The seven-person ensemble known as the Jazz Therapists brings its special brand of healing sounds to senior centers and assisted living facilities and now to the general public in a CD release party June 1 at Oakland’s Sound Room. (photo courtesy of The Jazz Therapists)

Have you ever felt a bit out of sorts, put on your favorite music and felt your mood change for the better? If so, you're among the many you have learned the healing power of music.

Bringing their own special brand of healing, the Jazz Therapists have been playing in senior centers and assisted living facilities around the East Bay since 2015. As they play many pre-1945 jazz classics, they bring back memories of dancing to those same tunes to their audiences.

Founded by late Oakland community leader and saxophonist Bob Schwartz, the stellar group of seven Bay Area musicians has its own unique sound as each member puts their heart and soul into a variety of classic jazz tunes and forgotten gems.

The illustrious members include vocalist Anna de Leon, drummer David Rokeach, guitarist Rob Schwartz (son of Bob Schwartz), pianist Ben Stolorow, bassist Heshima Mark Williams, music director/trombonist Michael Rinta and tenor sax player Lincoln Adler.

Together they have performed and recorded with such icons as Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Taj Mahal, Sly and the Family Stone and many more.

“We try to bring healing energy and joy wherever we go,” said Rokeach, who toured nationally and internationally with Ray Charles and performed with a star-studded list of headliners.

In a YouTube video, Schwartz said, “Playing for senior centers is a social event that stays with them for hours and sometimes days.” Trombonist Mike Rinta agreed: “I love the audience and being able to have an impact on their lives.”

The sought-after group has never played a public gig together, but it plans to change that with a CD release party at Oakland’s Sound Room on 3022 Broadway from 2-4 p.m. on June 1. The CD titled “Love You Madly” includes the group’s unique renditions of classic jazz tunes.

For tickets, go to eventbrite.com/e/jazz-therapists-tickets-1318279542599?aff=oddtdtcreator.

Reach Sally Hogarty at sallyhogarty@gmail.com, and read more of her reviews online at eastbaytimes.com/author/sally-hogarty.