Steely Dan…Bruno Mars…Meryl Streep…Ringo Starr…Karrin Allyson…These are just a few of the art­ists who’ve sought out Michael Leonhart for his exceptional skills as a composer, arranger, producer, and instrumentalist. But the project closest to his heart is the Michael Leonhart Orchestra, whose spectacular debut album The Painted Lady Suite (Sunnyside, 2018) captures the power and beauty of this 21–piece band. The MLO includes members of the Village Vanguard Orchestra, the Maria Schneider Orchestra, the Dap–Kings, Menahan Street Band and Antibalas: “My idea was to get an all–star mix of soloists, ensem­ble players and pocket–players who would be as comfortable playing Mingus and Ellington as they would be playing Wu–Tang and Fela Kuti,” says Michael Leonhart. “It was also important to me to steer clear of the traditional ‘big band’ instrumentation and have bassoon, accordion, bass harmonica and strings.” Michael Leonhart – leader Philip Dizack, Dave Guy, Jordan Maclean, Carter Yasutake – trumpets Ray Mason – trombone John Ellis – tenor saxophone Ian Hendrickson–Smith – tenor saxophone & flute Brandon Wright – baritone saxophone Sarah Schoenbeck – bassoon Pauling Kim – violin Christine Kim – cello Ron Oswanski – accordion Robbie Mangano, Al Street – guitar Joe Martin – bass Kevin Raczka – drums Elizabeth Pupo Walker – percussion With Special Guest Randy Brecker – trumpet