MARY ORJI

Mary Orji – Saxophonist, Composer, Bandleader

 

 

 

Three-time performer at the historic Apollo Theater and saxophonist for Janelle Monáe’s band, Mary Orji is a dynamic force redefining the modern saxophonist. A major highlight of her touring career includes performing in a Grammy tribute honoring Earth, Wind & Fire — celebrating one of music’s most iconic groups inone of the industry’s most prestigious shows CBS. Mary’s musical foundation began at seven years old on the cello, where she developed discipline and orchestral sensitivity through years of NYSSMA and All-County participation.

 

But it was in ninth grade, upon discovering jazz, that her artistic identity ignited. Armed with a powerful ear but little formal theory knowledge, Mary immersed herself in self-study before receiving transformative mentorship at COTA Camp Jazz, founded by legendary saxophonist Phil Woods and introduced to her by acclaimed drummer Sherrie Mariacle. That experience sparked an intense period of growth — a summer devoted entirely to mastering theory and deepening her craft. Mentored in her final year of high school by Al Hamme and supported by her flute teacher Barbara Gannon, Mary was guided into the professional music world and accepted into Berklee College of Music. At Berklee, Mary refined her compositional voice and founded The Mary Orji Visionaries Collective.

 

 

In her junior year, she composed and produced Conception, a visual album that showcased her strengths as a composer, songwriter, and creative director and homage to her lineage of her Nigerian roots. The project culminated in a self-produced performance at the Berklee Performance Center and later expanded into a theatrical production. She studied with master musicians including George Garzone and Tia Fuller, graduating in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Professional Music.

 

Simultaneously, Mary developed a reputation as a versatile and commanding performer playing in horn sections, wedding bands, DJ collaborations, and serving as featured saxophonist for All The Feels Fest in Boston, where she performed four sold-out shows at House of Blues Boston. Following her undergraduate studies, Mary led her band at the NAMM Show and BAMS Fest, continued touring nationally, and performed for the Mayor of New York City. In 2024, she returned to Berklee to pursue a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Arts, graduating in June 2025.

 

 

Now based in Harlem, NYC, Mary Orji is a touring saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and educator whose work bridges jazz tradition, and expansive visual storytelling. Whether leading her collective or performing on major stages worldwide, Mary’s artistry is defined by bold vision, technical command, and fearless creative direction.