Dancer

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.

EPSG:4326

Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling

Kleinhans Music Hall

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

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

Powerhouse trumpeter Byron Stripling brings Harlem’s famed musical hot spots like The Cotton Club and The Savoy to life in this swingin’ night of musical sensations that focuses on Harlem’s heyday — a time when Duke Ellington’s orchestra was the house band, and Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald and Ethel Waters showcased the classics! Vocalist Carmen Bradford and tap dancer Leo Manzari join Stripling in bringing “Uptown” to the San Diego waterfront.

Dancer

Leo Manzari

Events

Past events

Jan 31, 2026

Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling · Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra

8 - 10 Nov, 2024

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

About

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