Under Kira's direction, the KDF Big Band (formerly the Young Lions Jazz Orchestra) is a 16-piece jazz ensemble comprised of some of the best young emerging artists in the Northeast. The original project stemmed from her student-led big band at Columbia University— upon graduating, Kira began to pursue ways of engaging her peers professionally and performing in venues across the city. She established the Young Lions Jazz Orchestra as a means to develop her unique musical voice; the group balances convention and novelty by placing an emphasis on original compositions and arrangements. After being forced to disband in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic, Kira has now organized this second edition ensemble to bring her music back to audiences in the Boston area and beyond.
The KDF Big Band offers a fresh and exciting approach to the big band style. Their repertoire draws heavily from the swing tradition and Kira's Latina heritage, as well as a wide selection of influences— from Ellington to D’Angelo to Jorge Drexler and beyond. Captained by their ambitious leader, The KDF Big Band is certainly a group to watch out for; this diverse collective of up-and-coming musicians is dedicated to illuminating musical perspectives previously unheard.
