Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra
The multi-award winning Wigan Youth Jazz Orchestra was formed in 1976. Essentially a training ground for young musicians, the Orchestra aims to develop the skills of its members through the performance of big band music from the 1930s to the 1990s. The repertoire is extensive and features music from Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller, Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, Buddy Rich, and many others. In addition it also features original works composed especially for the Orchestra
Under the experienced leadership of Ian Darrington, the Orchestra's reputation is such that touring has become a major part of a very busy schedule. The WYJO have released eleven albums and a forty-minute documentary video, and the recordings are broadcast regularly on radio stations throughout the world, including the BBC World Service.
