About MJO
Since its inception in 2016, Marlonius Jazz Orchestra has wowed audiences across Greater Los Angeles. After making its BroadStage debut with Olivia Kuper Harris, as an opening act for Stanley Clarke and Hiromi in 2023, the big band solidified its position as an emerging force in the LA jazz scene. Led by virtuoso bassist MARLONIUS - aka Marlon Martinez, MJO delivers captivating Marlonius compositions, and the music of jazz legend and queer icon Billy Strayhorn. Marlonius is dedicated to revitalizing Strayhorn orchestrations made famous by the Duke Ellington Orchestra, as well as forgotten and newly discovered gems in the Strayhorn catalog. MJO has featured seasoned artists such as Tamir Hendelman, Josie James, Kye Palmer, Denise Thimes, Mike Garson, Frieda Lee, Bernard Fowler and the late Barbara Morrison. MJO's debut studio album awaits a 2026 release, produced by Stanley Clarke and featuring Olivia Kuper Harris. Current projects include a bluesy Billie Holiday tribute with Mara Kaye, backed by lush Marlonius orchestrations.
"Marlon Martinez is a tremendously gifted bassist and composer.
I watched him for many years as a bass player dazzle audiences with his ability to really stretch what you can possibly do with
that instrument.
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As a composer, he is really a force of nature, talented way beyond his years. His compositions and orchestrations are in the lineage of
Duke Ellington, Billy Strayhorn, Charles Mingus, and Thad Jones.
Not an easy lineage to master, yet somehow it falls real easily
off of Marlon’s pen.
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Marlonius Jazz Orchestra has set itself as an emerging force
in the LA jazz scene and beyond.
Marlon and his jazz orchestra are to be celebrated.
Please join me with that."
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STANLEY CLARKE
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