welcome to Pan Asian Chamber Jazz Ensemble!

“…classically trained mastery of strings, piano, and drums with quick-witted compositional twists performed with high energy.” - Downbeat

“…elegantly intertwine(s) elements of classical, jazz and world folk into a new sound. …they do so by presenting precisely played ethnically inspired original compositions in an exciting modern jazz context.”
“… (some of) the best jazz New York has to offer.” - All About Jazz

“ The group delivers exactly what its name promises. …the group found a common ground in '60s-style modality, occasionally reminiscent of John Coltrane and McCoy Tyner's Eastern explorations. – New York Sun

“The vision is radical but the flawless execution and inspired delivery make it seem natural … Meg Okura defies convention by breaking through all boundaries with her revolutionary vision that is redefining our understanding of and perspective on modern music. …The music is refined, sophisticated, emotional, progressive, and hip all at once. …This is real world fusion… This is the future of instrumental music...” - World Fusion Reviews

“…very original and fresh. …It is relaxing it is invigorating. It never disappoints; rather it draws your attention throughout the entire production. The compositions are complex, the skill of the musicians is without question.” - Boudica’s Music Reviews

About PACJE

Founded in 2006 by violinist Meg Okura, Pan Asian Chamber Jazz Ensemble is one of the leading voices in “world chamber jazz” with its multi-cultural and original sounds. The players demonstrate dexterous playing on all of their instruments, including traditional instruments such as the erhu (two-stringed Chinese violin), shinobue (a Japanese bamboo flute), as well violin, flute, cello, soprano sax, piano, and world percussion.

Last season, the ensemble was awarded several grants including “Creative Connections” from the Meet The Composer, Urban Artist Initiative toward a recording of Okura’s composition “Afrasia”, Jerome Composers Commissioning Program from the American Composers Forum for the premiere of a new work in New York City in 2008. The ensemble’s self-titled debut album (2006) was one of the “Best Album” finalists in the 6th Independent Music Awards, and has received critical acclaim.

Since the ensemble’s debut at New York’s Stone in February of 2006, Pan Asian Chamber Jazz Ensemble has performed at many venues including Makor, the Next Door Jazz Festival, Saint Peters Church, “Women’s Call For Action- World AIDS Day” event, Asian Leadership Conference at the MoMA, Kumble Theater, Saint Paul’s Chapel. This year, the ensemble will be performing at the Knitting Factory for the 2008 New York City Winter Jazz Fest.

PACJE is dedicated to promoting diversity through their multi-cultural music by giving unique educational programs, including the popular “Hooked On Classics” series presented by the Lincoln Center’s “Meet The Artist School Program.” The ensemble takes classical masterpieces turned into hip and enthralling new tunes by infusing playful elements of jazz, funk, rock and varieties of world music. They invite students into the fun as they create their own musical compositions and tap into the spontaneous creativity and joy of music.

This year, PACJE is collaborating with C. Eule Dance on the production of “The Crane Wife” (Tsuru-no Ongaeshi), a Japanese folk tale, told through dance and music. Please visit www.panasianchamberjazzensemble.com for future performances of the production.