Pianist

Keyboards

Sophia Shorai, a contemporary jazz vocalist and singer/songwriter, is a mainstay on the Twin Cities music scene. Born in Bindura, Zimbabwe (hence, her middle name Shorai), she began classical piano and voice training at age five. She spent her early childhood mimicking the voices and instrumentation of jazz legends in her father’s record collection. Then, this gave rise to exploring the Golden Age of standards in her early teens.

Sophia Shorai & Tommy Barbarella

Dakota

A new show inspired by icons Ray Charles, Brian Auger, Captain Jack McDuff, George Benson & Mahalia Jackson too. Willie & Tommy join up with trap kit genie Dave Anania, string bass pusher Jeremy Boettcher & mindblower guitarist Geoff LeCrone to wade into vintage covers and Wisely originals alike.

Willie Wisely & Tommy Barbarella Organ Combo

### Event Description: Merry & Bright - Minnesota Orchestra

**Event Title:** Merry & Bright - Minnesota Orchestra

**Date & Time:** Sunday, December 10, 2023

**Duration:** 2 hours including intermission

**Location:** Orchestra Hall, Minnesota

**Event Overview:**
Give your holiday season a big, brassy boost with "Merry & Bright," a festive concert featuring Minnesota Orchestra trumpeter Charles Lazarus and a lineup of very special guests. This event promises a fresh take on your favorite holiday tunes, delivered by an all-star band of Grammy Award-winners, former Prince collaborators, and world-renowned performers.

**Featured Artists:**
- **Charles Lazarus (Trumpet):** A member of the Minnesota Orchestra since 2000, Lazarus is known for his unique blend of solo performances, compositions, and bandleading. He has created and starred in several original orchestral shows and is celebrated for his innovative approach to music.
- **Tonia Hughes Kendrick (Vocals):** Acclaimed for her powerful and transparent delivery, Kendrick is one of Minnesota’s most gifted artists, known for her genre-bending talent.
- **Bruce A. Henry (Vocals):** Influenced by legends like Nina Simone and John Coltrane, Henry brings an eclectic style of vocals and composition to the stage.
- **Angelica Cantanti Youth Choirs:** A talented group of young singers adding a vibrant choral element to the performance.
- **Tommy Barbarella (Piano and Keyboards):** Best known for his work with Prince, Barbarella has a reputation for excellence and versatility.
- **Jeff Bailey (Bass):** A versatile musician and composer who has performed with numerous world-renowned artists.
- **Daryl Boudreaux (Percussion):** A Grammy Award-winning percussionist with a rich history of collaborations.
- **David Schmalenberger (Drums):** A seasoned performer and recording artist known for his work with various jazz ensembles.

**Concert Highlights:**
- **Holiday Favorites:** Enjoy a fresh, swinging take on beloved holiday classics.
- **Special Guests:** Performances by powerhouse vocalists and a youth choir.
- **All-Star Band:** Featuring Grammy Award-winners and former Prince collaborators.

**Additional Information:**
- **Pre-concert Activities:** The Minnesota Chorale's Holiday Heralds will perform seasonal hits from 1:15-1:45pm in the Target Atrium.
- **Accessibility Services:** Armless & bariatric chairs, assistive listening devices, noise-canceling headphones, service animals, and wheelchair & accessible seating are available upon request.
- **Pre-order Beverages:** Skip the lines at the bar by pre-ordering your intermission beverage via the Minnesota Orchestra App.

**Note:** The Minnesota Orchestra does not perform in this program. This concert is excluded from the Black Friday sale.

**Tickets:** Available for purchase on the Minnesota Orchestra website.

**Plan Your Visit:**
- **Directions & Parking:** Convenient parking is available just steps away from Orchestra Hall in the city-owned and skyway-connected 11th and Marquette Ramp.
- **Valet Parking:** Available for added convenience.
- **Helpful Tips:** Browse tips on making the most of your visit, including pre-concert activities and food options.

Join us for an unforgettable holiday experience with "Merry & Bright" and let the music of Charles Lazarus and his all-star band fill your season with joy and cheer!

EPSG:4326

Merry & Bright

Minnesota Orchestra

A new show inspired by icons Ray Charles, Brian Auger, Booker T., Georgie Fame & Graham Bond. Willie & Tommy join up with trap kit genie Dave Anania, string bass pusher Jeremy Boettcher & wunderkind saxophonist/flutist Nelson Devereaux. Here, they wade into vintage covers and Wisely originals alike. Crushed blue notes, cigarillo glissando smears and Latin-stabbed staccato sine waves of the golden age of hipped-out, juice-headed, shape-in-a-drape night club scenery. The mice will play.

Sophia Shorai, a contemporary jazz vocalist and singer/songwriter, has been a mainstay on the Twin Cities music scene since 2004. Born in Bindura, Zimbabwe (hence, her middle name Shorai), she began classical piano and voice training at age five. She spent her early childhood mimicking the voices and instrumentation of jazz legends in her father’s record collection. Then, this gave rise to exploring the Golden Age of standards in her early teens.

Urban Classic, Minneapolis’ latest funk, soul, and R&B band, presents an evening of hit songs by one of the greatest bands in history: Earth, Wind & Fire.

Urban Classic Presents: The Music of Earth, Wind & Fire

Give your holiday season a big, brassy boost as Minnesota Orchestra trumpeter Charles Lazarus and some very special guests—including powerhouse vocalists Tonia Hughes Kendrick and Bruce A. Henry, along with singers from Angelica Cantanti Youth Choirs—swing their way through your favorite holiday tunes. Lazarus’ all-star band features Grammy Award-winners, former Prince collaborators and many world-renowned performers, all lending a bright, fresh take on the most beloved classics.

Charles Lazarus and a stage-full of spectacular musical guests present a big, brassy (perfect for all ages) holiday show! Hear toe-tapping arrangements of holiday standards and discover your new favorite tradition.

Pianist, Keyboards

Tommy Barbarella

Events

Upcoming events

Dec 14, 2025

Merry & Bright · Minnesota Orchestra

Past events

Aug 12, 2025

Sophia Shorai & Tommy Barbarella · Dakota

May 19, 2025

Willie Wisely & Tommy Barbarella Organ Combo · Dakota

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