The development of jazz music’s early foundation was greatly defined by Kansas City’s stylistic contributions to the genre. Popular songs like “In The Mood” and “Shake, Rattle, and Roll” were largely written in the riff-based style that emerged from Kansas City, and the city’s “jam session” cultivation of the music still lives in clubs and basements around the world.

Through KCJO’s platform, we wish to shine a brighter light on this essential component of jazz, and Kansas City’s fundamental place in music history. We will add a stand-alone performance series of new, highly collaborative compositions in a modern examination of the Kansas City “riff style.” Musicians will audition for a one-year residency and perform these works in a variety of settings. This series allows KCJO to engage more local musicians and develop new audience members.