Drummer

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.

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Merry & Bright

Orchestra Hall

### 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!

Minnesota Orchestra

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.

Minnesota-based musicians Cléa Galhano (recorder), Joan Griffith (guitar and cavaquinho), and David Schmalenberger (percussion) perform a vibrant Brazilian repertoire, highlighting diverse musical styles shaped by African and Portuguese influences.

FREE Courtroom Concert: Alma Brasileira

Landmark Center

KidsJam Workshops are interactive programs that connect kids and families with community teaching artists to learn about the people, cultures, and musical traditions from around the world as they make music, move, and enjoy other creative activities.

KidsJam: Alma Brasileira

FamilyJam builds on the success of KidsJam workshops – interactive programs that connect kids and families with community teaching artists to learn about the people, cultures, and musical traditions from around the world as they make music, move, and enjoy other creative activities. FamilyJam will take KidsJam programs into the weekend, where kids and families will experience a short 25-30 minute concert in one of Landmark Center’s historic spaces, followed by instrument demos and other hands-on experiences with the musicians in the Schubert Club Music Museum. In keeping with Schubert Club’s goal of offering free tickets to children and students, FamilyJam will be FREE for all participants, however advance registration will be required through Schubert Club’s website.

FamilyJam: Alma Brasileira

Charles Lazarus and an all-star band return with one of the Twin Cities’ most beloved holiday traditions. Bursting with toe-tapping arrangements of seasonal favorites, this joyful concert brings together top-notch local musicians for extra swing, extra sparkle and a distinctly jazzy holiday vibe. Now celebrating its tenth year, this family-favorite fills the hall with warmth, rhythm and cheer—and it sells out fast, so grab your tickets early!

Drummer

David Schmalenberger

Events

Upcoming events

Apr 16, 2026

FREE Courtroom Concert: Alma Brasileira · Schubert Club

16 - 17 Apr, 2026

KidsJam: Alma Brasileira · Schubert Club

Apr 18, 2026

FamilyJam: Alma Brasileira · Schubert Club

Dec 20, 2026

Merry & Bright · Minnesota Orchestra

Past events

Dec 14, 2025

Merry & Bright · Minnesota Orchestra

Dec 15, 2024

Merry & Bright · Minnesota Orchestra

About

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