This core belief has always been at the heart of our organization. When musicians and lifelong friends Orbert Davis and Mark Ingram saw the powerful impact of the arts on elementary school students, they founded a music education program to expand the number of lives music could touch. In 2004, Orbert Davis received an invitation from the Jazz Institute of Chicago to “think big” when planning his appearance at that year's Jazz Festival, and the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic was born. This performance marked the first time a resident Chicago Jazz artist headlined the festival, not to mention being accompanied by a 55-piece jazz orchestra. Shortly after, the decision was made to combine the music education program and the orchestra, creating a unique education-centered performing ensemble.

CJP Values:

• Art: We combine classical, jazz, and cultural music traditions, performed by a professional orchestra, to create fresh, new musical experiences for audiences in Chicago and around the world.

• Accessibility: Our work with young people makes music education and performance more accessible while also building valuable life skills.

• Diversity: We bring diverse perspectives together through performance and education; our diverse ensemble is 40-50% people of color.