January 06, 2025

Gonzaga University News Service

The Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center is pleased to announce an exceptional evening of Jazz celebrating the soul of New Orleans and the spirit of Mardi Gras with Jazz at Lincoln Center PRESENTS on January 22.

Jazz at Lincoln Center PRESENTS brings the vibrant soul of New Orleans and the spirit of Mardi Gras to the evening, celebrating the legendary composers and timeless songs that define the Crescent City – the historic epicenter of jazz. From the pioneering sounds of Jelly Roll Morton and Louis Armstrong to the distinctive styles of Ellis Marsalis and James Black, New Orleans has long been an apex of musical innovation and inspiration. Music by Henry Butler, The Meters, Professor Longhair and more will also be featured as part of the New Orleans Songbook performance.

Led by acclaimed pianist Luther S. Allison and featuring the soulful vocals of Quiana Lynell and Milton Suggs, New Orleans Songbook immerses audiences in the captivating sounds and rhythms of this iconic city. The show pays homage to The Big Easy’s enduring influence on jazz and the unique energy and legacy of its music, which continues to resonate globally. The trio will be joined by Brandon Woody (trumpet), Gina Benalcázar López, Mariel Bildsten (trombone), Markus Howell (saxophone), Jonathon S. Muir-Cotton, Liany Mateo (bass) and Marcus Grant (drums).

“New Orleans is arguably the most important city in the history of Black American Music. The depth of its culture is bar none, and the influence of art from this city has undeniably shaped the development of nearly all genres of music,” Allison says. “I am honored to pay tribute to my heroes of the New Orleans lineage with such a tremendous band."

For over three decades, Jazz at Lincoln Center has been a leading advocate for jazz, culture, and arts education globally. Under the direction of Wynton Marsalis, Jazz at Lincoln Center has brought the art form of jazz from the heart of New York City to over 446 cities in more than 40 countries.

The Jazz at Lincoln Center PRESENTS touring initiative provides an opportunity to present great jazz programming, featuring up-and-coming musicians who have been identified as rising stars by JALC.  The initiative also allows for expansion of the mission of JALC “to entertain, enrich and expand a global community for jazz through performance, education, and advocacy.”

New Orleans Songbook— A Jazz at Lincoln Center PRESENTS Production will be performed on Wednesday, January 22 at 7:30 p.m. at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center Coughlin Theater, 211 E. DeSmet Ave. in Spokane. Reserved seat tickets are $42-$66 for the general public and $10 for Gonzaga University students (while supplies last), and available at https://bit.ly/NewOrleansSongbookJALCTickets or by visiting the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center Box Office Monday – Friday, noon-5 p.m. or by calling 509-313-2787.