Jazz Standard has been the site of exceptional performances by some of the finest big bands of the past quarter–century: the Maria Schneider Orchestra, the Oliver Lake Big Band, the Gil Evans Centennial Band, and more. In 2020, Jazz Standard continues to set the pace with monthly appearances by the Michael Leonhart Orchestra (MLO), a genre–crossing 15–piece ensemble that has been putting on electri­fying shows for more than two years. The MLO performs GRAMMY Award winner Leonhart’s original compositions alongside his imaginative arrangements of songs by (among others) Wu-Tang Clan, Fela Kuti, Duke Ellington, and Frank Zappa. His ensemble features players from such esteemed organizations as the Dap–Kings, the Mingus Big Band, and “The Tonight Show” band (The Roots). Join us tonight as the MLO celebrates with The Valentine Show! Michael Leonhart – conductor, trumpet Jamie Leonhart – vocals Carter Yasutake, Dave Guy, Freddie Hendrix – trumpet Adam Dotson – trombone Jeff Nelson – bass trombone Chris Bullock – woodwinds Jason Marshall – baritone saxophone Claudia Chopek, Ludovica Burtone – violin Sara Schoenbeck – bassoon Nathan Koci – accordion Robbie Mangano – guitar Joe Martin – bass E.J. Strickland – drums Brian Adler – percussion