Sean Nelson Jazz Orchestra

The Sean Nelson Jazz Orchestra, described by Jazz Weekly as a “full-bodied and polished brassy big band,” is made up of 17 of the finest musicians in New England. This extraordinary ensemble will be featured in the 2026 Branford Jazz Series lineup on August 6, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. behind the Branford Town Green.

Formed in 2016 as the New London Big Band, the group has spent the past nine years performing monthly to sold-out crowds at Social Bar + Kitchen. Their performances have taken them across the country, including appearances at the Kennedy Center, Birdland Jazz Club, Monk’s Jazz Club, and Hallowed Halls.

The orchestra has released three albums, most recently Don’t Stop Now: The Lost Music of Thad Jones for Harry James, which reached No. 29 on the jazz radio charts.

Rooted in the Kansas City swing tradition of Count Basie, the band has been praised by All About Jazz as “swinging high, hard, and hot.” The Day of New London noted that bandleader Sean Nelson has assembled a youthful, sharp, and dynamic 17-piece ensemble dedicated to proving that big band music remains an electrifying live experience capable of energizing audiences and filling dance floors across generations.

The orchestra’s impressive lineup includes five saxophonists, four trumpeters, four trombonists, plus piano, guitar, bass, and drums. Representing 10 states, the musicians collectively hold 30 music degrees, with seven serving as music professors.

“We’re thrilled to be invited back to the 2026 Branford Jazz Series and to be a part of such a community-oriented event. Branford Jazz enables SNJO to share the joy we find in making music—it’s one of our favorite shows to do,” said Nelson.