The Sanford Jazz Ensemble began as the “Altamonte Jazz Ensemble” which for decades, under the direction of Mike Arena, brought the gift of jazz to the Central Florida community.
After Mike’s passing in 2010, the band moved to historic downtown Sanford and is excited to call the beautiful Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center its home. Now under the direction of Dave Weaver, the Sanford Jazz Ensemble has expanded its repertoire beyond traditional big band jazz to include original arrangements of classic and contemporary pop, R&B and funk tunes.
The SJE is made up solely of community musicians who donate their time and talent to perform live jazz for Central Florida audiences. A 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the band relies on those who enjoy the music and donate to keep the SJE “swinging.”