History of JMO

The Joe Mayer Orchestra (known as JMO) began as the Bob Makee Band in 1991. After some time, the Bob Makee Band came under the direction of Joe Mayer, and transitioned to the Joe Mayer Orchestra. Today, JMO is led by Todd White and managed by Joe’s grandson Geno Salvatore in Joe’s memory.

Bob Makee and Joe Mayer formed the band in early 1991. They were a 17-piece group made up of 5 saxophones, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones, piano, bass, drum, guitar, and 2 vocalists in order to recreate the “big band sound.” At that time the band played in the traditional style of Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Harry James, and Count Basie, while also boasting playing latin, rock, motown, polka and waltz to show their versatility. They played for the Euclid Mayor’s Ball, Senior Citizens’ Prom and Winterfest, Concerts in the Park, Community Festivals, Lakeland College Pops Concert/Dance, weddings, parties and other private events.

After Bob’s passing in 1991, Joe took over the band. Under Joe’s direction, the Joe Mayer Orchestra expanded its musical collection and repertoire, while maintaining their Swing Era style. JMO played for the Euclid Community Festival, Beachwood Summer Evening Concert, Baldwin-Wallace University Alumni Day, Mayfield Village Summer Concert, Euclid Community Valentine Dance, East 200th Street Stroll, Kiwanis Clubs, and many other private functions.

After Joe’s passing in early 2018, his grandson Geno stepped forward to bring new energy to JMO and keep his grandfather’s legacy alive.

These days the Joe Mayer Orchestra practices at the East Shore United Methodist Church every other week. The group is ever-changing as seen by this website. Under Geno’s management, the orchestra has gone digital and is making its presence known on Facebook and Instagram. The orchestra aims to continue to enrich the public it serves while also returning to the original roots of playing at parties, weddings and other private events. If you’d like more information on hosting the Joe Mayer Orchestra at your next gathering, feel free to request an event.

To see pictures over the years, check out our Visual History!