In 1995 a call went out to area musicians about a new orchestra that was forming in Tulsa.  This would be an orchestra made up of Christian musicians, playing upbeat big-band style music. 

This new band, conceived by trumpeter Bob Archer, was to include 5 trumpets, 5 trombones, 5 saxes, piano, bass, guitar, drums and vocals.

After a few short rehearsals, the Tulsa Praise Orchestra roared to life and has been going strong ever since. Over 350 concerts later, the orchestra has delighted audiences with their unique concert style throughout Oklahoma, Texas, Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas and New Mexico.

The Tulsa Praise Orchestra, also known simply as ‘TPO’ has, indeed performed in a variety of settings including churches, festivals, TV Shows and special events.

“We love performing with dynamic solo artists”, says Archer, “Dave Boyer, Ernestine Dillard,  and Phil Driscol are among the nationally acclaimed solo artists who have performed with the band over the years”.  We also love our locally known favorites, Sandra Hopkins, Sue Wilson, Alice Coe, Glory, Jack Spratt and others”.

While all of the concerts are special, there are few that stand out as exceptional:  Performing at the Grand Palace in Branson,  a performance for U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe and United States Vice President Dick Cheney, entertaining evacuees from Hurricane Katrina , Salute to Veterans Tour in 2008 are among our favorite memories.

See our concert schedule…. Click here.