz scene thriving. New listeners can expect to hear fresh and engaging jazz performed by 17 electrifying musicians who revel in the enjoyment of presenting Halle's groundbreaking compositions and arrangements.

“Over the years, the music of the LHJO has developed and matured, yet the audience has continued to grow," says Halle. “The strongest response seems to be to our newest music, which shows us that Philadelphia still has an audience that is thirsty for new and original jazz--jazz for jazz's sake."

To have reached the ten-year milestone is quite a feat for an ensemble such as the Lars Halle Jazz Orchestra. One of perhaps ten working big bands in Philadelphia, the LHJO has shown ruthless persistence on the jazz scene, sustaining a loyal and steadfast audience, while never compromising its musical integrity. Conceivably, it must be a challenge for any musical group to stay active for a decade, let alone a big band that consists of 17 of Philadelphia's most reputable musicians.

Halle's music has consistently pushed the envelope, and the caliber of his musicians has allowed for the development of a style that keeps the audience on the edge of its seat with anticipation of what it will hear next. From blazing solos and thunderous tutti sections, to tender moments of fragile beauty, the LHJO holds the human ear hostage to the last note.

“This powerhouse group had the walls at Chris' [Jazz Cafe] shaking with their driving up tempo jazz...It was an exciting night that once again demonstrated the fantastic array of local talent in Philadelphia with so many of the musicians being well established local stars in their own right." --Donald True Van Deusen, All About Jazz (Oct. 2002)

Throughout its history, the LHJO has become a jazz identity synonymous with Philadelphia through its staple rendition of “Fly Eagles Fly" during the end credits of FOX29's “Eagles Kids' Show," its performance with Grammy award winner Jill Scott on NBC10's “Eagles: Unfinished Business" in 2004, from warming up jazz audiences for the legendary Count Basie Orchestra at the Kimmel Center, and not to mention its 9-year tenure of performances at Chris' Jazz Caf. Beyond downtown Philadelphia, the LHJO is also a favorite attraction for the Collingswood Music Festival and the Main Line Jazz and Food Festival.

In 2004 the Lars Halle Jazz Orchestra issued its first CD, “Speaking of Apropos," a recording that has received notable reviews and built a frenzied anticipation for the new CD, release expected later this year.

“The intensity and enthusiasm of Halle and his companions are readily apparent...[the LHJO] is more than respectable, as are the leader's engaging songs and tasteful charts." --Jack Bowers, AllAboutJazz.com (May 2005)

Lars Halle Jazz Orchestra's 10th Anniversary Celebration Performance, two 75-minute sets of new and original jazz with one-time $15 cover charge

Friday, January 22, 2010; first set begins at 8:00 pm and second set begins at 10:00 pm

Chris' Jazz Cafe, 1421 Sansom Street, just off the Avenue of the Arts in Philadelphia

About the Lars Halle Jazz Orchestra

The Lars Halle Jazz Orchestra is an ensemble of 17 accomplished musicians, most of whom reside in or near Philadelphia and are graduates of local colleges and universities. Bandleader Lars Halle composes and arranges the majority of the ensemble's original repertoire, while directing the band from behind the drum set. For sound samples and a promotional video, as well as a full listing of band members, please visit www.lhjo.com

About Chris' Jazz Cafe

Located around the corner from the Bellevue Hotel and just a few blocks walk from the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau in Center City, Chris' Jazz Caf is the winner of two 'Best of Philly' awards and features serious talent, both local and international. Over the past couple of decades, Chris' has become the place where jazz musicians go to hear jazz. For schedule, menu, parking and directions, visit chrisjazzcafe.com

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