The Heart of Carolina Jazz Orchestra is directed by Gregg Gelb.  Gelb began the Orchestra in 1991 when he was Visiting Artist at Central Carolina Community College. Over its many years the organization has presented many of the finest artists in the world of jazz such as: Cecile McLorin Salvant, Bud Shank, Dave Valentin, Houston Person, Rene Marie, Stanley Jordan and Sonny Fortune.  On Oct. 1, 2016 HOCJO’s guest artist is jazz guitar legend, Larry Coryell, whose show will be at the Lee County Arts and Community Center. The Heart of Carolina Jazz Orchestra is a non-profit 501 C3 organization.