ABOUT US
Inspiring, educating, and connecting Central Florida’s community
Our mission is to foster a vibrant jazz community in Central Florida by promoting dynamic events, supporting hardworking young musicians, and offering enriching learning opportunities. Through creativity, originality, and dedication, we aim to inspire our community, ensuring that the art and culture of jazz continue to thrive for generations to come.
Celebrating the sounds of Jazz
Born in the United States, jazz is a global art form, drawing inspiration from cultures and traditions worldwide. Its rich tapestry of instrumentation, rhythms, and arrangements transcends borders, creating a soundscape that defies singular definition.
At CF Jazz, we honor the vast spectrum of jazz, celebrating its roots in world music, African rhythms, Caribbean beats, Latin grooves, soul, blues, and beyond. Our events are a tribute to the diverse voices and cultures that have shaped jazz into America’s most iconic export.
From standalone concerts to immersive festivals, engaging series, and educational camps, we craft unforgettable experiences that bring communities together and showcase the universal language of jazz. Join us as we celebrate the diversity, history, and future of this extraordinary art form.
Supporting tomorrow’s Jazz icons
Central Florida has always been a haven for the creative arts, with jazz musicians playing a vital role in shaping our community’s culture, education, and entertainment for decades. At CF Jazz, we are dedicated to fostering the next generation of extraordinary talent.
Through private and public gigs, as well as opportunities to record and release new music, we ensure that young musicians can develop, create, and thrive. As jazz legend Sonny Rollins famously said, “A gig is worth 1,000 practices.” These experiences are essential for cultivating the skill and passion needed to reach new heights.
By providing these platforms, CF Jazz ignites the fire within tomorrow’s jazz titans, fueling their journey and ensuring a bright future for this incredible art form. Join us in nurturing the next wave of jazz brilliance.
Connect with your community
Whether you’re an aspiring musician or a seasoned veteran of Central Florida’s jazz scene, finding opportunities to perform can be a challenge. At the same time, jazz enthusiasts and community members eager to support the art form often seek ways to help it thrive.
CF Jazz bridges this gap by connecting talented musicians with clients and audiences looking to bring jazz to life. From private events, club gigs, and festivals to educational opportunities like master classes and private lessons, we serve as a one-stop hub for connecting performers with those who need them.
Whether you’re planning a wedding, corporate event, public concert, or educational experience, CF Jazz is here to ensure every performance is meaningful and impactful. Together, let’s grow a vibrant jazz community and create spaces where music and connection flourish.
Leadership

Jeff Richey
Founder & CEO
Jeff Richey discovered his passion for saxophone at age eight in Philadelphia, studying under Philadelphia Orchestra clarinetist David Blumburg. After high school, he pursued Jazz Performance at Temple University under Telarc artist Ben Schacter, Ed Flanagan, and Terell Stafford. Jeff spent the early 2000s touring globally with the internationally acclaimed ska band The Toasters, playing festivals, clubs, television, and album sessions. Relocating to Orlando in 2008, he launched the ska-rocksteady-reggae band Control This and co-founded Afrobeat ensemble Bengali 600 and Brown Bag Brass Band. Today, he promotes ska via Florida Ska Events and spearheads CF Jazz, championing local jazz culture.

Pablo Aragona
Program Director
Multi-instrumentalist Pablo Aragona was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, son of conductor Jorge Aragona. Immersed in piano, guitar, and drums by age nine, he earned degrees in Professional Music and Sound Technology before studying at New York’s Drummers Collective. Drawn to global influences, he performed at festivals like Jazz Plaza in Havana, then appeared in musicals including Les Misérables. He formed El Resongon, later a quintet, releasing BACO. After joining Royal Caribbean as Musical Director, he moved to the U.S., revived his quintet, and recorded Yikes. He performs with Rhythm Portal and resides in Winter Park, Florida, with wife Hayley.

Enrique Wiedemann
Marketing Director
With over 20 years of experience in marketing and advertising, Enrique Wiedemann is a seasoned Creative Director specializing in innovative strategies and compelling brand identities. He has worked across diverse industries and spent the last five years enhancing Timucua Arts Foundation’s positioning, branding, and strategic planning. Enrique is passionate about delivering solutions that inspire, connect, and bring art to life for the community.