Jazz comes to City Hall theatre tonight and tomorrow night in the form of the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, described as "one of the most acclaimed and innovative bands in jazz history".

The VJO has evolved from a long history of association with jazz greats, and the orchestra serves as a creative outlet for some of the foremost performers, composers and arrangers of the day.

Back in the 1960s cornetist, composer and arranger Thad Jones played trumpet with Count Basie, and Mel Lewis drummed with Woody Herman, Stan Kenton and Benny Goodman.

Having settled in New York after leaving their respective touring jobs, the two men were looking for an outlet for their creative energies. They approached legendary club owner Max Gordon and were booked for three Mondays in February 1966.

Their collaborative effort, first known as the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra, was born on February 7, 1966. Critical acclaim, awards and international success followed. In 1979 Jones left the band and Lewis stayed on. The Mel Lewis Orchestra was joined by Bob Brookmeyer, whose writing continued the innovation and influence begun by the original founders. Also included were Richard Davis, Snooky Young and Jerome Richardson, among others.

Together, they brought all of their collective experience to bear in an ensemble which has survived longer than any other combo of comparable quality, and four decades later today's VJO continues to uphold the tradition of its venerable forerunners. Indeed, the orchestra serves as a creative outlet for some of the foremost performers, composers and arrangers of the day.

So all indications are that Bermuda Festival jazz fans can expect to enjoy a very special experience, and a memorable night out.

Performances begin at 8 p.m. For ticket/further information see the Bermuda Calendar.