Guest Ensembles
The National Jazz Workshop (NJW) proudly presents a lineup of acclaimed guest ensembles each summer, offering an unparalleled opportunity to learn from, play alongside, and be inspired by some of today’s most accomplished jazz artists.
World-Class Ensembles. Once-in-a-Lifetime Access.
Zachary Smith &
The Mardi Gras Kings
Zachary Smith has been performing on the East Coast for more than 30 years. His group, Zachary Smith & the Mardi Gras Kings (formerly known as the “Dixie Power Trio”) brings a unique blend of zydeco, Cajun, New Orleans jazz and funk to every show. With a passion for delivering lively and unforgettable performances, they are dedicated to making your event truly exceptional.
The U.S. Army Blues
The U.S. Army Blues, part of the United States Army Band “Pershing’s Own,” is the premier jazz ensemble of the US Army. After informal beginnings in 1970, this 19-piece ensemble became an official element of the Army Band in 1972. The Army Blues strive to fulfill their mission through public concerts, educational outreach, and the preservation of the tradition of America’s unique art form: jazz.
Steve Williams
Mighty Little Big Band
The Steve Williams Mighty Little Big Band is a powerhouse ensemble that delivers full-throttle big band energy with the tight precision of a small group. Led by Steve Williams, the Mighty Little Big Band blends sharp arrangements, bold solos, and infectious swing into a musically rich and irresistibly fun experience.
JazzWorx Big Band
JazzWorx Big Band is a sophisticated 17-piece ensemble showcasing a dynamic roster of top-tier jazz musicians from the D.C. Metropolitan and Northern Virginia area. With a deep commitment to musical excellence, JazzWorx thrills audiences with its unique blend of classic big band swing and contemporary jazz innovations. The group’s signature “small group within the big band” approach spotlights its exceptional soloists, offering intimate, expressive moments that contrast beautifully with the band’s powerful full-ensemble sound—creating performances that are both electrifying and artistically rich.
The Capitol Bones
All-Brass Big Band
The Capitol Bones, a Washington, D.C., premiere jazz trombone ensemble, offers something exciting and new for jazz lovers everywhere, with an added treat for those treasured listeners who appreciate and seek out great trombone playing. Group founder and leader Matt Niess brought together jazz trombonists in the Washington, D.C., area to participate in a group dedicated to promoting not only great ensemble playing but the expansion of the repertoire of this unique medium.
Mike Kamuf Little Big Band
The Mike Kamuf Little Big Band brings together eight talented jazz musicians from the Washington D.C./Baltimore region. The group’s repertoire consists of original compositions and arrangements penned by MIke Kamuf, as well as jazz standards and selections from the Great American Songbook. The arrangements cover many styles within the jazz idiom. The group’s instrumentation and arrangements provide both the musicians and the audience with the subtlety and spontaneity of a small group coupled with the impact and excitement of a big band.
Mike Tomaro Quintet
Led by internationally renowned saxophonist, composer, and arranger Mike Tomaro, this dynamic quintet delivers a high-energy blend of sophisticated compositions, inventive improvisation and deep groove. With a lineup of seasoned jazz virtuosos, the Mike Tomaro Quintet brings a fresh and compelling voice to the modern jazz scene, seamlessly bridging tradition and innovation.
Mathuin Smith Jazz Orchestra
Bold, imaginative, and unapologetically powerful, the Mathuin Smith Jazz Orchestra is a boundary-pushing large ensemble redefining what modern big band can be. Under the direction of composer, arranger and conductor Mathuin Smith, the orchestra fuses innovative original works with adventurous takes on jazz traditions, creating a sound that is both cerebral and deeply soulful.
