Vocalist

Hear the artistry and improvisational spark of MSU jazz artists in this annual concert featuring jazz standards, inventive arrangements, and original works. Rooted in tradition but driven by creativity, this group brings dynamic energy and expressive depth to every performance. A must-hear event for jazz lovers of all kinds. Artists: Carmen Bradford, voice; Xavier Davis, piano; Michael Dease, trombone; Randy Gelispie, drums; Randy Napoleon, guitar; Anthony Stanco, trumpet; Erena Terakubo, saxophone; and Rodney Whitaker, bass.

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MSU Professors of Jazz

Michigan State University

It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing! Inspired by Harlem’s famed musical hot spots like The Cotton Club and The Savoy, this swingin’ night of musical sensations focuses on Harlem’s heyday when Duke Ellington’s orchestra was the house band, and Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, and Ethel Waters showcased the classics of the Great American Songbook.

Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling

Kleinhans Music Hall

Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the enduring power of music to call for equality, courage, and social change. This year’s Jazz: Spirituals, Prayer, and Protest concert centers on the theme “Justice for All: A Legacy of Courage and Commitment,” highlighting jazz’s deep historical ties to reflection, resilience, and collective action.

Jazz: Spirituals, Prayer and Protest Concert

Join the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra for an enchanting evening of music on May 3, 2025, at 7:30 pm, featuring the exceptional talents of Byron Stripling on trumpet and Carmen Bradford as vocalist. This special performance will take place in the prestigious Whitehead Auditorium, where every note promises to resonate with the passion and precision of these acclaimed artists. Enhance your experience by attending the pre-concert chat at 6:45 pm, offering insights and stories behind the music you will hear. Tickets are priced at $28 each and require prior reservation. To secure your seat for this unforgettable musical journey, please call 229-333-2150. Don't miss this opportunity to support and celebrate the arts with the Valdosta Symphony Orchestra.

Vso Preconcert Chat 3

Valdosta State University

As temperatures rise, triple-threat Byron Stripling returns to Southam Hall to lead the NAC Orchestra in Harlem Nights: From Ella to Ellington, a swingin’ evening inspired by Harlem’s heyday at famed musical hot spots like the legendary Cotton Club and The Savoy.

Maestro Stripling, who is a trumpeter and vocalist himself, will be joined onstage by the incredible Carmen Bradford, a third-generation jazz vocalist and 2022 GRAMMY Award-nominee. Bradford was discovered and hired by William “Count” Basie at the age of 22 and was a featured vocalist in his orchestra for nine years. Her dynamic tones take audiences back in time as she pays tribute to jazz queens like Ella Fitzgerald and more. 

Harlem Nights: From Ella to Ellington

Southam Hall

As temperatures rise, triple-threat Byron Stripling returns to Southam Hall to lead the NAC Orchestra in Harlem Nights: From Ella to Ellington, a swingin’ evening inspired by Harlem’s heyday at famed musical hot spots like the legendary Cotton Club and The Savoy.

National Arts Centre

The toe-tapping, finger-snapping program shines the spotlight on the music of great early 20th century composers, including George Gershwin (Fascinating Rhythm), Irving Berlin (Strike Up The Band), and Scott Joplin (Maple Leaf Rag), that have the timeless melodies and rhythms that continue to lift our spirits today. Joined by the great vocalist Carmen Bradford, Byron creates an inspiring musical portrait of how these songs shaped the Great American Songbook.

Gershwin, Berlin & Friends

Symphony Hall, Springfield

Experience the smooth sounds of New Orleans as the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra presents "All That Satchmo: Smooth Sounds of New Orleans." This captivating performance features the extraordinary talents of trumpeter and vocalist Byron Stripling, alongside the internationally acclaimed vocal jazz phenomenon Carmen Bradford. Together, they bring to life the timeless hits made famous by New Orleans legends such as Louis Armstrong, Fats Domino, Al Hirt, and Mahalia Jackson. The concert also pays homage to Jazz Age icons Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughn, and Billie Holiday, recreating some of the most memorable moments in musical history. With classics from The Great American Songbook, this event promises to entertain and capture the hearts of all who attend, celebrating the rich musical heritage of New Orleans in a truly unforgettable way.

All That Satchmo: Smooth Sounds of New Orleans

Eastman Theatre

Immerse yourself in the golden era of jazz with "It Don’t Mean a Thing: Swingin’ Uptown Classics with Byron Stripling," a sensational concert presented by the Houston Symphony. Under the baton of the charismatic Byron Stripling, who also shines as a trumpeter and vocalist, this event promises to whisk you away to the heart of Harlem’s most electrifying nightclubs of the past. Inspired by iconic venues like The Cotton Club and The Savoy, where legends like Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway set the stage alight, this concert is a tribute to the unforgettable jazz hits of the era.

Expect a night filled with the timeless tunes that defined the Jazz Age and Swing Era, brought to life by guest artists embodying the essence of jazz greats such as Ella Fitzgerald and Cab Calloway. Adding to the authenticity and excitement, a talented tap dancer will join the ensemble, ensuring that the rhythm truly swings. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest vintage attire, adding to the atmosphere that aims to recreate the vivacious spirit of the 1920s to 1940s.

This unique musical journey is set to take place at Jones Hall, with performances scheduled for November 8, 9, and 10, 2024. The concert offers a rare opportunity to experience the magic of a bygone era, with Friday and Saturday shows at 7:30 PM, and a Sunday matinee at 2:00 PM.

Joining Byron Stripling on stage will be the talented Carmen Bradford, a vocalist with a deep connection to the jazz tradition, and Leo Manzari, a vocalist and tap dancer known for his dynamic performances. This event is part of the Houston Symphony's 2024-25 season, currently available exclusively to subscribers. Secure your subscription today for a chance to save, enjoy priority seating, and gain presale access to special events, including performances by the renowned Yo-Yo Ma.

Don't miss this chance to step back in time and experience the swingin' uptown classics that continue to inspire and delight audiences worldwide.

It Don’t Mean A Thing: Swingin’ Uptown Classics With Byron Stripling

Jones Hall

### Uptown Nights with the Minnesota Orchestra

**Date & Time:**  
Saturday, August 3, 2024

**Venue:**  
Orchestra Hall, 1111 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403

**Duration:**  
2 hours, including intermission

**Event Description:**  
Experience a swingin' night of musical sensations with "Uptown Nights with the Minnesota Orchestra," inspired by Harlem’s famed musical hot spots like the Cotton Club and the Savoy. This event will transport you to Harlem’s heyday when Duke Ellington’s orchestra was the house band, and legends like Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, and Ethel Waters showcased the classics of the Great American Songbook.

**Program:**  
To be announced.

**Artists:**  
- **Minnesota Orchestra:** The Grammy Award-winning ensemble, known for its acclaimed performances and commitment to featuring works by composers of color.
- **Byron Stripling:** Conductor and trumpet virtuoso, known for his captivating charm and extensive experience leading orchestras across the United States and Canada.
- **Carmen Bradford:** Grammy-nominated vocalist, hailed as Jazz Royalty, with a rich family legacy in music.
- **Leo Manzari:** Lucille Lortel Award-nominated tap dancer, celebrated for his performances in various high-profile productions.

**Extras:**  
- **Pre-concert Activities:** Enjoy a delicious Bubbles and Bites package prepared by Wandering Kitchen, featuring a charcuterie box paired with your choice of bubbles, wine, or a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage.
- **Valet Parking:** Available for your convenience.
- **Pre-order Beverages:** Save time by pre-ordering your drinks.
- **Accessibility Services:** Including armless & bariatric chairs, assistive listening devices, large-print programs, noise-canceling headphones, service animals, and wheelchair & accessible seating.

**Plan Your Visit:**  
- **Directions & Parking:** Parking is just steps away from Orchestra Hall in the city-owned and skyway-connected 11th and Marquette Ramp.
- **Download the MinnOrch App:** Pre-order intermission drinks, scan your ticket for entry, and get exclusive deals just for app users.

**Tickets:**  
Save up to 15% and receive subscriber perks when you buy 3 or more concerts, including Summer and 2024-2025 season concerts.

**Presented by:**  
Ameriprise Financial

**For More Information and Tickets:**  
Visit the Minnesota Orchestra website to purchase tickets and learn more about this exciting event.

Uptown Nights With The Minnesota Orchestra

Minnesota Orchestra

SFJAZZ is proud to partner with the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and its Roots, Jazz & American Music (RJAM) program, linking a world-class conservatory to the award-winning SFJAZZ Center and its resident all-star ensemble, the SFJAZZ Collective. 

Side-By-Side concerts pair select faculty from the Roots, Jazz and American Music (RJAM) program at The San Francisco Conservatory of Music with their young artist proteges. The stellar faculty cast includes the SFJAZZ Collective's Warren Wolf, David Sanchez, Edward Simon, and Matt Brewer, along with luminaries Joshua Redman, Carmen Bradford, Julian Lage, Chad Lefkowitz-Brown, Matt Wilson and many others.

RJAM Side-By-Side

SFJAZZ Center

As the lead vocalist with the Count Basie Orchestra, Carmen Bradford is one of jazz music’s most diverse and exciting vocal stylists. She pays homage to legends Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Lena Horne in this special program featuring the likes of Fascinating Rhythm, Love Me or Leave Me,and many more.

First Ladies of Song

Inspired by Harlem’s famed musical hot spots like The Cotton Club and The Savoy, this swingin’ night of musical sensations focuses on Harlem’s heyday when Duke Ellington’s orchestra was the house band, and Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald and Ethel Waters showcased the classics of the Great American Songbook.

Uptown Nights: It Don't Mean a Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing

Meyerson Symphony Center

Trumpet virtuoso, singer, and actor Byron Stripling joins the Omaha Symphony for a spirited evening in celebration of New Orleans jazz, Louis Armstrong, and more!”

Sounds of New Orleans with Byron Stripling

Omaha Performing Arts

Step into the golden age of jazz and swing, where America’s first ladies of song — including Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Lena Horne — ruled the stage. Carmen Bradford, a superstar jazz singer and charismatic storyteller, brings to life the legendary women who changed the face of music.

Pops 1: First Ladies of Song

Martin Woldson Theater

Step back into the golden age of swing with the timeless hits of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Ella Fitzgerald for a dazzling evening of swagger, smooth vocals, and big band swing with: My Way, Come Fly with Me, I’ve Got the World on a String, Ain’t that a Kick in the Head, Come Rain or Come Shine and so much more. 

Vocalist

Carmen Bradford

Events

Upcoming events

Jul 25, 2026

A Toast To The Rat Pack · Pasadena Symphony and POPS

Past events

Feb 20, 2026

MSU Professors of Jazz · Michigan State University College of Music

Jan 31, 2026

Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling · Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra

About

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