The Hartford Jazz Orchestra (HJO) began its Monday night ritual in October 1965 at King Philip Middle School in West Hartford, under the direction of Hall High School band director, Bill Stanley. The band continued under the same leadership, at the same location, until the early 1970s, when it moved to Manchester Community College. During this period, it was operated under Bob Vater, who was on the teaching staff at MCC. Briefly, the band suffered from a lack of quality musicians and spotty attendance. But the group began working with a series of new and interesting musical arrangements.

In April 2022, the HJO began its current era, performing weekly at Elicit Brewing in Manchester, CT. While continuing to honor its past, the band is committed to moving forward artistically and pushing musical boundaries. Its members are some of the foremost jazz artists and music educators in New England. Former Maynard Ferguson musical director and pianist, Earl MacDonald succeeded Trenner, and contributes fresh, contemporary arrangements. The future looks bright! The band is making plans to record their first album.