On April 28, 2022, something very special will happen in the Jack Singer Concert Hall. For the first time ever, Arts Commons and JazzYYC come together to form the Canadian National Jazz Orchestra, welcoming members from across the country to represent the best in live jazz orchestral performance.

With original compositions reflecting the theme Stories of Canada, we wanted to hear directly from a few of the performers about why they're excited to be involved in the project and how they feel it will influence the future of jazz music in Canada. Their answers are filled with excitement, hope, and inspiration for the next generation of Canadian jazz musicians.