The Hartford Jazz Project is a unique big band that was formed for 2 reasons, to address the lack of diversity in Connecticut Big Bands and to show that the Hartford Sound in Jazz translates works for both small groups and big bands. The idea for this band came up when its co-founders Haneef N. Nelson and Andrew Wilcox were discussing the lack of diversity in the Big Bands that they play in/have listened to in Connecticut. This was highlighted during a recording session with the Jason Robinson Big Band where Haneef was not the only or one of the few Black persons in the band. After discussing this experience with Andrew, they thought they should form a Big Band for the Jazz Wednesday event that reflected more of what Hartford looks and sounds like, thus the Hartford Jazz Project was born. Stay tuned for part 2.