Meet the bands of Urban Renewal Jazz

The bands featured here all support the mission of Urban Renewal Jazz. Each ensemble brings high artistry and high energy to truly memorable performances.  The groups here perform regularly at various public performances and are available for private bookings.  See the contact page for each group.

Urban Renewal Big Band

This is the largest ensemble in Urban Renewal Jazz, and the foundation for all our other activities.  Unlike other big bands in the area, the Urban Renewal Big Band performs all its own arrangements for a performance that you cannot get anywhere else.

The Finnell Factor

Led by bassist Rudy Finnell, the Finnell factor is an octet including two notable singers, performing a wide ranging program of jazz, R&B, pop hits, and great dance music.

Yvonne Allu & Friends

This ensemble features the vocal stylings of Yvonne Allu covering everything from Etta James to to Diana Krall, while adding her own interpretations to the best traditional and contemporary music.

The Jimmy Robertson Band

This group is involved primarily in promoting understanding of the major jazz traditions.  Highly educational in nature, the Jimmy Robertson Band is equally at home in schools and area clubs and events.

Sam Ash Jam Sessions

A key aspect of the urban jazz tradition is improvisation as its own distinct art form.  Improvisation has been part of music since the Renaissance and before. In the context of modern jazz, improvisation blends a mastery of complex harmonic and rhythmic structure.  This can be a life-long pursuit and can only be refined through experience.  With the support of Sam Ash Music, we conduct monthly jam sessions to help musicians hone these skills.
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