For decades, Montgomery, Alabama, carried the echoes of jazz legends. From intimate clubs to vibrant street corners, the city's downtown once pulsed with the rhythms of saxophones, upright basses, and the unmistakable swing of a well-played ride cymbal. But like so many jazz scenes across the country, Montgomery’s live jazz culture struggled in the aftermath of COVID-19. Venues shuttered, musicians scattered, and the once-thriving ecosystem of local and touring talent faded into memory.

That is—until now.

Enter the Montgomery Jazz Alliance (MJA), a collective of top-tier jazz musicians committed to revitalizing the city’s jazz scene and ensuring that live, world-class jazz remains an integral part of Montgomery’s cultural landscape. Founded in 2025 by trombonist Trevor Sikorski, saxophonist/pianist Tim Stuart, and guitarist/bassist Joe Lauziere, MJA was born out of a desire to do more than just play gigs—it was created to build a movement.

The idea first took root at The Sanctuary, a downtown Montgomery venue where Sikorski and Stuart found themselves reminiscing about the city’s once-thriving jazz culture. They spoke about the challenges of booking quality players, the lack of venues supporting professional jazz, and the frustration of seeing Montgomery’s musical legacy slip away. They knew the solution wasn’t just another band—it had to be something bigger.

From Jam Sessions to a Jazz Renaissance

With the addition of Lauziere, MJA’s vision became clear: create a network of elite jazz performers, educators, and rising stars dedicated to reinvigorating Montgomery’s jazz scene. The first step? Bring musicians together.

What started as a series of bi-weekly jam sessions in Millbrook, Alabama, quickly turned into a magnet for top talent. These sessions attracted seasoned players like renowned saxophonist La’Roy Bodiford and Latin percussion specialist Benjamin Weldon, while also providing a platform for up-and-coming artists like drummer Juantez Robinson and guitarist Matt Clements. The energy was electric, the chemistry undeniable—MJA wasn’t just performing music; it was building a community.

As word spread, the group expanded into downtown Montgomery, landing performances at Prevail Union and MAP 360. These weren’t just gigs—they were statements. Jazz was back.

More Than a Band: A Mission

While MJA certainly delivers show-stopping performances, its mission extends beyond entertainment. The group is deeply committed to education and community outreach, offering masterclasses, jazz history workshops, and student performance opportunities. Their goal? To not only preserve jazz but pass it on—inspiring the next generation of musicians while reintroducing audiences to the magic of live jazz.

Now, MJA is actively seeking new venue partners in Montgomery, looking for spaces willing to host performances and jam sessions that will continue fueling the city’s jazz resurgence. With flexible instrumentation ranging from trios to full ensembles, professional production capabilities, and a roster of world-class musicians, MJA offers something few can match: an authentic, unforgettable jazz experience.

For those who have missed the thrill of live jazz in Montgomery, the wait is over. The Montgomery Jazz Alliance isn’t just playing music—they’re rebuilding a legacy, one performance at a time.