The JOI of Jazz

The Las Vegas Jazz Society, celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, aims to support jazz in all its forms. Founded in 1975 by Monk Montgomery, the society has hosted concerts with legends like Count Basie, Herbie Hancock, and Ella Fitzgerald. To commemorate this milestone, a three-day festival is planned, starting with an exhibit at the Nevada State Museum on April 25, followed b

Dale Thompson, a trumpeter and producer, discussed his career, including his time with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and his role in producing the multi-platinum albums "In the Christmas Mood." He shared his early musical journey, starting with playing trumpet at age 11 and joining the American Federation of Musicians at 13. Thompson highlighted his work with the Escovido Latin Jazz B

Donny Thompson hosts Uli Geissendorfer, a pianist, composer, and producer, on the show "Jazz Outreach Initiatives: The Joy of Jazz." Uli discusses his musical journey, starting from his early influences in Munich, Germany, to his studies at North Texas and his move to New York City. He recounts his experiences with various jazz musicians, including Oscar Peterson, and his involveme

Donny Thompson hosts the JOI of Jazz, featuring UNLV Division of Jazz and Commercial Music Director Dave Loeb. Loeb shares his musical journey, from early piano lessons to performing with the Glenn Miller Band and Eastman School of Music. The program highlights the UNLV Jazz Ensemble's new album "Let the Good Times Roll," featuring tracks like "Let the Good Times Roll", "Chinoiseri

Linda Woodson, a singer-songwriter with a background in electrical engineering and medicine, discussed her album "Come a Little Closer" on the Joy of Jazz. She shared her songwriting process, inspired by personal experiences and emotions, and highlighted her dedication to community service through her role as Vice President of Jazz Outreach Initiative. Woodson performed "Feeling Co

In this episode of "The JOI of Jazz," host Donny Thompson dives into the rich history of The Boneheads, a legendary Las Vegas trombone ensemble formed in 1962. Joined by band members Curt Miller and Ralph Pressler, the discussion explores the band's origins, its hiatus and resurgence, and the influence of jazz greats who shaped its sound. The episode features selections from The Bo

In this episode of "The JOI of Jazz" on 91.5 FM, host Donny Thompson sits down with Gary Cordell, co-founder and VP of Education and Programming at Jazz Outreach Initiative (JOI), alongside mentor Eddie Rich and talented young musician Noah Kocinski. They delve into the mission and impact of JOI, highlighting its role in nurturing young jazz talents through the Las Vegas Youth Jaz

Join host Donny Thompson on The JOI of Jazz as he delves into the vibrant world of jazz with Dr. Isrea Butler, Chair of the UNLV School of Music and Grammy-winning trombonist for the iconic Count Basie Orchestra. In this episode, Dr. Butler discusses his latest album "Congo Lament," showcasing influences from jazz legends Benny Green and JJ Johnson. From his musical journey startin