Howard Levy, Victor Garcia & the Happy Time Orchestra

(2023 Isthmus pick) One of the good things to arise from pandemic shutdowns was the formation of The Happy Time Orchestra, the Chicago-based Latin jazz ensemble composed of founder and drummer Collin Nordine, pianist Howard Levy, trumpet player Victor Garcia, tenor saxophone player Chris Madsen, and others. It’s all upbeat or mellow original compositions in styles from songo to calypso. The band’s debut album, Of This World, was released in August 2021.

media release: The Happy Time Orchestra is a 9 Piece Latin Jazz Ensemble composed of some of Chicago’s best musicians. Featuring grammy winning Pianist, Composer, and Harmonicist Howard Levy, grammy nominated Trumpet player Victor Garcia, Tenor Saxophone player Chris Madsen, and others. The group was started by Drummer Collin Nordine during the Pandemic and is all original compositions featuring different styles of latin music including Songo, Afro Cuban, Cha Cha, Merengue, Salsa, Calypso, and more. The music is unique, high energy, and sure to please all lovers of Jazz music and Latin music!