How the JM Jazz World Orchestra is changing lives and shaping careers with Pilvi Kokkonen & Luis Bonilla

02/12/25 • 38 min

🌟 The JM Jazz World Orchestra is more than just an ensemble—it’s a launchpad for emerging jazz talent. Bringing together gifted musicians from around the world, it offers them a taste of the real-life touring experience, high-level mentorship, and the chance to perform on some of Europe’s finest stages. Pilvi, now a lead trumpet player, credits JMJWO for expanding her horizons, proving how crucial platforms like this are in shaping future jazz leaders. Luis, having worked with jazz icons throughout his career, discusses the importance of mentorship, diversity, and what makes JMJWO truly special.

✨ If you’re an aspiring jazz musician aged 18-26, you can apply now for the JM Jazz World Orchestra 2025 and be part of this transformative experience! Auditions are open until March 9, 2025. Rehearsals will take place in Grožnjan, Croatia, followed by a European tour through Italy, Germany, Slovenia, and beyond.

📢 Apply here: JMJWO 2025 Auditions
🌍 Learn more: www.jmjazzworld.com

Luis’ socials:
Instagram
Facebook

Pilvi’s socials:
Website
Instagram
Linkedin

If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. Join us in celebrating the power of jazz to inspire, connect, and transform! 🎶✨

i️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

📢 Apply here: JMJWO 2025 Auditions
🌍 Learn more: www.jmjazzworld.com

Luis’ socials:
Instagram
Facebook

Pilvi’s socials:
Website
Instagram
Linkedin

If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. Join us in celebrating the power of jazz to inspire, connect, and transform! 🎶✨

i️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

Previous Episode

Creating Change Where It Matters: Art, Activism, and Resilience with Ruth Daniel (In Place of War)

🌟 She shares her journey—from being a musician to running an independent label in the UK to founding Un-Convention, a movement connecting grassroots musicians worldwide—led her to witness firsthand the power of music in shaping societies. From hip-hop in Palestine to electronic music on politically charged dance floors, she discusses how artists in these regions are reclaiming their voices and creating impact despite the challenges they face.

✨ This episode is a powerful reflection on how music and creativity persist even in the toughest conditions, and how supporting artists in these spaces can help drive meaningful change.
If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. Join us in exploring the transformative power of music!

i️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

Next Episode

Curating Culture: Innovation in Organizing with Gaurav Narula (WOMEX)

We dive into the challenges and opportunities of organizing an event on the scale of WOMEX, bringing together over 2,600 music professionals from across 90 countries each year. Gaurav shares insights into the delicate balance of curating an inclusive and diverse program while also pushing boundaries and keeping the event fresh and forward-looking. We also discuss what it takes to preserve the magic of WOMEX, ensuring it remains a space where global music communities can connect, collaborate, and inspire. And Gaurav lets us in on how he ended up making edits of 90s Bollywood disco tracks. As always, if you enjoy our content, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. We hope you enjoy the episode!

i️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.