Legendary jazz musicians take center stage at Ellis Theater
Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, featuring the talented Ashley Pezzoti, brought their educational show to Ellis last week.
The attentive audience included Neshoba Central band members along with students from William Carey University and Jackson State, as well as privately taught students and band directors from area schools.
This performance was part of their Big Band Holidays Tour.
The ensemble spread holiday cheer by showcasing a festive collection during their Philadelphia show, that featured classics like "Jingle Bells", "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch", “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, and “O Christmas Tree” to original compositions like Ashley Pezzoti's "Snowbird.”
After the performance, the musicians opened the floor to questions from the music students.
Responding to queries about practice and challenges, Wynton Marsalis and drummer Obed Calvaire highlighted the lifelong dedication to their craft and the importance of collaboration.
Marsalis also emphasized the importance of exposing children to diverse live musical events, even if some parents may not personally resonate with the music.
The evening concluded with the orchestra expressing gratitude to the audience, bowing to a resounding sea of cheers and a standing ovation.
Established in 1988, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, with its 15 top-notch jazz soloists and ensemble players, has earned global acclaim.
Under the direction of Wynton Marsalis, they explore a broad repertoire, spanning rare historic compositions to works commissioned by Jazz at Lincoln Center.
The orchestra is headquartered in New York City's "House of Swing" (Frederick P. Rose Hall) and engages in numerous education and broadcast events worldwide, catering to audiences of all ages.
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra members include Wynton Marsalis, Music Director/trumpet; Marcus Printup, Music Director/trumpet; Ryan Kisor, Trumpet; Kenny Rampton, Trumpet; Vincent Gardner, Trombone; Chris Crenshaw, Trombone, The Golkin Family Chair; Elliot Mason, Trombone; Sherman Irby, Alto and Soprano Saxophones, Flute, Clarinet; Chris Lewis, Tenor and Soprano Saxophones, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet; Ted Nash, Tenor and Soprano Saxophones, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet; Victor Goines, Tenor and Soprano Saxophones, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet; Chris Lewis, Tenor and Soprano Saxophones, Clarinet; Paul Nedzela, Baritone and Soprano Saxophones, Bass Clarinet; Dan Nimmer, Piano, The Zou Family Chair; Carlos Henriquez, Bass, The Mandel Family Chair in honor of Kathleen B. Mandel; Obed Calvaire, Drums; Ashley Pezzotti, Vocals.