The Preservation Hall Jazz Band derives its name from Preservation Hall, the venerable music venue located in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter, founded in 1961 by Allan and Sandra Jaffe.  The band has traveled worldwide spreading their mission to nurture and perpetuate the art form of New Orleans Jazz.  Whether performing at Carnegie Hall or Lincoln Center, for British Royalty or the King of Thailand, this music embodies a joyful, timeless spirit.

It seems like such a simple thing, but the secret behind the music of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band is that it is fun—to hear and to play.  Yes, preserving and sharing New Orleans music is a historically significant responsibility, and the music itself is a sophisticated part of American cultural heritage.  "Preservation Hall embodies the spirit of New Orleans," said Ben Jaffe, the 36-year-old bass player and director of Preservation Hall.  He ought to know, seeing as he grew up at Preservation Hall, which his parents—Allan and Sandra Jaffe—founded in 1961.

The Naples Philharmonic Orchestra is increasingly recognized as one of the top regional orchestras in the United States.

Under the baton of Jorge Mester, music director/conductor, this concert will include Respighi's The Birds, Vaughn William's Concerto in A minor for Oboe and Strings (with soloist Judy Christy, principal oboist), and Beethoven's Symphony #4 in B Flat Major; Opus 60.

Christopher Parkening is celebrated as one of the world's preeminent virtuosos of the classical guitar.  The New York Times described his playing as "so intelligent, sensitive and adept that one can forget everything but the music."

Jubilant Sykes, a classically trained baritone, has created a diverse and personal approach to singing by bringing a modern flavor to classical sounds.  Much in demand as a soloist, he has performed with some of the world's finest symphonies and opera companies including the New York Philharmonic, the Chicago Symphony, Houston Grand Opera and the Metropolitan Opera.

As a duo, pianists/composers Kirk Whipple and Marilyn Morales have performed at venues throughout the United States, Europe, Costa Rica, Spain, and throughout the Caribbean.  They have recorded a number of CDs, appeared on television and radio, and published a book of one piano/four hand holiday arrangements for beginning pianists, entitled "Christmas Treasures."

Their program includes: Bach's Concerto in C Major for Two Pianos and Strings, and Saint-Saëns' Carnival of the Animals.

Fine & Performing Arts Concert Series

Advanced Series Tickets $100 · Single Tickets $25