Paul Lichty Jazz Orchestra + Wave Cage

The Paul Lichty Jazz Orchestra (PLJO) is an 17-piece large jazz ensemble that performs Paul’s original compositions and arrangements exclusively. Since his first composition lessons with Chris Merz and Bob Washut back in 2014, Paul has developed a unique and personal approach at composing for large ensembles. His voice is on full display in PLJO's debut album, "Dark Soul," recorded June of 2019. This record, completely crowdfunded with financial support from over 60 donors, includes seven original compositions and one arrangement of Paul’s and can be heard on all streaming platforms and available for purchase on Bandcamp. In addition to recording "Dark Soul", the band's recent highlights include a main stage performance at Capital City PrideFest (Des Moines) with Domita Sanchez and Dakota Andersen, collaboration shows with Wave Cage and Annie Kemble, and a yearly Halloween show at Noce.

In addition to writing for PLJO, Paul is an active freelance composer, arranger, and trombonist. He is a member of the brass band BYOBrass and performs regularly with the Max Wellman Big Band, NOLA Jazz Band, and BONORAMA. Almost every ensemble that he performs with regularly performs his compositions or arrangements. Paul has arranged music for contemporary jazz giants Kurt Rosenwinkel and Ben Wendel in addition to contributing music for Michael Conrad’s new project, the Iowa Jazz Composer’s Orchestra, an elite ensemble that performs works by Iowa composers. As music director for the band BYOBrass, Paul regularly contributes compositions and arrangements which have helped develop and refine the band’s unique approach to the brass band medium. Other recent projects include serving as music director and arranger for "The Domita Show", a new cabaret at Noce featuring Domita Sanchez as well as arranging music for the newly formed Iowa Pride Ensembles, and commissions for Roosevelt (Des Moines), Marion, and Winterset High Schools as well as Purdue University's athletic bands. In 2024, Paul was recipient of the CJC Des Moines Hall of Fame "Next Generation" award which recognizes an up-and-coming musician who has made an impact on the music scene in Des Moines.

 

 

Wave Cage is Ryan Garmoe (trumpet and electronics), Nolan Schroeder (sax and electronics), Jarrett Purdy (synths and keyboards), and Chris Jensen (drums). Their debut project, ThePortrait EP, was described by Little Village Magazine as “an engaging, atmospheric, beautifully produced, and humorous recording”, and by the River Cities’ Reader as “evoking the smooth melodies and diverse textures of early Weather Report; the ambitious, everything-but-the-kitchen-sink arrangements of groups such as Jaga Jazzist; and the more genre-agnostic trip-hop beat decisions of such projects as Thievery Corporation and Zero 7.” The band’s latest album, Even You Can See in the Dark, is dedicated to DIY music and art scenes everywhere. It’s a celebration of how collaboration nurtures creative communities,creates a sense of belonging, and encourages artistic and personal growth.

 

Saxes: Chris Merz, Tyler Utter, Nolan Schroeder, Simon Harding, Lynne Hart

Trumpets: Antonio Garza, Ryan Garmoe, Dave Rezek, Kyle Marlin

Trombones: Rich Medd, Kristen Engelhardt, Collin Krukow, Zach Gignac

Rhythm: Elvis Phillips, Jarrett Purdy, Blake Shaw, Chris Jensen