Definition of the Name
We have chosen the name The Harlem Renaissance Orchestra for several reasons. Harlem is the birthplace of several of our members, while the word renaissance means rebirth or revival. Our mission is to revive the music of the Big Band Era and to preserve this music in its living form by giving recognition to the following great creators: Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Pops Louie Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Lucky Millinder, Earl Fatha Hines, Billy Eckstine, Lionel Hampton, and others. Our goal is to reestablish Harlem as the Big Band Mecca of the world.
The History of HRO
With the combined efforts of Ron Allen Director/Leader, Aston Beckford and Agonsa Frye, the Harlem Renaissance Orchestra (H.R.O.) was created over twenty years ago. Mr. Herbie Jones, a former trumpeter and arranger in the Duke Ellington Orchestra, was a mentor and supporter of the Harlem Renaissance Orchestra.
The orchestra maintains a nucleus of ten (10) veteran musicians. These musicians have engaged in performances around the world and acquired college degrees in Music Performance and in Education. As a result, their contributions have provided a firm foundation over a span of twenty years. Collectively and with conscious effort, we have been able to blend the talents of fine young musicians with more mature musicians, thus producing a sound that is enjoyed by music lovers of all ages.
For several years, The H.R.O. was showcased at an established landmark in Harlem called, Willie's Lounge. Willie's Lounge became a popular spot for lindy hoppers and swing dancers as they danced to the sound of The H.R.O. every Monday night. After the closure of Willie's Lounge, the H.R.O. relocated to another famous landmark in Harlem, Well's Restaurant. H.R.O. was showcased at Well's Restaurant every Monday night and had an enormous following of swing dancers, tourists from all over the world and fine musicians anticipating perhaps membership in this energized band. After showcasing the orchestra, we were offered many engagements at famous locations throughout New York City, The Village Gate, Swing 46, Town Hall, Lincoln Center, The Schomburg Library, Flushing Town Hall, The Apollo Theatre and many other well-known establishments throughout the tri-state area. The H.R.O also performed at weddings, and at political or private functions. Currently we are performing at Swing "46" on Monday nights.