Under the direction of trumpeter thad jones and drummer mel lewis, the appropriately name . the performed frequently at the village vanguard and are now called the vanguard jazz orchestra.

It was known as the Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra. This was a top jazz band in the mid 60's formed by Thad Jones a trumpeter and Mel Lewis a drummer both known in New York. They have performed for 12 years and earn popularity by winning numerous awards such as the Grammy Award in Munich. It all ended during 1978 after the death of Lewis.