The Gathering Orchestra (professional development program)

Rodney Whitaker, Artistic Director

Walter Blanding, Mentor (reeds)

Vincent Chandler, Mentor (trombones)

Timothy Blackmon, Mentor (trumpets and arranging)

 The Gathering Orchestra is a 22 piece intergenerational jazz ensemble composed of young professional jazz musicians (chosen through audition) with a veteran mentor for each section of the orchestra. The orchestra is designed to give young professionals the opportunity to hone their “chops” working alongside veteran players, and presenting music to the community. It is a two-year fellowship program. Each year of the program, the orchestra participates in three week long residencies in winter, spring and fall. Each residency includes professional development seminars, rehearsals, technical skill training, and a culminating public concert performance. 

Also during the week, the orchestra will split into nonets with each nonet engaging in community outreach and arts education in schools and other neighborhood locations. By working in the schools, The Gathering exposes youth to jazz music, potentially fostering their interests in the art form as a creative or as a member of the audience