Portland Jazz Composers Ensemble

The Portland Jazz Composers Ensemble is a US nonprofit organisation based in Portland, Oregon. It operates as a 12-piece jazz chamber orchestra, supported by an active record label named PJCE Records and a podcast titled "Beyond Category." The ensemble focuses on commissioning and performing new music by a diverse range of local jazz composers.

Mission and Activities

The Portland Jazz Composers Ensemble aims to celebrate and promote original jazz compositions by both established and emerging artists. It fosters a vibrant community within Portland's jazz scene by providing an outlet for jazz musicians and composers to share their work.

PJCE Records

PJCE Records is a grassroots recording label associated with the ensemble. It releases albums monthly, either digitally or in limited CD pressings, to document the various original works created by Portland area jazz composers and improvisers. This effort helps encourage the dissemination of new jazz music and supports local artistic development.

Performance and Community Engagement

In addition to their performances with the 12-piece chamber orchestra, the ensemble also supports smaller groups like sextets. They regularly feature PJCE Records artists in events such as Happy-Hour Jazz nights, promoting original compositions and engaging with the local music community. The ensemble's performances often blend jazz with other genres, such as R&B and blues, showcasing a diverse musical palette.

Notable Projects

One notable project is a song cycle created by composer Ezra Weiss and lyricist S. Renee Mitchell, known as "From Maxville to Vanport." This project highlights the ensemble's ability to execute complex jazz arrangements while incorporating vocal performances, as seen with vocalist Marilyn Keller. The ensemble's music often features thoughtful instrument solos and rich textures, reflecting a strong connection to the music they perform.

Governance and Structure

The Portland Jazz Composers Ensemble is led by an executive director who oversees its various activities, including performances and recording projects. As a nonprofit organization, it relies on community support and donations to continue its mission of promoting new jazz music. The organization is registered with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 27-3463696.

Impact and Legacy

Through its performances and recordings, the Portland Jazz Composers Ensemble contributes significantly to Portland's rich cultural landscape by nurturing the local jazz community. It provides a platform for emerging composers to gain recognition and contributes to the legacy of jazz innovation in the Pacific Northwest.