Duke Ellington's rhythm section at the Hurricane Ballroom, 1943

Salt City Jazz Orchestra

Syracuse/CNY's Basie-forward big band

17-piece jazz orchestra • biweekly rehearsals • authentic repertory • available for concerts and events

What We Do

A disciplined large-ensemble project rooted in the Basie tradition: authentic charts, strong section playing, sustainable rehearsals, and a clear path to performance in Central New York.

Authentic Repertory

Professionally published Basie charts and related big-band classics, performed with close attention to style, phrasing, time feel, and ensemble clarity.

Biweekly Reading Sessions

Regular evening rehearsals designed to build continuity, section confidence, and real large-ensemble cohesion without requiring a weekly commitment.

Built to Perform

We are forming a reliable roster and sub list with public performances in mind: showcases, jazz series, fundraisers, dances, and private events.

Coming Up

Rehearsals and performances.

Founding Season Now Forming

Salt City Jazz Orchestra is currently assembling its founding roster and sub list for biweekly reading sessions in Syracuse/CNY. Musicians can join the intake list now, and presenters can inquire about future dates, showcase opportunities, and special events.

Quick Info

  • Syracuse / Central New York
  • Biweekly evening rehearsals
  • 17-piece jazz orchestra
  • Basie-forward repertory
  • Concerts, series, dances, & events

Book the Orchestra

Classic big-band swing for concerts, series, fundraisers, dances, and private events. Salt City Jazz Orchestra is a Syracuse/CNY 17-piece jazz orchestra delivering Basie-forward swing, strong ensemble writing, and a polished audience-ready presentation.

Inquire About Booking

Perfect for

  • Performing arts centers
  • Jazz series & festivals
  • Theaters & concert halls
  • Universities, libraries, & civic organizations
  • Fundraising events
  • Private celebrations

Join the Founding Roster

Salt City Jazz Orchestra is building a disciplined 17-piece Basie-forward big band for biweekly reading sessions and future gigs in Syracuse/CNY. Students, faculty, and proficient adult players are welcome. Strong readers will benefit from real large-ensemble repertory, section playing, and a clear path into the active roster and sub list.

Complete the intake form, we review by instrument and chair needs, then follow up with reading-session details. Chairs are assigned according to instrumentation needs, ensemble balance, and program goals.

Directed by Jason St George

Salt City Jazz Orchestra is led by Jason St George, a UNT-trained jazz musician, teacher, and ensemble leader building a serious Basie-forward reading and performance orchestra for Central New York. With a deep library of professionally published charts and a long-term commitment to the region, the project is designed to be both musically rigorous and sustainable.

Contact the Orchestra
"Salt City Jazz Orchestra builds on Syracuse's long big-band tradition with a Basie-focused reading band for strong student, faculty, and community players."
About the Orchestra