The LYJRO Big Band has been in existence since 1991 and was established by Education Leeds to cater for ever increasing interest in jazz from young people.

LYJRO's aim is to offer young people of Leeds the opportunity to experience through performance, the spectrum of jazz related styles ranging from swing to 'hip hop' and funk. The authority also established a training band which introduces the young people to the first steps in improvisation and jazz ensemble work.

Over the years LYJRO has organised workshops featuring eminent jazz musicians including Scott Stroman and Dave O'Higgins. LYJRO have also organised projects involving several ensembles - the most recent being the 'Global Warning' project in 2005.

LYJRO propose to return to South Africa in September 2010 to perform in the Durban Festival and undertake teaching workshops in the Ekaya Arts Centre and local schools.
To make this possible, LYJRO will need to develop a programme of extensive fundraising. We would welcome any new ideas or approaches to fundraising from members or parents as we need to start this programme ASAP.